What does a podiatrist do?
Podiatrists can be thought of as a type of foot doctor. They can give you and your family advice on how to look after your feet and what type of shoes to wear. They can also treat and alleviate day-to-day foot problems including:
How can a podiatrist help?
You may want to see a podiatrist for advice and treatment if you have painful feet, thickened or discoloured toenails, cracks or cuts in the skin, growths such as warts, scaling or peeling on the soles or any other foot-related problem.
Podiatrists can also supply orthotics, which are tailor-made insoles, padding and arch supports to relieve arch or heel pain. You put the orthotic device into your shoe to re-align your foot, take pressure off vulnerable areas of your foot or simply to make your shoes more comfortable.
Even if your feet are generally in good condition, you might consider having a single session of podiatry to have the hard skin on your feet removed, toenails clipped, to find out if you’re wearing the right shoes (take your shoes with you for specific advice on footwear) or just to check that you’re looking after your feet properly.
What’s the difference between a podiatrist and a chiropodist?
There’s no difference between a podiatrist and chiropodist, but podiatrist is a more modern name.
What happens at the consultation?
At your first consultation, the podiatrist will usually cut your toenails, remove any hard skin and check your feet for other minor problems such as corns, calluses or verrucas. Usually, any minor problems that are picked up can be treated on the spot. It’s usually completely painless (even pleasant) and takes between 30 and 60 minutes.
Can I get podiatry on the NHS?
Yes, you can. If you want NHS podiatry treatment, the first step is to see your GP, practice nurse or health visitor. They can refer you to an NHS podiatrist if you qualify for free treatment.
Podiatry is available on the NHS free of charge in most parts of the UK, although availability will vary from region to region.
Each case is assessed individually. This means that whether or not you receive free treatment will depend on how serious your condition is and how quickly it needs to be treated.
If you have diabetes, arthritis or blood circulation problems, you’ll be given priority for NHS treatment by a chiropodist or podiatrist. Otherwise, you’ll be put on a waiting list.
If your condition is not affecting your health or mobility – such as a verruca that looks ugly but doesn’t hurt when you walk – you probably won’t be eligible for NHS podiatry.
Can I see a podiatrist at home?
If your foot problems are so bad that you find it difficult to walk, it may be possible to arrange for a chiropodist to come to your home. Tell your GP if you need to have a home visit and they should be able to find you a suitable chiropodist or podiatrist.
Can I see a podiatrist privately?
If free NHS treatment isn’t available, your GP can still refer you to a local clinic for private treatment, but you will have to pay.
You can also book an appointment with a podiatrist directly, without a GP’s referral.
You can use The Society of Chiropodists & Podiatrists' website to find a local podiatrist or chiropodist.
How can I make sure the podiatrist is qualified?
Anyone who calls themselves a podiatrist or chiropodist must register with the Health Professions Council (HPC).
Go to the HPC website to check if your podiatrist or chiropodist is registered.
It’s also worth checking that they are a member of one of the following organisations:
How much does private podiatry cost?
Private fees can vary depending on where you live and the podiatrist’s experience. Ring a few local podiatry clinics to check their prices.
