The name Chiropody was changed to podiatry in 1993. Podiatry is the internationally recognised name for our profession. Podiatry is a constantly evolving profession, the extensive training given to students over the 3 or 4 years of their full-time course and the continuing education after graduation ensures that podiatrists' skills and knowledge are current.
Biomechanics is the study and analysis of gait and human movement. Podiatrists observe patients for any alterations in the optimum sequence of events between the foot, the lower limb, and the rest of the body during the walking (running, cycling, skiing etc) phase. Deviations from the optimum, can lead to heel pain, foot strain, ankle, knee, hip, lower back and neck pain.
A biomechanical assessment may indicate that you would benefit from wearing an orthotic. Orthotics are prescription insoles that stabilise the foot holding it in the ideal position. Repositioning the foot alters the angles at which the foot strikes the surface. Wearing orthotics can improve corns and calluses, ankle sprains, and knee, hip, and back pain.
Podiatrists treat sports injuries with various therapies; biomechanical assessment, orthotic prescription, muscle stretching exercises, strapping, and advice for self-treatments. Where necessary, referrals are made to Physiotherapists, Osteopaths and Doctors.