Toenail care
Professional care for nails that are thick, difficult to manage or causing discomfort. Irene can also advise on safer care between appointments.
Chiropody treatments
Care shaped around your feet.
From routine nail and skin care to uncomfortable corns, calluses and verrucae, Irene will assess the problem and explain the most suitable next step.
What we treat
Common reasons to visit
This is not an exhaustive list. If you are unsure whether the clinic can help, call before booking and Irene will advise.
Corns, calluses and hard skin
Careful reduction of uncomfortable hard skin and corns, followed by advice about footwear, pressure and ways to reduce recurrence.
Verrucae
Assessment and discussion of suitable treatment options. Verrucae often resolve by themselves, so treatment depends on symptoms and individual circumstances.
Bunions, hammer toes and footwear pressure
Practical advice and conservative care to help reduce rubbing, pressure and discomfort. Chiropody cannot reverse a bunion, but it may help manage related symptoms.
Older, arthritic and diabetes-affected feet
Considered routine care for people who may find looking after their feet difficult or whose health makes professional assessment particularly important.
General foot discomfort
An initial assessment can help identify common causes of discomfort and whether chiropody, self-care or advice from another healthcare professional is appropriate.
Chiropody explained
What does a chiropodist do?
Chiropodists and podiatrists assess, diagnose and treat conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs.
In the UK, both “chiropodist” and “podiatrist” are protected professional titles. Anyone using either title must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
The Maltings Clinic uses the familiar term chiropody for its foot-care service. The treatment offered is always based on Irene’s assessment and professional scope of practice.
Check Irene’s HCPC registrationBefore your first visit
- Bring a list of medicines you currently take.
- Mention diabetes, circulation problems, allergies and relevant medical conditions.
- Bring the shoes that tend to cause the problem, if relevant.
- Do not worry about making your feet “presentable” first.
A typical appointment
What to expect on the day
You will be kept informed throughout. Ask as many questions as you need—there is no expectation that you understand clinical terminology.
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Conversation
Irene asks about your concern, general health, medicines and anything that may affect treatment.
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Assessment
Both feet are examined and the findings are explained in clear, everyday language.
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Treatment
Suitable care is provided with your agreement, alongside advice on prevention and self-care.
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Aftercare
Your feet are moisturised and gently massaged when appropriate, and follow-up is discussed if needed.
Some foot problems need urgent medical advice
If you have diabetes and notice a new wound, break in the skin, swelling, heat, a colour change, discharge, smell or unexplained pain, contact your diabetes foot team or GP promptly. Use NHS 111 when they are unavailable. Chiropody appointments are not a substitute for urgent care.
When to use NHS 111Talk to Irene
Not sure whether chiropody can help?
Call the clinic and describe the problem before making an appointment.