What is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a qualified healthcare professional who specialises in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of foot, ankle and lower limb conditions. Podiatrists help people of all ages stay mobile, comfortable and pain-free by addressing both everyday foot problems and more complex medical issues.

Your feet carry you through life — and when something isn’t right, it can affect your balance, posture, mobility and overall wellbeing. A podiatrist looks at not just your feet, but how you move and how your feet interact with the rest of your body.

What does a podiatrist treat?

Podiatrists commonly treat:

• Foot pain and heel pain (including plantar fasciitis)
• Ingrown or painful toenails
• Corns, calluses and hard skin
• Fungal nail and skin infections
• Bunions, hammertoes and toe deformities
• Sports injuries affecting the feet or ankles
• Gait and posture problems
• Foot issues related to diabetes or circulation problems

They may also provide preventative care, advice on footwear, and personalised treatment plans to reduce pain and improve long-term foot health.

Who should see a podiatrist?

You don’t need to wait until you’re in severe pain. Seeing a podiatrist can be helpful if you:

• Have ongoing foot or ankle discomfort
• Struggle with walking or standing for long periods
• Play sports and want to prevent injury
• Have diabetes or reduced circulation
• Notice changes in your nails, skin or foot shape

Podiatry care isn’t just about fixing problems — it’s about keeping you active, comfortable and confident on your feet.