therapies

Chiropody / Podiatry

Therapists- Linda Hawkins, Hiren Patel

Most people have foot problems at some time in their lives, and many of these can be helped by chiropody treatment. Chiropody / Podiatry is the field of healthcare devoted to the study and treatment of disorders of the lower limb, mainly the foot and ankle. 
We also help diagnose problems so that a patient can provide the right self care.

Good foot health is especially important for people with other health problems such as diabetes, poor circulation and rheumatism. These problems can make self treatment, even cutting their own nails, unwise. Chiropodists are trained to help them. You do not need a doctor’s referral to see a Chiropodist.

Common foot problems include:

• hard skin, corns, cracked heels and calluses
• painful and in-growing nails
• Skin problems and fungal infections, e.g. athlete’s foot
• heel and foot pains
• verrucae
• walking problems (gait) and sport injuries (relating to the lower limb)

Normal appointments last about 30 minutes and costs £25. This includes observation, treatment and advice. The first appointment  includes taking a full medical history. Special treatments such as nail surgery may need longer, and are costed individually.

Treatments regularly provided include:

• nail cutting
• hard skin reduction (debridement) and temporary padding.
• a range of treatments for verrucae and common nail disorders
• footcare advice: shoes and skincare
• supplying and modifying various items, such as toe separators

Other services:

• diabetic foot assessment
• nail surgery
• simple or modified insoles

The two names Chiropody/Podiatry may seem confusing. This is due to recent changes in qualification and registration for the profession. A three year training course now leads to a degree in Podiatric Medicine and registration with the H.P.C. Chiropody/Podiatry is now a protected title and only those registered with the H.P.C. are entitled to its use.

Both Chiropody / Podiatry professionals at the Complementary Health Centre are HPC registered.

Therapists

Linda Hawkins
I am a member of The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists, one of the largest professional bodies representing chiropody in the UK. This provides me with professional development, and helps with regular training.

At the centre I can provide a wide range of chiropody treatments from nail cutting to nail surgery. I try to promote a holistic approach to patient’s needs, working with other centre member when required.  I am qualified in the use of Local Anaesthetics. I can also perform Diabetic Foot Assessments on request.

You don’t need a doctor's referral to consult me. However if a surgical procedure is needed, I may ask you to check with your GP.

I am available on the following days:
• Monday 9.30 am to 1 pm
• Tuesday 9:30 am to 3 pm
• Friday    9:30 am to 4 pm
• Saturday 9:30 am to 5 pm

Emergency appointments can sometimes be arranged at other times.

Since qualifying from the London foot Hospital in 1986, I have worked in the NHS and private practice. I joined the Complementary Health Centre in 1994.

I have worked in a wide range of clinics and environments. Chiropody has enabled me to work in hospitals (Diabetic clinics and ward rounds), and with the Community Services,  including special nail surgery sessions and visiting disabled patients in their own homes. My current work outside the centre includes Housing Trust Clinics, Almshouses, home visits and Age Concern clinics.

Hiren Patel
I graduated from the University of Salford in 1999 with an Honours Degree in Podiatric Medicine. I initially worked for several NHS Trusts in London where I ran nail surgery, biomechanics and Diabetic clinics.

After leaving the NHS in 2002 I began work in the private sector and am experienced in all aspects of Podiatry. My area of specialisation is Diabetic Foot management, ingrowing nail treatment/surgery and Verruccae treatments. I became an associate at the practice in 2004.