How to become a Podiatrist – Key Basics

ABOUT THE ROLE

Podiatry, previously called chiropody, is a branch of medicine devoted to the study, diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the foot, ankle and lower leg. Podiatrists treat people of all ages and from all walks of life. They use various techniques to establish the exact nature of some foot problems and these tests might include x-rays and laboratory tests. The foot is one of the first places more serious conditions such as arthritis or diabetes appear so early diagnosis can reap many rewards further down the line.

EMPLOYABILITY AND CAREER ENTRY

Podiatrists work hands on with patients and therefore need many of the skill-sets required by doctors, nurses and other front line healthcare staff. And with places at university quite difficult to obtain, your character to do the job is even more important than usual. Some helpful attributes for the role of podiatrist include

Enjoy working with people
Excellent interpersonal skills and good communicator
Demonstrably want to make a difference to patient lives
Ability to listen, empathetic attitude
Problem solving, scientific nature
Adaptable to new techniques and sophisticated equipment
Organisational skills to safely collate patient information and data

CAREER ENTRY

Similar to nursing, podiatry is now a graduate only profession so aspiring podiatrists in the UK must attend a university to obtain a BSc in podiatry

Typical university examination requirements are 3 A Levels, including 2 A Levels in science (biology essential, + maths if possible) or BTEC National Certificate in Science (MPPM) or BTEC National Certificate in Science for example

EMPLOYERS AND SALARIES

There are a variety of establishments where podiatrists can work from; schools to hospitals to GPs surgeries and local health centres. Interestingly many podiatrists are now turning to self-employment as a popular option after some post-registration clinical experience. Freelance work is also gaining popularity especially for working mums. This may include working for an existing private podiatry clinic, working in a GP surgery, making domiciliary visits or doing locum work. Renting a chair in a treatment room in appropriate premises is also common – either in a mainstream or alternative medical practice, sports injuries centre, retail outlet, or, less commonly, hairdressing or beauty salon. Retail franchise opportunities are also a possibility. And many podiatrists often combine freelance work with part-time NHS work.