Podiatry services provided by - Mr Tom Austen BSc (Hons) & Ms Sarah Davies BSc (Hons) What is Podiatry? Gait Analysis and Orthotics Sports Injuries General foot & lower limb pain advice Podiatry is the study of the foot & ankle and mechanical injuries from the waist down as a result of foot function. Dysfunction of the foot and associated soft tissues whilst walking and running can contribute to a whole host of injuries, identifying and addressing these issues helps to decrease pain and improve foot efficiency. This process includes assessing 'biomechanics', the alignment and function of the lower limb during normal walking and running. The aim is to prevent and treat injury whist improving performance and prolonging sports careers. This type of assessment also provides advice to enable increased comfort during daily activities and prevent common pains. Please find the 'Foot Posture Index User Guide and Manual' download available here.   What issues can Podiatry help with? Lower back pain - such as Sacro-Iliac Dysfunction Hip pain - such as Trochanteric Bursitis Knee pain - such as Patellafemoral pain or Illiotibial Band Friction Syndrome Shin pain - such as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (shin splints) or Compartment Syndrome Foot pain - such as Plantar fasciitis or Forefoot pain (metatarsalgia) Podiatrists also deal with children's growth problems, complications from medical disorders and provide routine chiropody. What are orthotics? Orthoses are special inserts that go inside your shoes, designed from impressions of your feet. These are intended to control or improve the way your foot and leg works during normal walking and running (functional), or redistribute force and cushion your foot and leg from the pressure it receives during walking and running. What is involved in the consultation? Your consultation will enable the Podiatrist to assess your problem and provide a detailed treatment plan. The assessment looks at the function and alignment of the lower limb in relation to the primary concern of the patient (biomechanics). What to wear to the consultation? The appointment often involves assessment of knee and hip function, so clothes that allow ease of movement are preferable (e.g. shorts/loose trousers). If your footwear style varies, please bring a selection of shoes so that these can be assessed. What treatments could be offered? Exercise prescription Strength training Stretching programs Orthotics (special shoe inserts) Acupuncture Referral for physio/sports massage/surgery Our practitioners have excellent links with the private hospitals and specialist consultants in the area. Treatment can be covered by most major insurance companies.   View Clinic Cancellation Policy