Podiatry
Podiatry is the specialised branch of medicine dedicated to the study, diagnosis and treatment of foot, ankle and leg conditions. Our expert podiatrists and Foot Health Professionals offer a wide range of services aimed at addressing most foot-related issues and promoting an active lifestyle.
Our podiatrists and Foot Health Professionals utilise their extensive training, state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to provide you with personalised care to help you look after one of the most important parts of your body: your feet.
What do podiatrists treat?
Podiatrists are qualified to treat people with medical conditions that can affect the feet, including:
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Bunions
- Neuropathies
- Multiple sclerosis
- Cerebral palsy & strokes
- Heart conditions and circulatory disorders
- Skin complaints such as eczema and psoriasis
Healthy feet can also present with problems, including:
- Undiagnosed foot pain
- Hard skin and calluses
- Corns and verrucas
- Ingrown, involuted or thickened nails
- Fungal nail infections and Athlete’s foot
- Cracked skin
- Heel pain and plantar fasciopathy/plantar fasciitis
- Tendon problems
- Sports injuries
Diagnosis of foot problems
Our podiatrists and Foot Health Professionals will take a detailed medical history in order to understand your presenting complaint. They will then examine you. Depending on the foot problem they may look closely at your feet, observe your feet and legs on movement (biomechanical assessment), inspect your footwear and perform other special diagnostic tests such as Doppler scanning, neurological screening and pulse and blood pressure measurements. This comprehensive approach allows the practitioner to formulate a diagnosis and treatment plan, which will be explained to you.
Treatment of foot problems
Treatment and management modalities will vary depending on what the problem with your foot is. It may include general foot care, which involves the reduction of hard skin, calluses and corns and expert cutting of nails. Taping and strapping, foot mobilisation techniques, exercise prescription, creams, advice on footwear and provision of custom insoles are other common methods used. Our podiatrists also use low-level laser therapy (LLLP) and shockwave therapy for certain acute and chronic conditions. When necessary, a multi-disciplinary approach is adopted, with referrals made to other appropriate health care professionals such as your doctor, a physiotherapist or an osteopath.
Looking after your feet
Beyond addressing existing foot issues, podiatry emphasises the importance of regular check-ups and maintenance. Routine foot care appointments can prevent potential problems from developing and ensure your feet remain in optimal condition. Moreover, our expert podiatrists and Foot Health Practitioners can advise on proper footwear choices, gait analysis and exercise routines that promote good foot health and reduce the risk of future complications.
Click the links to learn more about Sarah, Rachael and Gail, our podiatrist and Foot Health Professionals. For more information or to book an appointment please call reception on 01423 797800.
