If you’ve been putting off seeing a podiatrist because you’re not sure what it’ll cost, you’re not alone. Private healthcare pricing in the UK isn’t always easy to find, and podiatry is no exception — prices vary considerably depending on where you are, what you need, and who you see.
This page gives you a clear, honest picture of what to expect.
NHS Podiatry — Is It Free?
Podiatry is available on the NHS, but access has become increasingly restricted in most areas. NHS podiatry services are now largely prioritised for patients with complex or high-risk needs — principally those with diabetes, vascular disease, or conditions where foot problems could have serious consequences.
For most people with routine foot concerns — corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, verrucas, general foot pain — NHS referral is unlikely unless there’s a clinical reason to prioritise your case. A GP can refer you, but waiting times vary and many areas have significantly reduced their general podiatry provision in recent years.
If you have diabetes or a condition affecting your circulation or sensation, it’s worth asking your GP specifically about NHS podiatry — you’re more likely to be eligible. Read our guide to diabetic foot care for more.
Private Podiatry Costs — What to Expect
Private podiatry appointments are widely available, with most areas of the UK having a reasonable choice of clinics. Prices vary by location, practitioner experience, and the nature of the appointment.
Typical price ranges:
| Treatment | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Initial assessment / routine foot care | £35–£60 |
| Follow-up / routine appointment | £30–£50 |
| Biomechanical assessment (gait analysis) | £60–£120 |
| Custom orthotic insoles | £150–£400 |
| Verruca treatment (single session) | £40–£80 |
| Ingrown toenail treatment (conservative) | £40–£70 |
| Nail surgery (minor procedure) | £200–£400 |
| Diabetic foot assessment | £45–£80 |
These are broad ranges — London and other major cities tend to be at the higher end, while smaller towns and rural areas are often more competitive. It’s always worth ringing ahead to ask about pricing before booking.
What Does a First Appointment Involve?
A first appointment with a podiatrist typically lasts 30–60 minutes and will usually include a full assessment of your feet and lower limbs, a discussion of your symptoms and medical history, and an initial treatment or clear plan of action.
For straightforward conditions — a corn, a verruca, thickened nails — treatment often begins at the first appointment. For more complex issues like biomechanical problems or persistent heel pain, the first session is usually assessment-focused, with treatment following at a subsequent visit.
Can Health Insurance Cover Podiatry?
Some private health insurance policies include podiatry as part of their cover, though this varies significantly between providers and policy types. It’s worth checking your policy documents or calling your insurer directly to ask whether podiatry is covered, and if so, whether a GP referral is required.
Health cash plans — which work differently from traditional insurance, paying back a set amount towards everyday health costs — often include podiatry. Providers like Simplyhealth offer cash plans that can be used towards private podiatry appointments, spreading the cost in a manageable way.
If you’re likely to need ongoing podiatry (for a chronic condition, regular biomechanical care, or diabetic foot monitoring), it’s worth factoring this into any insurance or cash plan decision.
How to Keep Costs Down
- Check whether your employer offers health benefits — some workplace schemes include podiatry or contribute towards it via a flexible benefits package
- Ask about package pricing — if you need multiple appointments (orthotics, follow-ups), some clinics offer reduced rates for booking in advance
- University clinics — podiatry schools at UK universities often offer supervised clinics at reduced rates; treatment is carried out by students under qualified supervision
- Use the directory — comparing a few local clinics before booking can surface meaningful price differences, particularly for assessments and orthotics. Search for podiatrists near you.
Finding a Podiatrist Near You
Our directory lists HCPC-registered podiatrists across the UK. You can search by location to find clinics near you, with details of the services offered.
Whatever your budget, always verify that your podiatrist is HCPC registered before booking — it’s free to check at hcpc-uk.org and takes under a minute. Read our guide to podiatrist vs chiropodist for more on what to look for. Find a podiatrist near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see a private podiatrist?
No. You can self-refer and book directly with any private podiatrist without a GP referral.
Are podiatry costs tax deductible?
For most individuals, no. However, if you’re self-employed and foot health is directly relevant to your work (a professional dancer, for example), there may be a case for it — worth discussing with an accountant.
How often do I need to see a podiatrist?
It depends entirely on your needs. Some people see a podiatrist once for a specific problem and never need to return. Others with ongoing conditions — diabetes, biomechanical issues, recurring nail problems — may attend every six to twelve weeks. A good podiatrist will give you an honest assessment of what ongoing care, if any, you actually need.
The information on this page is for general guidance only. Prices quoted are indicative and may vary. Always verify a practitioner’s HCPC registration before booking. Nothing on this page constitutes financial or medical advice.
