Chiropody or Podiatry?

We are often asked ''What is the difference between Chiropody and Podiatry?'' . The simple answer is that Podiatry and Chiropody are the same profession.

Podiatry is the modern term, introduced in the UK in 1993 as an internationally recognised name for a foot specialist and is a constantly evolving profession.

What do Podiatrists do?

Podiatrists are health professionals who specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot and lower limb. We are also qualified to administer local anaesthetics and supply certain prescription only medications.

Podiatrists receive a minimum of 3 years degree training in Podiatric Medicine, including 1000 hours of practical experience, and many continue their studies beyond graduation to become specialists in their chosen field of podiatry. Some train to become Podiatric surgeons or enter academia and research.

Podiatry specialisms include biomechanics, musculoskeletal and sports podiatry, diabetes, vascular podiatry, paediatrics, dermatology or rheumatology.

Chiropodists and Podiatrists are registered with the HCPC, a statutory register of health and care professionals in the UK whose purpose is to protect the public by keeping a register of health & care professionals who meet certain standards of education, training and practice.

When looking for someone to care for your feet, you can easily check they are on this register by visiting https://www.hcpc-uk.org/ and typing their surname into the search-bar. This will show they meet professional standards.

Watch this short video below by the College of Podiatry for more information about podiatry.