A Career In Podiatry

What is Podiatry? 

Podiatrists are medical specialists who have been trained to assess, diagnose and treat conditions related to the feet, ankle, lower limb and their associated structures. 

Fact: Podiatrists were previously known as Chiropodists until 1993 when the name changed to Podiatrist, which is internationally recognised. The term Chiropodist is sometimes still mentioned but there is no difference between the two.  

What type of patients does a Podiatrist treat? 

Patients will be from all ages and backgrounds. They may often be children or the elderly. There may be more specialised clinics which undertake high-risk foot management, nail surgery or Musculo Skeletal clinics.  

Where does a Podiatrist work? 

Podiatrists will work in a variety of health care settings, often in close association with other health care professionals. 

They are often based in hospitals, community clinics, GP surgeries or within private practice.  

Whilst working in these settings they may be part of a multi-disciplinary team which may include nurses, physiotherapists, doctors and orthotists. 

Some Podiatrists will also undertake home visits for patients who are unable to attend clinics due to health issues.  

What responsibilities does a Podiatrist have? 

• Assess, diagnose and treat abnormalities and disease affecting the feet and lower limbs 
• Provide treatment for high-risk patient groups such as the elderly who are at increased risk of amputation 
• Give advice and make referrals to other health care professionals 
• Carry out surgical techniques to treat foot issues such as nail surgery  
• Prescribe and fit orthotics 
• Deliver foot health education 
• Undertake administrative duties, such as stock ordering, good record keeping, ensure good working order of equipment 

What skills do you need to become a Podiatrist? 

• Holds an understanding and knowledge of Science, particularly biology, anatomy and chemistry 
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written 
• Practical skills, including manual dexterity  
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team  
• Able to use own initiative 
• Problem solving and reasoning skills  
• Good listener  
• Excellent time management and organisation skills 
• Good IT skills