FAQ

What's the difference between a Chiropodist and a Podiatrist?

In the UK podiatry is simply the new name for chiropody. The name was changed to podiatry in 1993 when in the UK the Society of Chiropodists added the term 'Podiatrist' to their name as it's the international recognised name for a foot specialist and also as it's slightly more appropriate; 'podiatry' refers just to feet while 'chiropody' refers to both feet and hands.

What services do you offer?: Free foot check

Why not take advantage of our popular ‘free foot check' where you can have your feet, or foot problems assessed and findings discussed at no cost and with no obligation.

General foot care

We are equipped to deal with any foot problem. Many of the people who attend our clinic come for treatment of everyday foot care concerns such as nail trimming, thickened nails, corns and hard skin removal. Some seek relief from soreness, pain and discomfort, while others wish to improve the appearance of their feet to display them with confidence.

Ingrowing toenails

Ingrowing toenails are often caused by poor nail cutting or accidental damage leading to the nail growing into the flesh at the side of the toe. In most cases this can be resolved painlessly by carefully removing the spur and dressing the toe to prevent infection during healing. Download more information from our facts sheet' page.

Cryosurgery

Verrucas, a viral infection of the skin, can be a problem at any age, and although we offer an alternative for young children, cryosurgery, or freezing is offered for the treatment of stubborn verrucas. Download more information from our ‘facts sheet' page.

Nail surgery

Sometimes ingrowing toenails are too far gone or too painful to be treated conservatively and nail surgery is needed to carefully remove the side of the nail and apply a chemical to ensure it does not re-grow. This procedure takes less than an hour, is performed under local anaesthetic and you walk in and walk out. Download more information from our ‘facts sheet' page.

Orthotics

Flat feet, painful heels and plantarfaciitis, can often be corrected by specialist insoles called orthotics. Why not book a ‘free foot check' for more advice? Download more information on heel and foot pain from our ‘facts sheet' page.

Can I park at the Clinic?: The clinic has ample private parking allowing ease of access to anyone with mobility requirements. The treatment room is on the ground floor and our spacious reception provides a comfortable waiting area should you arrive early.

What payment methods do you accept?: We accept most major credit cards as well as payment by cash or cheque.

Am I covered by my health insurance?: Treatment is covered by most private health insurance companies although you should check with your provider before making an appointment.

What's the clinic's client confidentiality policy?

Maidenhead Podiatry complies with the 1998 Data Protection Act by ensuring that personal information about patients is processed fairly and lawfully, and will only be shared with the specific consent of the patient.

We need to keep a comprehensive and accurate personal data about patients in order to provide safe and appropriate care. We are required by law to hold this information for eight years for adults and until 25 years of age for children, which ever is sooner, after which it will be destroyed.

Data is held in the practice computer and in a manual filing system. The information is not accessible to the public and can only be viewed by authorised members of staff. Our computers have secure audit trails and are backed up routinely.

How many people suffer foot problems?: Studies suggest that 75% of us will suffer foot problems at some point during our lives.

Do women have more problems than men?: Women do tend to have four times as many foot problems as men with choice of footwear usually to blame.

Does Maidenhead Podiatry treat diabetics?: Yes. Your initial consultation will include a diabetic assessment ensuring specific and appropriate treatment.

Are people born with foot problems or do they develop later?: Very few foot problems are genetic. Foot problems often occur because of neglect and poor understanding of proper foot care. The most common cause is ill fitting footwear.

What is the difference between warts and verrucas?: There isn't any difference, they are the same thing and can be treated the same way.

How should toenails be trimmed?: Follow the contour of the toe. Leave them slightly longer than the tip of the toe and never cut down the sides as this significantly increases the risk of pain and infection.

What are orthotics?: Orthotics are custom made insoles designed to prevent abnormal foot movement encouraging muscles and tendons to work efficiently. They can help in the treatment of flat foot, high arches, heel pain and even the formation of corns and calluses.