Podiatrist vs. Chiropodist: How They Differ & What to Expect

When it comes to foot health, many people are unsure whether they need to see a podiatrist or a chiropodist. The two terms are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion. While both professionals specialise in foot care, there are significant differences in terminology and scope of practice depending on where you are in the world. Understanding these distinctions can help you make an informed decision about your foot care needs.

Historically, chiropody focused on basic foot care, addressing concerns such as corns, warts, and nail issues with minimal training. However, as medical knowledge advanced, so did the need for more specialised foot care. In response, chiropody evolved into podiatry in many countries, expanding its scope to include biomechanics, anatomy, and surgical interventions.

Today, podiatrists in countries such as the United States, Canada, South Africa, and Australia undergo extensive university training, allowing them to perform advanced procedures, prescribe medication, and create custom orthotics. In the UK, the transition from chiropody to podiatry happened more gradually, and while the two terms are still sometimes used interchangeably, modern podiatrists undergo a structured four-year qualification with opportunities for further specialisation.

In Singapore, however, there is no dedicated school of podiatry. Instead, podiatrists practicing in the country come from various educational backgrounds, with training ranging from three-year programs to more advanced four-year degrees with postgraduate studies. To ensure quality care, patients can review a podiatrist’s qualifications, including their degree and the university they attended.

A key distinction between podiatrists and chiropodists is the level of education and training they receive.

Podiatrists complete comprehensive education, typically earning a bachelor’s degree in podiatric medicine followed by hands-on clinical training. This prepares them to diagnose and treat a wide range of foot, ankle, and lower limb conditions, including structural issues and sports injuries.

Chiropodists, on the other hand, traditionally focused on routine foot care without requiring the same level of medical training. However, as healthcare standards have evolved, many chiropodists have upgraded their qualifications to meet podiatric standards.

For individuals requiring advanced care—such as treatment for recurring ingrown toenails or orthotics for managing shin splints or walking problems like excessive supination or pronation—a podiatrist’s extensive training ensures they can provide specialised and preventive care tailored to your needs.

While both podiatrists and chiropodists address foot-related concerns, podiatrists typically have a broader scope of practice. Their expertise includes:

Chiropodists traditionally focus on general foot care, including treating corns, calluses, and minor skin conditions. However, in some countries, their scope has expanded to include more complex treatments. If you require specialised care for chronic conditions like plantar fasciitis or structural foot problems, podiatrists are often the better choice.

Your consultation will typically begin with a detailed assessment of your medical history, lifestyle, and specific foot concerns.

For example, if you have an ingrown toenail, the podiatrist will examine the affected area, discuss your symptoms, and recommend the best course of action. This may involve minor surgical procedures, customised footwear advice, or aftercare recommendations to prevent recurrence.

If you are seeking treatment for a sports-related injury, such as shin splints or injuries while running, the podiatrist may conduct a biomechanical assessment to evaluate how your feet and lower limbs function during movement. Based on their findings, they may suggest tailored orthotics or rehabilitation exercises to alleviate pain and improve performance.

For routine concerns like corns, the professional will safely remove hardened skin and provide guidance on footwear choices and preventive measures to minimise recurrence. This ensures a more effective and pain-free solution compared to at-home remedies.

Understanding the differences between a podiatrist and a chiropodist can help you make informed decisions about your foot care. If you require routine maintenance or treatment for minor concerns, a chiropodist may suffice. However, for complex or chronic issues, a podiatrist’s advanced expertise is invaluable.

Podiatrists in Singapore play a crucial role in providing specialised care for a wide range of foot and lower limb conditions. Whether you’re dealing with painful corns, an ingrown toenail, or the aftermath of an injury, consulting a podiatrist ensures you receive professional and personalised treatment.

At the Family Podiatry Centre, our team of highly trained podiatrists are committed to keeping you on your feet. With about eight years of study in the field of podiatry per podiatrist, our specialists offer a full spectrum of care, from addressing everyday concerns to managing long-term conditions. Visit our website to learn more about our services or to book an appointment.