What is a chiropodist?

A chiropodist is a health professional who is an expert in the diagnosis and care of health problems occurring on the foot.

What is a podiatrist? Is it the same as a chiropodist?

Podiatry is essentially the U.S. name for chiropody, and therefore you can expect the same services from a podiatrist as you would from a chiropodist. In fact, many U.K. practitioners have adopted the U.S. title.

Is there a governing body for chiropody practitioners?

In the U.K. registered chiropodists will belong to the Health Professionals Council. It is illegal for anyone to use the term "chiropodist" or "podiatrist" to refer to themselves without being registered, and as such they will be qualified to be a chiropody practitioner.

What is a Foot Health Practitioner?

The term Foot Health Practitioner covers any practitioner who does not qualify for the term "chiropodist". They are allowed to perform treatments on patients but must refer more complicated procedures to a registered chiropodist.

What are some of the functions performed by a chiropodist?

The most common procedures performed by a chiropodist include toe-cutting, removing calluses, skin treatment and advice on how to manage a condition. In-growing toenails are a common complaint, and the chiropodist will be able to offer advice on ongoing treatment until the problem has abated.

Will I need multiple sessions at the chiropodist?

Depending on the severity of the problem, you may be asked to come back to the chiropodist on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. This is particularly common in the case of in-growing toenails or in the treatment of veruccae. However, the treatments are unlikely to be painful, and tend to last under 30 minutes at a time.

Do I need a referral from a doctor to visit a chiropodist?

Most chiropodists in the U.K. act privately, whether from home or as part of a private clinic. There is therefore no referral required from a G.P.

What will happen at my first appointment at a chiropodist?

Your first chiropodist appointment will usually begin with your medical history being examined. The chiropodist will ask you about any other medical conditions that you have had, and whether you are taking any medication. Then they will talk to you about the problems you are having with your feet, and examine the problem.

How long does a chiropody session take?

Most chiropody sessions last around 30 minutes. Longer procedures could take up to an hour, but chiropodists rarely perform any treatments longer than that. Severe problems will be treated at a hospital instead of at a chiropodist's office.

How much will a Chiropodist cost?

Of course, the cost of a chiropodist's treatment will vary depending on the clinic and the number of sessions required. For a ball-park figure, you should expect a standard appointment to cost around £25. Simpler appointments, such as nail cutting and verrucae treatments will range from £12-15. Some chiropodists will have a set fee for a number of appointments. A home visit tends to be around £30.