The Difference between Podiatrists and Chiropodists (2024)

FAQs

The Difference between Podiatrists and Chiropodists? ›

Simply put, there is actually no technical difference between a chiropodist and a podiatrist in how they work; “chiropodist” and “chiropody” are the outdated terms for doctors that specialize in foot problems.

The answer is that there is no difference, the 2 words are used interchangeably to describe the same thing… Essentially both a chiropodist and podiatrist are a foot doctor which both look at foot problems and care for foot health.

There's no difference between a podiatrist and chiropodist, but podiatrist is a more modern name. A podiatrist (chiropodist) can help you with common foot problems, including ingrown toenails and bunions.

Confusion with chiropractors - In the 1950s and 60s, chiropractic medicine began to grow in popularity, and chiropodists were being confused with chiropractors. To ensure the confusion was evaded, it was decided they would embrace the term podiatry.

A chiropodist is a primary care professional trained to treat and prevent foot disorders exclusively. They provide patients with a thorough nail and skin care, conduct soft tissue surgeries using local anesthetics, and prescribe custom orthopedic footwear and ankle-foot orthoses.

Common problems that podiatrists treat include bunions, heel pain, ingrown toenails, and athlete's foot. Treatment methods used by podiatrists can vary depending on the specific condition but often include things like orthotic devices, braces, or surgery.

The truth is that foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons have the most comprehensive training available for nonsurgical treatment options and have the highest level of qualifications to diagnose the root cause of any foot or ankle problem.

A DPM has a comparable educational path to that of other types of doctors. With this level of schooling and training, it makes sense for them to earn more than many occupations while being on par with other physician specialists. There are also many sub-specializations within the specialty of podiatry.

A medical pedicure will include your qualified chiropodist taking care of your whole foot. It can start with a relaxing footbath, followed by cutting and filing your nails, paying attention to problems such as corns, buffing your feet and applying a soothing cream.

History of Podiatrists and Chiropodists

There is no significant difference between the two. In the United States, podiatrists were initially known as chiropodists, but the terminology has changed. Since the 1960s, all schools in the United States now award graduates with a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM).

Why do podiatrists cut toenails? ›

We use techniques to decrease ingrown nail formation and remove any that may be present safely and without pain. Proper nail care will improve how you walk and feel.

So what exactly is a chiropodist and what's the difference between podiatrist and chiropodist work? Simply put, there is actually no technical difference between a chiropodist and a podiatrist in how they work; “chiropodist” and “chiropody” are the outdated terms for doctors that specialize in foot problems.

Ancient Forms of Podiatry

Up until the 20^th century, doctors who focused on feet, ankles, and legs were called chiropodists and considered separate from other types of organized medicine. It was still considered a respectable profession and became more established by the 1800s.

Once the toe is completely numb a tourniquet is applied around the toe to prevent any bleeding during the procedure. Once the tourniquet is applied, the edge of the nail or the complete nail is removed. A special substance known as phenol is then applied over the nail bed to prevent regrowth.

How are cracked heels treated by a podiatrist? Treatment will depend upon the individual patient and will be subject to a thorough assessment. Treatment may involve the following; Debriding (removing) the hard skin around the heels with a scalpel.

ROUTINE CHIROPODY TREATMENT £48.00 (Up to 30 minutes)

Any hard skin, corns, calluses and cracked heels are professionally removed and treated. All areas are then expertly smoothed over, finishing the treatment with a soothing foot massage.

What do Chiropodists do? Chiropodists specialize in the recognition, assessment, treatment, and ongoing care of the foot – and are an essential member of the health care team. A chiropodist has many skills and techniques that help patients eliminate foot pain, gain mobility, and maintain healthy feet.

If you compared a Chiropodist/Podiatrist and Foot Health Practitioner in their clinic, you would probably notice very few differences. The key difference would seem to be our training. There are some good quality FHP courses available, and some not so rigorous.

A chiropodist, also called a podiatrist, is a medical professional who provides advice and treatment for feet, ankles, knees, and hips. A chiropodist is the healthcare professional who can diagnose and treat many types of foot problems.