A podiatrist is a regulated healthcare professional specialising in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs. In the UK, podiatrists work across the NHS, private clinics, and specialist settings including sports medicine, diabetes care, and surgery.
Podiatrist or chiropodist — is there a difference?
The terms are legally synonymous. “Podiatry” replaced “chiropody” as the profession’s preferred term in 1993, reflecting its expanded clinical scope — but both titles remain legally protected under the Health Professions Order 2001. Many experienced practitioners still use “chiropodist.” You may see either term used interchangeably.
Regulation and registration
“Podiatrist” and “chiropodist” are protected titles regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Only practitioners on the HCPC register may legally use either title. Registration requires a recognised degree-level qualification and is renewed every two years, with ongoing requirements for continuing professional development.
You can verify any podiatrist’s registration at hcpc-uk.org/check-the-register.
Many podiatrists also hold membership of professional bodies including the Royal College of Podiatry (RCPod) and the Institute of Chiropodists and Podiatrists (IOCP), which set standards for continuing education and professional conduct.
Training and qualifications
Podiatrists complete a 3–4 year BSc Hons degree — a Level 6 qualification — before registering with the HCPC. Degree programmes cover anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, biomechanics, dermatology, and systemic disease, and include approximately 1,000 supervised clinical hours.
Some podiatrists undertake further postgraduate training in specialist areas such as surgery, diabetes care, sports podiatry, or musculoskeletal assessment.
What does a podiatrist treat?
Podiatrists treat a wide range of conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower limbs, including:
- Ingrown toenails — including surgical nail avulsion under local anaesthetic
- Fungal nail infections and athlete’s foot
- Verrucas — including cryotherapy, needling, and laser treatment
- Corns and calluses
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Diabetic foot care — assessment, wound management, and prevention
- Bunions and structural foot deformities
- Gait problems — assessment and custom orthotic prescription
- Sports injuries affecting the foot and lower limb
For a detailed comparison of what a podiatrist can treat versus a foot health practitioner, see: Podiatrists vs Foot Health Practitioners →
NHS and private podiatry
NHS podiatry is free at point of use but access has narrowed significantly in most areas. Services are now largely prioritised for high-risk patients — primarily those with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or other conditions that put the feet at serious medical risk. Routine care such as nail trimming and callus reduction has been removed from NHS provision in most areas. A GP referral is required for NHS podiatry.
Private podiatry is available without a referral. Appointment costs typically range from £35–£70 for a standard consultation, depending on location and treatment type.
How to find a podiatrist
All podiatrists listed on ukpodiatrists.co.uk/ are asked to confirm HCPC registration when claiming their listing. Professional status is self-declared — we recommend verifying registration directly via the HCPC register before booking.
For guidance on checking any foot care practitioner’s qualifications, see: How to Check Your Practitioner’s Qualifications →
This page is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice.