Martin Godley BSc(hons), MCHs HPC reg Podiatrist
Podiatry/Chiropody
Podiatry (also known as chiropody) is the diagnosis and treatment by podiatrists of diseases and other disorders of the feet. Podiatrists are highly skilled health professionals who have been trained to prevent, diagnose, treat and rehabilitate abnormal conditions of the feet and lower limbs. Podiatrists also prevent and correct deformity, keep people mobile and active, relieve pain and treat infections.
Sports Podiatry
A Sports podiatrist will assess and manage the podiatry needs of the sportsperson and the sport. The Podiatrist may carry out a physical biomechanical assessment, which looks at the way the bones, muscles, and associated structures such as tendons are aligned and interact. The Podiatrist may also look at factors such as stability, body posture and other musculoskeletal factors. The Podiatrist will take into account the type of sport and provide advice on what the patient can do for themselves, such as stretching and strengthening exercises.
When should I be assessed by a sports podiatrist?
(1) Injury. If you have repeated lower limb injuries, it is likely to be caused by a mechanical problem or imbalance in the body. To relieve the symptoms, the cause of the imbalance must be determined and treated accordingly.
(2) Performance enhancement. For the recreational or elite level athlete who wants to avoid injury and maximise performance. A Sports Podiatrist will often work closely with a sports physiotherapist as many leg and foot problems are secondary to problems in the lower back and pelvis. The most common sports podiatry injuries are: Shin splints, Achilles tendinitis, Knee cap pain (runners knee), Calf strain, Plantar fasciitis/arch pain.
When should I be assessed by a sports podiatrist?
(1) Injury. If you have repeated lower limb injuries, it is likely to be caused by a mechanical problem or imbalance in the body. To relieve the symptoms, the cause of the imbalance must be determined and treated accordingly.
(2) Performance enhancement. For the recreational or elite level athlete who wants to avoid injury and maximise performance. A Sports Podiatrist will often work closely with a sports physiotherapist as many leg and foot problems are secondary to problems in the lower back and pelvis. The most common sports podiatry injuries are: Shin splints, Achilles tendinitis, Knee cap pain (runners knee), Calf strain, Plantar fasciitis/arch pain.