The care and maintenance of the feet. This includes correction of gait, which causes biomechanical problems and the treatment of diseases of the foot.
A podiatrist is a specialist in the diagnosis & management of foot (and foot related) pathology. This can range from simple skin care e.g. corns and callosities, to the management of complex musculoskeletal disorders, which are caused or exacerbated by abnormal foot function. Historically the foot has been a neglected part of the body, with no one group of practitioners dedicated to its welfare. Formalised training in Chiropody was instituted in the early part of the twentieth century. The Podiatry profession evolved out of the development of these courses.
State registered Podiatrists undertake a three or four year degree in Podiatric Medicine. This involves the study of the medical sciences of Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Psychology, Medicine and Pathology as well as specialised Podiatric topics. There are around 7000 state registered Podiatrists in the UK. The professional and academic standards are set, monitored and maintained by The Health Professions council and The Society of Chiropodists & Podiatrists.
What is it good for?
The foot is a complex structure comprising 26 bones along with ligamentous, muscular, vascular and neurological structures. At some point in our lives 75% of us will experience some form of foot pathology. A Podiatrist will deal with these.
Some cases, such as corns, callus, ingrowing toenails and verrucae are obviously within the remit of a Podiatrist, and others are not. For instance, abnormal foot function can lead to other areas of the musculoskeletal system being overused. Therefore, after a biomechanical examination with gait analysis, it is possible to ascertain if, for example, the low back pain you experience during or after running is caused by the way your feet function.
Many systemic illnesses, (particularly diabetes) and/or the medication used to treat them can have an adverse effect on the feet. A Podiatrist can also advise you regarding this as well as providing tips for you to maintain the health of your feet so you can remain one of the 25% of the population who will never experience a foot problem.
What happens in a consultation?
This largely depends on what is wrong. A full medical history will be taken with physical examination of the lower limb. Further investigations e.g. X-rays will be ordered if necessary. A basic biomechanical evaluation (determining the alignment of joints & areas of relative strength/weakness, tightness/flexibility in the musculoskeletal system of the lower limb) may be undertaken if the history suggests. You may be referred for an in depth gait analysis involving digital video gait evaluation maybe with in-shoe computerised pressure testing equipment, where we work most of the week, at the Gait and Posture Centre in Harley street. www.gaitandposture.net
Following diagnosis of the problem, a treatment plan will be formulated. This may involve attention to skin or nail problems, exercises may be prescribed and footwear examined. The benefits of in-shoe devices called orthotics may be discussed, which can facilitate improved foot function. If your problem requires minor or more major foot surgery, we are surgically qualified Podiatrists so can offer surgical opinions and can arrange other investigations as necessary. We may suggest an onward referral to another specialist if it is deemed that is required.
Preparation and Requirements
None required.