image by: Jay Cross

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Podiatry challenges

I would say that the most good, to the most people, for the lowest risk, is not done by the surgeons, the specialists or the researchers (in the main). Every day, good old fashioned "chiropody" gives an amazing opportunity to help a LARGE number of people a LOT. And make no mistake, learning to be a good "chiropodist" is not easy, nor is it a skill set which you will possess right out of university. You have to work at it, and work at it with less recognition and kudos than you would receive in other areas. But consider this. If a highly specific plague were to descend and kill all the researchers, all the surgeons, all the specialists, or all the generalist podiatrists, which is the group the…

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Articles of Interest

The History of Podiatry

Podiatry has evolved from the simple foot care practices of ancient civilisations to a sophisticated medical profession. Today, podiatrists are key players in the healthcare system, offering vital services that range from routine foot care to complex surgeries. While the distinction between podiatry and chiropody still exists in some regions, podiatry has become the globally recognised term for medical foot care.

A Journey Through the History of Podiatry

The origins of podiatry can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where early humans sought to address foot and ankle ailments with a range of methods. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans are among the first cultures known to have practices related to foot care.

Are There Too Many Podiatry Colleges?

What explains the dramatic downturn in podiatry school applications in the past two years? Ms. North says there are multiple factors, including simultaneous expansions of MD and DO colleges nationally.

Our History

Did you know: Before it was called podiatry, the treatment of feet and their ailments was referred to as chiropody. Up until 1885, chiropody education was treated as a craft. Men and women became chiropody craftsmen by learning from their mentors and would apply the skills acquired in training to alleviate foot pain and discomfort for their patients.

Redefining the Role of Podiatric Medicine

Podiatric physicians and surgeons are trained alongside their allopathic and osteopathic peers, have proven to be equal in their ability to care for patients, and should be licensed accordingly. That was the message from Franklin J. Medio, PhD, keynote speaker for the fourth annual Western University of Health Sciences College of Podiatric Medicine Dean’s Distinguished Lecture March 13, 2019. Medio, who is president of Consulting Services for the Health Professions, presented “The Recognition of Podiatric Medicine as a Medical-Surgical Specialty: Breaking Down Barriers through Education and Training.” Medio said he does not consider podiatry a separate profession from allopathic and osteopathic physicians. Dentistry, pharmacy, and optometry have unique qualities and are different professions, he said. But podiatrists perform a complete history and physical examination of patients. They order lab tests. If a patient has a medical problem that’s outside of their scope, they call for a consultation. “They manage patients just like any other physician. I don’t see the difference.”

What is Podiatric Medicine?

Podiatric Medicine is the specialty of medical sciences that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and leg disorders by medical and surgical means. The Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), or Podiatric Physician, is the medical specialist responsible for the care of the foot and leg.

Resources

6 Trends Shaping the Future of Podiatry

As we know, podiatry provides a variety of benefits for all patients. From keeping athletes healthy and active to performing critical surgeries on damaged ankles, we help people stay mobile. While this may be common knowledge in our field, other professionals and patients are unaware of the breadth of our services.

Centre for the History of Podiatric Medicine

The Centre for the History of Podiatric Medicine (CHoPM) is the Royal College of Podiatry's historical archive