About Podiatrists and Chiropodists
What is the difference between a podiatrist and a chiropodist?
The terms are legally synonymous in the UK — they refer to the same profession, regulated by the same body. “Podiatry” replaced “chiropody” as the preferred term in 1993 to reflect the profession’s expanded clinical scope, but both titles remain legally protected and in active use. Many experienced practitioners still use “chiropodist.” What is a Podiatrist? →
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
Not for private podiatry — you can book directly without a GP referral. NHS podiatry does require a GP referral in most areas, and is now largely limited to high-risk patients. NHS Podiatry: Who Qualifies? →
How do I know if a podiatrist is properly qualified?
All registered podiatrists and chiropodists are listed on the HCPC register. Search by name to confirm their registration is current. Using the title “podiatrist” or “chiropodist” without HCPC registration is a criminal offence. How to Check Your Practitioner’s Qualifications →
What does a podiatrist treat?
Podiatrists treat a wide range of conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower limbs — including ingrown toenails, verrucas, fungal nail infections, corns and calluses, plantar fasciitis, diabetic foot complications, and structural problems such as bunions. They can also carry out gait analysis, prescribe custom orthotics, and perform nail surgery under local anaesthetic.
How much does a podiatrist cost?
A standard private appointment typically costs £35–£70, depending on location and treatment type. London and the South East tend to be at the higher end. For a full price breakdown, see: How Much Does a Podiatrist Cost? →
About Foot Health Practitioners
What is a foot health practitioner?
A foot health practitioner (FHP) is a specialist in routine foot care — nail trimming, callus and corn removal, basic verruca treatment, and foot hygiene. Unlike podiatrists, FHPs are not regulated by a statutory body, and “foot health practitioner” is not a protected title. Many FHPs are well-qualified and hold voluntary professional registrations. What is a Foot Health Practitioner? →
How is a foot health practitioner different from a podiatrist?
The main differences are training depth, regulatory status, and scope of practice. Podiatrists complete a 3–4 year degree and are regulated by the HCPC. FHPs typically complete a 6–12 month course and are not statutorily regulated. Both can handle routine foot maintenance; only podiatrists can perform surgery, manage diabetic wounds, prescribe medicines, or carry out gait analysis. Full comparison →
How do I check if a foot health practitioner is qualified?
Look for voluntary professional registration with the APSP, RFHP, or IOCP, or completion of an RCPod-accredited training programme. These registrations are optional but indicate the practitioner has met a training standard and holds indemnity insurance. Full guidance →
When should I see an FHP versus a podiatrist?
For routine nail care, callus reduction, corn removal, and general foot maintenance — a qualified FHP is a good choice and often more affordable. For complex conditions, diabetes or vascular disease, suspected infection, persistent pain, or anything requiring diagnosis — see a podiatrist. If you’re unsure, a podiatrist covers the full range. Which should you choose? →
Conditions and Treatments
Can a podiatrist treat an ingrown toenail?
Yes — and often very effectively. Podiatrists can manage ingrown toenails conservatively, or perform nail surgery under local anaesthetic where the nail needs to be partially or fully removed. Surgery is a minor procedure with a high success rate and a short recovery time. Ingrown Toenail Treatment →
NHS information: Ingrown Toenail →
Can a podiatrist help with plantar fasciitis?
Yes. Podiatrists are well-placed to assess and treat plantar fasciitis. Treatment typically includes exercises, strapping, orthotic insoles, and in some cases shockwave therapy for persistent cases. Early treatment usually produces the best results. Plantar Fasciitis Exercises and Treatment →
NHS information: Heel Pain →
When should I see a podiatrist for a verruca?
If over-the-counter treatments haven’t worked after two to three months, or if the verruca is causing significant pain or spreading, it’s worth seeing a podiatrist. They can offer cryotherapy, needling, or laser treatment — options that aren’t available without a prescription or professional equipment. Verruca Treatment →
NHS information: Warts and Verrucas →
Do podiatrists treat fungal nail infections?
Yes. Podiatrists can assess and treat fungal nail infections, including prescribing prescription-strength antifungals where appropriate. Over-the-counter treatments are often effective for mild cases, but a podiatrist is the right choice for severe, spreading, or persistent infections. Fungal Nail Treatment →
NHS information: Fungal Nail Infection →
Do podiatrists treat diabetic feet?
Yes — this is one of the most important areas of podiatric care. People with diabetes are at higher risk of serious foot complications due to reduced circulation and sensation. Annual podiatry foot checks are recommended for all diabetic patients. NHS podiatry services prioritise diabetic patients; private appointments are also available without a referral. Diabetic Foot Care →
NHS information: Diabetic Foot Problems →
Can a podiatrist help with bunions?
Yes. Podiatrists can assess bunion severity, advise on footwear, and provide orthotics to reduce pain and slow progression. Surgical correction is carried out by orthopaedic or podiatric surgeons — a podiatrist can advise when and whether a surgical referral is appropriate. Best Shoes for Bunions →
NHS information: Bunions →
NHS and Costs
Is podiatry available on the NHS?
NHS podiatry exists but access has narrowed significantly in most areas. It is now largely limited to high-risk patients — primarily those with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or other conditions where foot problems carry serious medical risk. Routine care such as nail trimming and callus removal has been removed from NHS provision in most areas. Ask your GP for a referral if you have an underlying condition that may qualify you. NHS Podiatry: Who Qualifies? →
Does private health insurance cover podiatry?
Many private health insurance plans and cash plans include podiatry cover. Simplyhealth cash plans explicitly list chiropody and podiatry as covered treatments. Cover varies considerably between providers and plan levels — check your policy or contact your insurer directly.
How much does a routine podiatry appointment cost?
A standard routine appointment typically costs £35–£55. Initial consultations may be slightly higher (£40–£70) to allow for a full assessment. Prices vary by location, with London and the South East generally higher. Full cost guide →
Using This Directory
How does the ukpodiatrists.co.uk/ directory work?
The directory lists podiatrists, chiropodists, and foot health practitioners across England. You can search by location to find practitioners near you. Listings are generated from public data and may not yet be confirmed by the practitioner. Verified listings are ones where the practitioner has confirmed their professional details with us directly.
Are all practitioners on the site verified?
Not all. Professional status on ukpodiatrists.co.uk/ is self-declared and has not been independently verified for every listing. Unverified listings may not clearly indicate whether the practitioner is a podiatrist or a foot health practitioner. Where a listing shows as verified, the practitioner has confirmed their status with us directly. We always recommend checking credentials independently before booking — see How to Check Your Practitioner’s Qualifications →.
Can I list my practice on ukpodiatrists.co.uk/?
Yes — if your practice is not already listed, or if you’d like to claim and verify your existing listing, you can add your listing here →. Verified listings appear with a badge and allow you to add full practice details, services, and contact information.
This page is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. For concerns about a specific practitioner, contact the relevant regulatory or professional body directly.