What is Podiatry?
Trying to explain to people what podiatry is often leaves a blank expression and
is always followed by what’s that? The normal and basic reply is a “foot doctor” to
which we still get a confused face, so here is a quick little guide into what Podiatrists
do and how it can benefit your health.
A podiatrist is a health professional dedicated to the study, diagnosis and treatment
of the disorders of the foot, ankle and lower leg. We specialise in Diabetes,
Rheumatoid, and Neurologic disorders affecting the lower limb. We also help to keep
people mobile, relieve pain and treat infections for patients of all ages.
We also provide Chiropody treatments for:
- Callus (hard skin)
- Toe Nail Cutting
- Corns
- Verruca’s
- Fungal Infections
- Athletes Foot
- Blisters
- Bunions
- Chilblains
- Sweaty Feet
- Toe Deformities
- Ingrown Nails
As Podiatrists we have a certificate in the administration of Local Anaesthetic and
can perform nail surgery for patients with painful ingrown toenails.
We are trained for screening diabetic patients and assessing their level of risk to help
educate and prevent complications with their feet. We also assess rheumatoid and
neurological presentations which can create complications within the feet.
We also provide opinion via complete Biomechanical assessments on patient’s
musculoskeletal systems and their gait cycle (walking patterns). Usually this
assessment is done if the patient has any pain in their lower limb or feet. Patients
who often benefit include the elderly, children, adults, teenagers, diabetics, runners,
people with rheumatoid conditions or sports injuries, etc., the list is endless.
After we have done a biomechanical assessment we will personally design and
develop a treatment plan, often including a simple insole (Orthotic) which can fit into
your own shoes to help alleviate or stop pain occurring in your everyday activities.
Orthotics can be used for the treatment of:
- Bunions
- Heel Pain
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Metatarsal Fractures
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Flat Feet
- Shin Splints
- Ankle & Knee Pain
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Sports Injuries
- Children’s Problems
- Iliotibial Band Syndrome
- Support
- Relieve a Painful Corn
- Back Pain
- Any type of Foot Pain
Should you wish to visit one of our Podiatrists/chiropodists please contact us at either our Liverpool, Wirral or Chester clinics. alternatively for further information please visit our chiropody site on www.liverpoolchiropody.co.uk
Amanda Girling
Podiatrist
BSc (Hons) MChS SRCh HPC