Most people have foot problems at some time in their lives, and many of these can be helped
by chiropody / podiatry treatment. This is the field of healthcare devoted to the study and
treatment of disorders of 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 or rheumatism. These problems can make self-treatment, even
cutting their own nails, difficult. You do not need a doctor’s referral to see a Podiatrist.

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. This can include taking a full medical history,

treatment and advice. Special treatments such as nail surgery may need longer.

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. Only those registered with the H.C.P.C. are entitled to its use.

All Chiropody / Podiatry professionals at the Complementary Health Centre are registered
with the Health and Care Professions Council (H.C.P.C.).