Facts & Myths

We love a good myth — but not when it undersells what we do. Our Facts & Myths page clears up common misconceptions about podiatry and shows why our work goes far beyond routine foot care.

FALSE

Myth: We are just like a beautician

Podiatrists are HCPC-registered healthcare professionals with extensive medical training. While we do care for nails and skin, we also diagnose and treat complex foot and lower-limb conditions, manage infections and wounds, assess biomechanics, and play a key role in preventing serious complications — particularly for people with diabetes or circulation issues.

Myth: We just cut old people’s toenails

Routine nail care is only a small part of what we do — and our patients range from children to elite athletes. Podiatrists treat pain, injuries, skin conditions, nail problems, and long-term medical foot issues, helping people of all ages stay mobile, active and comfortable.

Myth: You only need a podiatrist if something really hurts

Many foot problems develop gradually and are far easier to treat when caught early. Regular podiatry care can prevent pain, reduce the risk of infection, and stop minor issues from becoming long-term problems.

Myth: Foot pain is just something you have to live with

Foot pain is not “normal” — and it’s not something you should ignore. From heel pain and joint issues to nerve problems and biomechanical imbalances, most causes of foot pain can be treated or significantly improved with the right care.

Myth: If you don’t have diabetes, podiatry isn’t really necessary

While diabetic foot care is vital, podiatry goes far beyond this. We help with sports injuries, ingrown toenails, fungal infections, corns and callus, gait problems, and everyday foot discomfort — whether or not you have a medical condition.

Myth: Over-the-counter treatments work just as well

Many foot conditions look similar but require very different treatments. A podiatrist can correctly diagnose the issue and provide targeted, clinically proven care — saving time, discomfort and repeat problems.

TRUE

Our podiatrists have a degree in podiatric medicine

Podiatrists are university-trained healthcare professionals with a recognised degree in podiatric medicine. Their training covers anatomy, biomechanics, musculoskeletal health, and medical conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs.

We complete 1,000+ clinical hours during our training

Podiatrists complete over 1,000 supervised clinical hours in hospital and clinical settings. This hands-on experience ensures strong diagnostic skills and safe, evidence-based patient care.

We overlap with physiotherapists

Podiatrists and physiotherapists both treat musculoskeletal conditions. Podiatrists specialise in the foot, ankle, and lower limb, with advanced expertise in biomechanics and gait.

We treat conditions from the hip down

Podiatrists assess and treat conditions affecting the feet, ankles, knees, and hips. Foot function plays a key role in whole-body movement and pain management.

We can perform ingrown toenail surgery

Podiatrists are qualified to perform minor surgery, including ingrown toenail procedures. Surgery is performed under local anaesthetic and aims to prevent recurrence.

We analyse your gait

Podiatrists assess walking and running patterns to identify movement issues. Gait analysis helps guide treatment such as orthotics, footwear advice, and rehabilitation.

We treat musculoskeletal conditions

Podiatrists manage conditions such as heel pain, plantar fasciitis, Achilles injuries, arthritis, and sports injuries. Treatment focuses on pain relief and improved movement.

We provide routine chiropody

Podiatrists offer routine foot care including nail cutting, callus removal, and skin care. This supports foot health across all ages and health conditions.

We work closely with other health professionals

Podiatrists collaborate with GPs, physiotherapists, surgeons, and other allied health professionals. This ensures coordinated and comprehensive patient care.