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Podiatrists (or chiropodists)
A podiatrist and a chiropodist are the same thing. Registered podiatrists (or chiropodists) are trained in all aspects of care for the feet and lower limbs.
If you are having problems with your feet and think that you need treatment from a podiatrist (or chiropodist), you should discuss this with your GP. They may be able to arrange free treatment for you on the NHS. However, there may be a waiting list. Also, as each case is assessed individually, whether or not you receive free treatment depends on how serious your condition is and what the risk factors are.
Using an NHS podiatrist (or chiropodist)
In Newcastle, the NHS Podiatry Department is a community-based service which provides footcare to people living in Newcastle. There are clinics at various locations throughout the city.
You must be referred to the Podiatry Department by your GP. Once you have been referred, you may initially be invited to an introductory presentation where you will be given advice and guidance on self-care and on the service. At this stage, you may decide that you don't need the service, or you may require a more detailed assessment where any future treatments can be planned and discussed.
Treatment options may include:
- Foot health advice for you and your carer
- Referral for foot surgery
- Referral for nail surgery
- A biomechanical assessment, which studies how you walk
- Appliance manufacture, such as providing bespoke insoles
- Footwear advice
- Treatment by Podiatry Assistants
- Treatment by Podiatrists
- Diabetes assessment
The time between your appointments will vary, depending on your individual foot conditions. This may mean that some people are seen only once a year, whilst others, who may be at risk of ulceration, are seen more regularly. Relatives or carers are welcome to attend appointments with you if you think you need some support.
Contact details for the Podiatry Department are given below. For more information, you could also visit their website.
Using a private podiatrist (or chiropodist)
If you want to pay privately for podiatry/chiropody treatment, you can ask your GP to recommend a local state registered podiatrist (or chiropodist). Alternatively, you can contact The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists for details of podiatrists in your area who are registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC). See below for their contact details, or visit their website. Remember to ask how much the treatment will cost before you agree to have it done.
Other useful information
Information NOW section Healthy feet
Contact Information
Podiatry Department
Geoffrey Rhodes Centre, Algernon Road, Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 2UZ.
Telephone : 0191 219 1812, Fax : 0191 219 1804.
The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists
1 Fellmonger's Path, Tower Bridge Road, London, SE1 3LY.
Telephone : 020 7234 8620, Fax : 0845 450 3721.
Article last updated December 5, 2011 9:19 pm
