The Role
Podiatrists are healthcare professionals that have been trained to diagnose and treat foot and lower limb conditions. Podiatrists provide assessment, evaluation, and foot care for a wide range of patients, which range from low risk to long-term acute conditions. Many patients fall into high-risk categories such as those with diabetes, rheumatism, cerebral palsy, peripheral arterial disease, and peripheral nerve damage. Podiatrists can specialise in sports injuries, diabetes etc.
Podiatrists can become First Contact Practitioners.
Benefits for the Practice
- Reducing pressure on GP
Benefits for the Patient
- Diagnostic and management of conditions
- Preventing condition-related complication of lower limbs and feet
Training & Development
The most popular way into podiatry is through an approved degree course or a Masters degree in podiatry. It usually takes two to three years full time and over four years part-time. Once you’ve successfully completed your degree you’ll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) before you can start practising. The other option is to apply for a degree apprenticeship.
