Podiatry (formally known as Chiropody) is derived from the Greek words ‘podo’ meaning foot and ‘iatros’ meaning doctor. Podiatrists are responsible for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, injuries and defects of the foot and lower limb.
Podiatrists use a range of conventional medical assessment and diagnostic techniques within their practice. The treatments vary accordingly on the findings of the initial assessment and agreed management plan. Treatments for common conditions may nclude;
This includes care of nails, hard skin and corns on the feet to reduce pain and improve mobility.
Diabetic Foot care
Diabetes can affect the circulation and sensation to the lower limb. In some cases this may lead to ulceration, infection or loss of limb if allowed to progress beyond control.
A Diabetic Assessment includes circulatory and neurological examination, with appropriate advice on individual care to promote self-awareness and self-management.
This is an assessment of the lower limbs during the gait cycle
(How we walk or run). Normally walking and running are pain free.
However, this is not always the case and sometimes requires specialist advice to improve the situation. This may include footwear advice or the provision of Orthoses/Insoles.
Nail surgery may be necessary for an ingrown toenail; this is a small operation where a local anaesthetic injection is required. A comprehensive assessment is made prior to surgery to ensure suitable risk management, with follow up care and dressings to promote wound healing, pain relief and resolution of the problem.