What’s the difference between a podiatrist and chiropodist?
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What’s the difference between a podiatrist and chiropodist?
Podiatrist vs chiropodist: Are they different?
Many people wonder what’s the difference between a podiatrist and chiropodist. In this article, we’ll explore some common questions about chiropodist vs podiatrist, and how you can find a qualified foot doctor to help with your foot health or sports injuries.
The difference between chiropodist and podiatrist
Chiropodist and podiatrist are both terms that refer to doctors that diagnose and treat foot problems, including ankles, lower limbs and knees. Podiatrist has replaced chiropodist as a general use term since about 1977.
Chiropodist meaning is essentially the same as a podiatrist, and in some countries the word is interchangeable. In the United States, and to a lesser extent the United Kingdom, the term chiropodist is still used. In Australia, the term referred to is podiatrist.
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What is a chiropodist?
The name chiropody has been used for centuries to define someone that specialises in foot health.
Before 1977, chiropodists belonged to an unregulated profession. Following the decision to register all professional practitioners of podiatry and chiropody, the term ‘chiropodist’ was retired to avoid confusion, and podiatry became used in health and medical fields in Australia.
What do podiatrists do?
With chiropodists now known as podiatrists, their specialised treatment of foot disorders remains the same. A podiatrist is essentially a foot doctor, and they see and treat patients suffering from biomechanical issues. These include:
- Heel and foot pain
- Flat feet
- Callused hard skin
- Bunions
- Corns
- Ingrown toenails, including nail surgery
- Warts.
Podiatrists also advise on a range of orthotic products, including arch supports, orthotic devices and insole therapy. They also educate patients on the correct care for their toe nails and feet. In addition to foot pain, podiatrists can assist in the treatment of leg and back pain.
Looking for a podiatrist or chiropodist near me?
If you need podiatric advice or a podiatric surgeon to treat foot problems, find a reputable podiatrist with Yellow Pages. You can search listings and read reviews from professional foot doctors to help you make the best choice for your foot health.