State registered podiatrists have to complete a three or four year full time undergraduate course, which leads to a BSc (Honours) degree in podiatry. They are registered with the Health Professionals Council.
They receive core medical training by studying anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, general medicine and microbiology. They then go on to more advanced and specialized training in the examination, diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the feet.
Clinics Include-
Nail surgery
Nail problems such as ingrown toenails can be corrected by either partial or total removal of the nail plate. This relatively painless procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic.
Biomechanical Assessment
A biomechanical assessment is an examination of the lower limb, spine and gait. It is used in the treatment of common biomechanical problems such as flat feet, heel pain, arch pain, painful bunions, ankle instability, knee pain and lower back pain. Often these conditions are treated by the provision of insoles and orthoses.
Steroid Injections
Steroid injections are useful in the foot for, heel pain, neuromas and joint pain (arthritis) and are normally administered with a local anaesthetic.
Verrucae (Cryotherapy)
Verrucae are caused by a viral infection that can be picked up in swimming pools, gyms and other communal areas.
Cryotherapy is the non-surgical alternative for removing verrucae – a painful wart-like condition on the sole of the foot. A course of treatment may be required – however, it is a painless alternative to more traditional methods of treatment, and can be performed on both adults and adolescents.
Childrens Foot Problems
Children’s feet undergo many changes as they grow. Screening at an early age for children with possible foot problems is important to minimize the long term affects of any foot condition. Children’s foot problems include pigeon toes, tripping, flat feet, skin lesions pain and congenital deformities.