FAQ.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an appointment?

Yes, we work on an appointment system. Each appointment is 40-50 minutes long. Sometimes same day appointments are available so please call to check if we have any availability. Evening appointments are availabe by prior arrangement.



Can a Foot Health Profesional (FHP) visit me at home?

Yes, we offer home visits at a convenient time to suit patients who have reduced mobility or are unable to attend a clinical appointment.



Do you treat children?

Yes, we treat children for a number of conditions including ingrowing toe nails and verrucae etc.



Do I need a medical history?

At your first appointment we will take details of your medical history, including any medications you're curently being prescribed as well as a neuro-vascular assesment. We will also discuss your concerns, any pain or discomfor you're experiencing and review your general foot health. Please have a list of your medications to hand when seeing your Foot Health Professional.



What information should I bring / have for my appointment?

Please have a list of all your medications to hand when seeing your Foot Health Professional.



How often should I see a Foot Health Professional?

The frequency of your appointments depends on your feet and the problems you have. Some patients come every 6 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks and some once a year. It is advised to see a Foot Health Professionaly once a year for routine care and to check your general foot health.



What is the difference between a Podiatrist/Chiropodist and a Foot Health Practitioner (FHP)?

Podiatrist/Chiropodist and Foot Health Practitioners (FHPs) offer a similar service which includes toenail trimming, corn and callus removal, verrucae and fungal treatments and the management of ingrown toenails. Diabetic foot assessments and monitoring is also carried out by both, along with general advice and guidance on footcare and footwear. A Foot Health Practitioner (FHP) is diploma trained and is qualified to work in the private sector to undertake routine clinical work necessary to maintain the health of the foot. As with Podiatrists and Chiropodists, Think Feet Foot Health provide their services fully insured and those trained by The College of Foot Care Professionals and will use safely sterilised instruments for each patient. Foot Health Practitioners work with other healthcare professionals for the health and well-being of their patients and customers. Foot Health Practitioners may visit their clients in their own homes, attend to clients in Nursing Homes or provide thir services in a clinic. Foot Health Practitioners will often refer patients via their GP surgery to other Allied Health Professionals within the NHS.



Can you treat the feet of someone diagnosed with Diabetes?

Yes we can. It is essential that diabetics take extra care of their feet and check their foot health regularly. Diabetics are more likely to have damage to their circulation (vascular disease) and/or damage to the nerves which can lead to reduction in sensation (neuropathy) in the feet. Please contact an FHP or NHS Podiatry immediately if you have any sores or cuts that are not healing, are swollen or if you think you have something stuck in your foot. Get someone else to check or use a mirror if you cannot see the bottom of your feet. Diabetics should never walk barefoot and regularly check inside their shoes.