Question 1

What is the difference between chiropodist and podiatrist?

Accepted Answer

There is no difference. Podiatrist is a more modern title which started in the USA but now it is used in the UK and Ireland. In the UK, we are moving away from the chiropodist title but still keeping as it's protected, so the general public don't get confused.

Question 2

Is the treatment painful?

Accepted Answer

Most treatments are not painful but sometimes, depending on the problem,  it may be a little uncomfortable. We aim to keep all treatments as pain-free as possible. For nail surgery, local anaesthetic will be needed.

Question 3

Will I need more appointments after my first visit?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your foot problems. Some foot problems may need a follow up appointment after a few weeks, other problems after a few months and others only an annual check up. We will discuss this on your first appointment and suggest a treatment plan.

Question 4

Can I use my medical insurance?

Accepted Answer

You can use Simply Health. Please ask for a treatment receipt which I can send via email or printed paper for you to claim back from your insurance. Please check with your insurance before booking an appointment, some insurances will cover you for podiatry treatments, but not all. Inma Gonzalez is registered with Vitality but please note , you will need to pay for your treatment at the clinic and you will need to claim back from Vitality yourself with a receipt.  Inma is also registered with WPA. We are not BUPA registered.

Question 5

Do you treat children?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we treat all age groups, from young to old. 
Most common podiatry problems with children are verruca and ingrown toe nails even fungal infections. Some children may need orthotics.

Question 6

Do I need to be referred by the GP to see you?

Accepted Answer

No, you don't need a referral from your GP or any other medical professionals but sometimes they may advise or suggest you come and visit a podiatrist for any foot problems.

Question 7

Do you treat verruca or warts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have several different types of treatments for verrucae, depending on the patient's age, what type or site of the verrucae. We use the traditional salicylic acid 60% and Nitric acid ( Verrutop). We also have Swift microwave therapy for those very stubborn verrucae or if you have a very active life. This is the latest technology for verruca treatment.  Please find more info on our website under treatments.

Question 8

How long will my appointment  take at the clinic ?

Accepted Answer

Appointments times can vary depending on your foot problems. Generally, first appointments can take around 45 min , follow ups 20-30 min and dressings appointments 10-15 min. 
Other specialist treatments like Swift microwave therapy for verruca up 15-20 min, Foot manipulation technique ( FMT) 30-45 min, Nail surgery 1.5 hour. 
On many occasions, we need to send letters to your GP or refer you to another health care professional which we will take our time to do after your appointment.

Question 9

What conditions does a podiatrist treat?

Accepted Answer

Our podiatrists at Woodlands Clinic treat common foot conditions such as heel pain, ingrown toenails, corns, callus, fungal infections, verrucas and general foot discomfort. We see many diabetic patients for foot care and assessments, we can also send reports to your GP if requested. We now offer skin surgery for feet which includes nail surgery incisions, shave and punch biopsies, foreign body surgical removal and corns and verrucae surgical removals.

Question 10

Do you treat diabetic patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all of our podiatrists at Woodlands Clinic treat diabetic patients daily and we also do vascular and neurological full assessments that we can send to your GP or diabetic nurse if requested.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions