Podiatry? Chiropody? What’s the Big Difference?
The United States were the first to change the name from ˜chiropodist™ to
˜podiatrist™ in 1960, as the title chiropodist was commonly confused with the title ˜chiropractor™. In the United Kingdom the title change officially occurred in 1993. Podiatry is now the internationally recognizable name for lower limb specialists, with particular focus in the foot and ankle. Therefore it is the modern name for chiropodist, if you like!
The title chiropodist is still commonly used in certain parts of Canada and in the UK. For many people, chiropody is often described as the treatment of dermatological issues of the feet; nails and skin. Whereas podiatry still covers skin and nail issues but also podiatrists™ expertise and specific training in the mechanics of the lower limb (not just the foot, but also the ankle, knee, leg and hip); studying the pathologies of foot and ankle conditions, and also dermatological complaints.
˜Podiatrist™ is a protected title by law, and can only be used by someone who has completed what is considered an extensive 3-4 year fulltime vocational university course. Podiatry is termed an ˜allied health profession™ and according to the World Health Organisation, other health professions in this bracket include specialisms such as physiotherapy and optometry.
Like all other health care professions, podiatry is an ever evolving academic course and profession and advancements are being made with every year in the field, to benefit patient care.
The specialist podiatrist team at Dubai Podiatry Centre are all UK trained and qualified, also licensed by the DHA, and treat all ailments from traditional ˜chiropody™ related treatments such as corns and callous and ingrown toenails and verrucas to expert biomechanical assessment , custom orthotic therapy in their in-house laboratory, children™s feet and diabetic foot care.
A podiatrist is the specialist to see if you are at all concerned about your feet or lower limbs, just as you would see a dentist for your teeth or ophthalmologist for your eyes. Contact the experts at Dubai Podiatry Centre if you have any concerns about your feet, ankles or legs: 04 3435390
