

Is There a Difference Between a Chiropodist and a Podiatrist?

chiropodist and podiatrist

Is There a Difference Between a Chiropodist and a Podiatrist?

Both Chiropodists and Podiatrists take care of the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of the lower limb. They are qualified experts who treat people suffering from diabetes, arthritis, nail surgery, and sport-related injuries. They are also capable of carrying out biomechanical assessments and prescribe orthotics. This works on people of all ages; however, it plays a vital role in supporting older people and helps them stay mobile and independent.

The term “Chiropodist” has been replaced with “Podiatrist” in Australia since 1977. Before this, Chiropodists were an unrestricted practice; however, the name was changed once the decision to register all practitioners was made. This was mainly to avoid confusion.

The term chiropody is still used in the U.K and other countries. However, there is no difference between podiatrists and chiropodists, and individuals who have a BSc Podiatry degree can refer to themselves as either podiatrists or chiropodists. Over the decades, this profession has evolved significantly.

Depending on where you study, a podiatry degree takes 3-4 years and involves classroom studies like anatomy, pharmacology, physiology, and clinical placements as well.

Ultimately, Podiatrists and Chiropodists are registered by the Health and Care Professions Council. They are obligated to perform only evidence-based medicine, assuring that you are in safe and capable hands.

What do Podiatrists do?

Podiatrists are affiliated with cutting nails, removing hard skin, and corn. These are, however, the primary and most essential aspects of the practice, and in reality, the scope of the practice expands each year. Several Podiatrists perform diabetic foot screenings, treat ulcers, carry out nail surgery, and treat musculoskeletal conditions as well. Meaning, Podiatrists can specialise in any of these particular areas.

They work in departments like rheumatology, diabetes & sports medicine, and orthopaedics, while some of them become Podiatric Surgeons. However, this requires a master’s degree and extensive training with a qualified podiatric surgeon and takes roughly 7-10 years.

Know When to Visit a Podiatrist

In addition to muscles, ligaments, and joints, a quarter of the bones in our body reside in the feet, making them extremely susceptible to injuries or diseases that can impact the entire body.

Podiatrists are experts in feet and ankles and will carry out biometric assessments as well. This is to examine how your strides might have an impact on other parts of your body, like your hips.

Podiatrists have extensive knowledge about the basic structure and movements of the feet and lower limbs. They can identify and diagnose foot conditions, recognise systemic health conditions that present with lower limb symptoms. This can vary from skin & nail conditions to pain in muscles and joints. After examination, the podiatrist will carry out a treatment plan based on your specific requirements. This may either include a long-term treatment or a short-term one based on your condition.

Signs That You Should Visit A Podiatrist

If you’re experiencing pain in your feet, have discoloured nails/skin, rashes, corn, foot odour, injuries, more extensive range of health conditions like diabetes or arthritis, frequent tripping, problem fitting in your shoes, heel pain or if you detect swelling, lumps, or redness in your feet you should consider a visit to the podiatrist immediately.

We offer tailored treatment options for flat feet and other foot-related problems. For information on our podiatry services, at Sydney Sports Podiatry, feel free to contact us at either one of our locations.

Thanks for reading,
Sydney Sports Podiatry
1300 474 306