Chiropody & Podiatry
Chiropody is the treatment of the foot and nails by specially trained therapists. The most common problems that are treated with chiropody are:
- Hard skin (callus and corns)
- Plantar warts (verrucas)
- Blisters, splinters and ulcers
- Painful toenails including in growing toenails
- Hard or thick toenails, black nails and discoloured nails
- The cutting of nails when people have difficulty reaching them
Chiropodists also help to look after diabetic's feet. People with diabetes are especially at risk of foot problems and benefit from regular check ups with a State Registered Chiropodist.
Podiatry is a further qualification obtained by some State Registered Chiropodists enabling them to offer effective treatments for painful feet due to fallen arches and other similar problems, collectively termed "bio-mechanical problems of the feet". Often specially made insoles, known as "orthotics", are individually prepared for people to wear which help ease the discomfort of standing and walking.