Question 1

What is Podiatry and a Podiatrist?

Accepted Answer

Podiatry or podiatric medicine and surgery, is a branch of medicine devoted to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of the foot and ankle and lower limb. The healthcare professional is known as a podiatrist. 
A Podiatrist’s primary aim is to improve the mobility, independence and quality of life for their patients. Imagine how amazing that feels!

Podiatrists specialise in the foot, ankle and leg, leading the patient care through the whole journey including prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Question 2

What is the difference between a Podiatrist and chiropodist?

Accepted Answer

Podiatry is the global term for medical practitioners of the feet. Our official title with the HCPC is Chiropodist/Podiatrist as there is no difference between the two professions. Podiatry is the main professional term that has been used for the past few decades and we will normally refer to ourselves as Podiatrists. We carry out all the functions that you would associate with a Chiropodist. Having undergone extensive medical training, we are able to treat a wide range of footcare issues as well as being qualified to administer local anaesthetic and carry out minor surgery where necessary.

Question 3

What sort of assessment do I need and will I be treated in the first appointment?

Accepted Answer

We currently offer 3 types of assessments:

New Patient Assessment and treatment

New patients will be seen for an initial assessment to determine what their concerns are and what treatments are required. This will include complete foot health assessments - neurological and vascular, which will check nerve and blood supply to the feet. From this a diagnosis and treatment plan will be given and an initial routine treatment will be provided where clinically appropriate.

Biomechanical Assessment

Specialist biomechanical assessment of foot & ankle. Assessment of upper limb, knee and hip included where clinically appropriate. 
Tailored advice and exercises may be given and the recommendation of orthotics/insoles where appropriate.  We stock a wide range of insoles and orthotics to cover the most common problems. Where stock is not available, your Orthoses can be ordered for a £10 non returnable deposit.  Once the Orthoses arrives we will organise a fitting appointment as required.

If you already use insoles/orthotics please bring them with you to the assessment.

Please note we DO NOT use digitally assisted Gait analysis or have treadmills .  We do not take plaster casts unless previously discussed with our Orthotist.

Biomechanical Assessment and Routine Treatment

Combination of both a full biomechanical assessment and initial routine treatment.

Please Note: For all new patients we obtain a medical and surgical patient history, including medications prescribed which will be recorded at the first appointment

Question 4

What is an Ingrowing toenail and do i need nail surgery?

Accepted Answer

An ingrown toenail is a condition where the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the skin of the toe, causing pain, redness, swelling, and even infection. This can occur due to improper nail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, or genetics. We can try and maintain the nail by regular conservative treatment.

Severe ingrown toenails may require medical treatment such as toenail removal or antibiotics to prevent infection.
This procedure is most commonly performed for ingrown toenail treatment and can be either a partial or total toenail removal, patients will always be advised what is best for them and will be given all the information ahead of any procedures taking place.

Pricing includes x1 follow up dressing appointments and a small supply of dressings.

A Initial consultation appointment is required for all/suspected ingrown toenails. All option’s will be discussed and a treatment plan will be put in place weather it may be conservative treatment or nail surgery

50% deposit is required at the time of booking for the nail surgery/s if required.

Question 5

How long will my treatment last?

Accepted Answer

The time between treatments is varied depending on what sort of treatment you have. We will discuss and give you all the information regarding what treatment you require at our initial assessment.

Question 6

Why are my toenails becoming thick and discoloured?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, thick and discoloured toenails are caused by a nail fungus, the same fungus that creates athlete’s foot. Other times, this problem could be caused by receiving trauma to the nails. If you think you may have a problem with your feet, don't hesitate to contact us and seek help from a professional.

MIRFIELD PODIATRY AND CHIROPODY CLINIC

Frequently asked questions