At Poized Podiatry, a leading West Kirby podiatrist practice, we frequently get asked this simple but important question. With so many people searching for a podiatrist in West Kirby or Wirral, it’s crucial to understand the distinction—or rather, the lack of it—between these two titles.
What’s the Difference Between a Chiropodist and a Podiatrist?
In short, there’s no real difference! The terms “chiropodist” and “podiatrist” are often used interchangeably to describe a healthcare professional specialising in foot health. Both treat a variety of foot-related issues and provide essential routine footcare to maintain overall well-being.
A Brief History: From Chiropody to Podiatry
The term “chiropody” has been around for centuries and was traditionally used to refer to foot care specialists. In the UK, chiropodists have been treating feet for a long time, helping people with everything from routine care to more serious medical foot conditions.
In recent years, however, the term “podiatrist” has gained more prominence. Today, podiatry is the term widely used to refer to the profession, and podiatrist has become the recognised professional title. This shift reflects the evolving training and expertise required in the field of foot health. Podiatry incorporates a broader range of medical knowledge, including surgical interventions, and is recognised internationally as the standard title for professionals in foot care.
At Poized Podiatry, we refer to our lead podiatrist, Lucinda Mercer, as a podiatrist due to a higher level of training required to provide advanced foot and ankle care that go beyond the traditional chiropody model.
What Does a Chiropodist or Podiatrist Do?
Whether you call us a Wirral chiropody clinic, or Wirral podiatry clinic, this is essentially the same: diagnosing and treating a wide variety of foot disorders, ensuring your feet stay in healthy, pain-free condition. Whether you need routine footcare or more advanced treatment, our lead podiatrist is trained to help you.
Why Visit a Podiatrist or Chiropodist in West Kirby or Wirral?
Regardless of the title, seeing a Wirral podiatrist is essential for maintaining healthy feet. The services provided by our podiatrists in West Kirby include not only the treatment of common conditions like those listed above but also more specialised services such as:
- Biomechanical assessments: Evaluating your gait and posture to correct walking or running issues
- Orthotic fittings: Custom foot insoles to correct alignment and reduce foot strain
- Surgical interventions: For conditions that require more intensive treatment, such as deformities or severe pain
- Sports injuries: Offering specialised care for athletes or active individuals who experience foot and ankle injuries
- Diabetic foot care: Regular monitoring and treatment to prevent complications from diabetes
Should You See a Podiatrist or Chiropodist?
The short answer is yes! Whether you prefer the term chiropodist or podiatrist, you should visit a foot care professional regularly to maintain the health of your feet. Regular check-ups can prevent minor issues from becoming major ones, ensuring you stay mobile and pain-free.
At Poized Podiatry, our expert podiatrist, Lucinda Mercer is here to provide the full spectrum of care, from routine footcare to advanced treatments, all tailored to your individual needs. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition or simply need a professional opinion on your foot health, we’re here to help.