What is Podiatry/Chiropody?

Feet walk on average 4000 to 6000 steps a day and carry us the equivalent of five times round the earth in an average lifetime.

Between 75% and 80% of the adult population have some form of foot problem at any time, so i ts time to start looking after your feet...!

Podiatry is a field of healthcare devoted to the study and treatment of disorders of the foot , ankle , and sometimes knee , leg and hip (collectively known as the lower extremity ). Podiatrists receive core medical training by studying anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, general medicine and microbiology. They then go on to more advanced and specialised training in the examination, diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the feet.

A Podiatrist is a health professional who deals with the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of medical conditions of the feet and lower limbs. Their specialist skills are used to treat minor infections/ailments, defects and injuries, as well as conditions and symptoms relating to other major health disorders to maintain normal mobility and independence.

Please visit these links for more information:

• www.feetforlife.org - Society of Chiropodist and Podiatrists
• www.hpc-uk.org - Health Professions Council

What will happen on my first visit?

At your first consultation with Hannah she will take a full medical history, and she will need to be aware of any medication you may be taking. The more she knows, the more she can help you and your foot problem.

Hannah will assess your condition and any treatment will be discussed with in full to ensure you are happy.

Remember: Podiatry should be your first port of call if you have a foot problem & you do not need a referral from your GP to seek a private consultation. (If your GP needs to be involved Hannah will contact them after your initial assessment.)

So, if you are suffering from any problems with your feet, ankles or if they simply need some TLC, then arrange an appointment with her for a professional opinion and only the best treatment.

As a Podiatrist, Hannah provides a medical service for the feet and foot related conditions, and so whilst it is not a cosmetic treatment, your feet will look and feel much better after her care.

How many sessions will be required?

This will be discussed at your initial appointment, to ensure you are completely happy with the treatment plan offered, as it will very much depend on what your presenting problem is.

As a guide, routine foot care (nails/corns/callus) is recommended every 6-8 weeks, however some patients prefer to just book as and when they feel they require a treatment.

Who is a Typical Client?

The role of a Podiatrist is to assess, diagnose and treat abnormalities and diseases of the lower limb. Podiatrists treat people of all ages and from all walks of life. For example:

• The elderly often struggle to self-care, which is complicated when due to ageing and arthritis they can develop deformity, callus, thickened nails etc.
• Children sometimes have pains in their legs or feet as they grow or have problems walking.
• People with Diabetes may have problems with the circulation or sensation in their feet, which makes self-care difficult and requires monitoring.
• Sports men and women often suffer from injuries to their legs and feet, and could benefit from biomechanical assessment.
• People wanting advice - some people do not need treatment but just want advice about footwear or foot health.

These are just a few examples, but because Podiatry is a constantly evolving profession, it enables Podiatrists to treat a vast array of foot and lower limb problems. For more information see Hannah's own website www.podiatryoxfordshire.co.uk