Private podiatry clinic in Harley Street, London

Podiatry and chiropody are technically identical fields of medicine that focus on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions related to the feet and lower limbs. However, the term "podiatry" is more commonly used in the United States, while "chiropody" is primarily used in the United Kingdom and some other Commonwealth countries. Both podiatrists and chiropodists are trained healthcare professionals who specialise in foot care, including treating foot injuries, infections, and deformities and providing orthotic interventions.

A podiatrist is a medical professional specialising in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions related to the feet and lower limbs. They are trained to provide comprehensive foot care, including treating foot and ankle injuries and infections, managing foot deformities, prescribing orthotics, and performing surgical procedures when necessary. Podiatrists also play a crucial role in educating patients about proper foot care techniques and promoting overall foot health. 

After a treatment session with a podiatrist, it's generally possible to resume work. However, depending on your specific condition and the type of treatment you received, you may need to take certain precautions. This could include wearing special footwear or avoiding strenuous physical activity. Some procedures may require you to rest your foot for a few days to promote a speedy recovery. It's always advisable to consult with your podiatrist for personalised advice on how to proceed after treatment.

Most podiatry treatments are minimally invasive and relatively painless. However, depending on the specific procedure and individual pain tolerance, mild discomfort or soreness may be experienced post-treatment. It is best to consult with your podiatrist to discuss any potential pain management options or aftercare instructions.

In addition to treating the feet, podiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat conditions related to the ankles and lower extremities. They are skilled in addressing common conditions such as sprains, fractures, and tendonitis in these areas. Furthermore, they are capable of handling the complications of systemic diseases that may affect the feet and lower extremities, such as diabetes and arthritis. 

Although it is typical for some individuals to consult their GP before receiving podiatry treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary to schedule a podiatry appointment. Many podiatrists, who are independent health care professionals, accept self-referrals, allowing individuals to directly book an appointment without needing a referral from their GP. This allows patients to receive direct care from qualified professionals. However, we advise that you check with your healthcare provider or insurance company for any specific requirements or recommendations.

The type of anaesthesia used during your podiatric treatment will depend on the specific procedure being performed and your individual needs. Your podiatrist will explain the options available to you and help determine the most appropriate form of anaesthesia. They will take into consideration factors such as the complexity of the procedure, your medical history, and any preferences or concerns you may have. Usually, if it's a minor surgery or a simple procedure, local anaesthesia will be sufficient. However, if it's a more complex or invasive surgery, your podiatrist may recommend general anaesthesia to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

Gait analysis is important in diagnosing and treating injuries because it provides valuable insights into how a person walks or runs. By analysing the movement patterns, timing, and coordination of various body parts during gait, healthcare professionals can identify any abnormalities or imbalances that may be contributing to the injury. This information helps them develop targeted treatment plans and interventions to address the root cause of the injury and optimise rehabilitation outcomes.

The number of appointments required for your podiatric assessment can vary depending on the complexity of your condition and the treatment plan recommended by your podiatrist. Typically, a comprehensive assessment can be completed in one to two appointments. However, if further diagnostic tests or specialised treatments are necessary, additional appointments may be needed. 

The coverage for podiatric assessment and treatment may vary depending on your insurance policy. It is recommended that you review your policy or contact your insurance company directly to determine if they will cover the cost of your treatment. Additionally, some insurance companies may require a referral from your general practitioner (GP) before approving coverage for podiatric services.