Assessment & Diagnosis

podiatrists in the UK are fully qualified healthcare professionals who can assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of foot and lower limb conditions. Their training includes biomechanics, musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, dermatology, wound care, and surgical procedures. They can also prescribe some medications (if they have the appropriate prescribing qualification), refer for imaging (such as X-rays and ultrasounds), and create treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs.

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Difference Between a Podiatrist and a Foot Health Practitioner (FHP)

• HCPC-registered (Health and Care Professions Council).

• Requires a BSc (Hons) in Podiatry (3-4 years).

• Can assess, diagnose, and treat foot and lower limb conditions, including MSK, wound care, surgery, and orthotics.

• Can diagnose and treat foot conditions.

• Can refer patients for imaging, surgery, and specialist care; some can prescribe medications.

• Works in the NHS, private practice, hospitals, multidisciplinary teams.

 

Key Takeaways

• Podiatrists have a degree-level qualification and can assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of foot and lower limb conditions.

• Foot Health Practitioners (FHPs) provide basic foot care (such as nail cutting and corn removal) but cannot diagnose or treat medical conditions.

• Only HCPC-registered podiatrists can legally call themselves "podiatrists" or "chiropodists" in the UK.