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Thursday, 4 December 2008

Health and well-being

Health and well-being

Chiropodists

Basic hygiene and nail cutting may be all that's needed to keep your feet in good health, but if you develop a problem it's best to seek professional help from a chiropodist.

Getting professional help

Chiropodists, or podiatrists as they are sometimes called, are lower limb specialists who can diagnose and treat foot problems. They can also give you advice on how to prevent problems and how to take care of your feet.

You should seek help if you have a problem such as:

  • bunions
  • heel pain
  • corns
  • veruccae
  • ingrown toenails
  • athlete's foot

Older people with diabetes and those with bone deformities caused by arthritis are likely to need professional help from a chiropodist.

Common foot problems

You can find out more about common foot problems and their treatment on the NHS Choices website, with videos and tips on keeping your feet healthy.

Visiting an NHS chiropodist

You may be entitled to free NHS chiropody services, mainly for medical foot problems rather than routine care. These are available in a wide variety of places, including local health centres, day centres, and your local doctor's surgery.

If you suffer from diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or severe circulation problems, you will be a priority for NHS foot care, although it may not be available in all areas. You may be able to access the service directly or by referral from your doctor. To find out more, contact your local Primary Care Trust.

Private chiropodists

If free NHS treatment is not available in your area, your doctor might suggest visiting a private chiropodist. If you decide to choose one yourself, it is important to look out for the following qualifications or memberships to ensure you use a highly qualified practitioner:

  • MChS or FChS (Member or Fellow of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists)
  • FCPod(Surg) (Fellow of the Faculty of Surgery of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists)
  • DPodM (Diploma in Podiatric Medicine), now replaced by the BSc (Hons) Podiatry
  • registered with the Health Professions Council, you can check on their website

Private fees can vary according to location and the practitioner's experience - around £25 to £40 a session.

Finding a chiropodist

The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists' FeetforLife website provides advice on foot care and where to find your nearest state-registered chiropodist.

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