It is a real myth that podiatry treatment is just for the elderly. Looking after your feet can make an unbelievable difference to everyone. If you regularly visit a qualified podiatrist or chiropodist then you will know exactly what we are talking about.
What does a podiatrist do?
When you make your first visit to the podiatrist they will go through a medical history questionnaire. This is to establish any underlying illnesses that may affect your general health. Conditions such as diabetes can really affect your feet.
Once this has been done the podiatrist will:
- Assess your feet
- Cut your toenails and treat any conditions affecting your nails
- Remove any hard skin
- Treat any corns and calluses
- Smooth over cracks and splits in your heels
- Moisturise your feet to soften them
- Give you general advice about what you can do to improve the condition of your feet yourself.
None of the above treatment is painful or embarrassing, the podiatrist will see many different feet over their career. People are often put off of visiting the podiatrist because they have ticklish feet. The treatments listed above rarely feel ticklish so you should be fine.
Complicated conditions such as treating verruca’s and bunions or plantar fasciitis may need additional appointments . Treatment of these conditions would not generally be dealt with in a standard podiatry appointment.
Do podiatrists help with orthotics (shoe inserts)
If you have been suffering with back, hip or knee pain, wearing orthotics in your shoe could actually make a difference. Your podiatrist can help you find the right orthotics whether off the shelf or by having them made. A simple option to help you cope with aches and pains.
How much does an appointment cost with a podiatrist?
This will vary depending on where you live and on the practice charges. It would always be advisable to check the prices with your local podiatrist before confirming your appointment.
If you would like to find out about qualified podiatrists in your area then the following link may help you :
https://cop.org.uk/find-a-podiatrist/
Can I claim for podiatry on my private medical insurance?
Some private medical insurance policies and most cash plans will offer you an element of cover for podiatry/ chiropody treatment. Orthotics however may not be covered.
We can help you find a policy that will allow you to claim for podiatry whether via health insurance or a cash plan. In fact, out team of experts would be happy to let you know about all of the benefits available so you know what is covered from the start. For more information, please contact us on:
Telephone: 01245 929129/ 0800 047 0127
Email: enquiries@smphealthcare.com