What is Podiatry?

Podiatry or podiatric medicine is a branch of medicine devoted to the study of, prevention, diagnosis, and medical and surgical treatment of disorders of the foot, ankle and related structures.

What we do

Podiatrists (formerly Chiropodists) are healthcare professionals who have been trained to assess, diagnose and treat lower limb conditions and are qualified to treat people with arthritis, diabetes, nail surgery, sports injuries and other foot problems. Podiatrists work with people of all ages but play a particularly important role in helping those who are at risk of developing foot complications.

Multidisciplinary approach

Our Multidisciplinary Foot Team (MDfT) based at James Paget University Hospital is a team of highly trained specialists in lower limb complications. The MDfT offers a rapid access to vascular and orthopaedic surgery and Diabetologist and other specialist services for patients who present with active foot disease or foot-related complications.

How to Refer 

To refer to the Podiatry Service, please ask your GP or healthcare professional to fill in a referral form with details of the foot problem/complication with the current/past treatment, medical history, medication and your contact details in case we require further information. Existing patients can also self-refer if you feel it is an emergency, you need to dial 01493 809977 where you will be asked questions about your foot problem. Please be aware that when you submit an emergency request form, the information will be triaged by a senior podiatrist and an appropriate appointment offered.