FAQs
FAQs from the Podiatry world of Chiltern wellbeing
FAQs
You do not need a referral to book an appointment. You can book a treatment at a time that suits you. Some private insurance providers will however require a referral from the GP.
A Podiatrist is a medical professional that specialises in the diagnosis, prevention, management and treatment of the lower limb (generally regarded as specialists in foot and ankle conditions). To become a Chiropodist/Podiatrist you will need to undertake a three/four year full-time degree in Podiatric Medicine and complete 1000 hours of supervised clinical practice. Podiatrists are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council.
Following booking your appointment, we firstly require a medical history form to be completed. This can be completed prior to the appointment, though if you have any questions do save them for the practitioner. Much like visiting the dentist, your consultation will be with a practitioner where you will sit in a podiatrists chair. The podiatrist will ask questions prior to any treatment being given, and if applicable, discuss the treatment options available. Treatment will not be undertaken until you have given consent. Dependent on your individual needs, a variety of different pieces of diagnostic equipment and tests may be used. Treatment can often commence during your initial assessment; however, this depends on the problem at hand and is not always the case.
If you have not already completed the secure, online medical history form, please bring a full list of any medication you are currently taking. If you are wearing nail varnish please remove it prior to your appointment. If you are arriving with an injury or for sporting purposes, please bring 2-3 pairs of regularly worn shoes. If you wear insoles or orthotics, please also bring these with you to your appointment.
Absolutely not. We are here to help!
A common concern. Conditions such as in growing toenails may be sensitive to treat, however great relief is typically experienced following the treatment of the painful area. In some cases anaesthetic may be used to make your treatment more comfortable.
At ChilternWellbeing we take diabetes seriously because Diabetes is the leading cause of ulceration and amputation. Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to:
- Peripheral neuropathy – damage to the nerves supplying the feet and legs.
- Peripheral arterial disease – damage to the blood vessels supplying the feet and legs.
- Weakened Immune system – reduced ability for the body to fight off infections.
- Retinopathy – impaired eyesight.
- Nephropathy – impaired kidney function These factors mean that you may not notice an injury due to nerve damage or poor eyesight. Reaching your feet may become difficult due to swelling caused by kidney damage, and wounds may be slow to heal due to poor blood supply. Your body may not be able to fight off an infection effectively. Regular treatment by a Podiatrist can drastically reduce your risks of suffering from diabetic foot complications.
Unfortunately we do not offer a home visiting service at our clinic.
We understand that there are times when you must miss an appointment due to emergencies or obligations for work or family. However, when you do not call to cancel an appointment, you may be preventing another patient from getting much needed treatment. Conversely, the situation may arise where another patient fails to cancel and we are unable to schedule you for a visit, due to a seemingly “full” appointment book. If an appointment is not cancelled at least 24 hours in advance you will be charged the full amount of your appointment fee.
Contact Us
Use our online appointment booking, call us or email.
One of our friendly reception team will be happy to help you.
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Podiatry Services
A Podiatrist can treat anything from an ingrowing toe nail requiring surgery under local anaesthetic to designing a custom made foot orthotic to assist with tendon or joint dysfunction or pain. We are also highly specialised to manage the Diabetic or High-Risk foot and the subsequent wounds that can arise.
Verrucas & Warts
Verrucas, or plantar warts, are small, rough growths on the soles of the feet caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They may cause discomfort or pain while walking.
Plantar Fasciitis
A common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, causing heel pain and stiffness.
Achilles Tendonitis
An overuse injury characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It causes pain and stiffness in the heel area.
Ingrown Toenail
Occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Proper trimming and footwear help prevent it.
Flat Feet
Flat feet, or pes planus, is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. It may lead to foot pain or discomfort.