Podiatry and Chiropody FAQs
Podiatry FAQs by topic
These podiatry and chiropody FAQs answer common questions about appointments, fees and treatments at Complete Footcare in South Woodford. Click a topic below to jump to that section and find clear, practical answers.
1. Appointments, Fees and General Questions
2. Skin Problems: Corns, Calluses, Cracked Heels and Blisters
3. Nail Problems: Ingrown Toenails, Fungal Nails and Athlete’s Foot
4. Heel Pain, Plantar Fasciitis and Flat Feet
5. Bunions, Hammer Toes, Clawed Toes and Hallux Rigidus
6. Neuroma, Morton’s Neuroma and Metatarsalgia
7. Custom Orthotics and Insoles
8. Toe Surgery and Nail Surgery
9. Diabetic Footcare
10. General Foot Problems
1. Appointments, Fees and General Questions
At your first podiatry appointment, your podiatrist will take a full medical history, assess your feet, check your symptoms and examine how you walk or stand if needed. You’ll receive a clear explanation of the cause of your foot problem and the treatments available, whether that’s routine podiatry, foot pain management or a specific condition treatment. Most patients receive treatment during the first visit unless a surgical procedure is required.
Routine podiatry appointments usually take around 20-30 minutes, although more complex foot problems such as heel pain, plantar fasciitis or nail conditions may require slightly longer. Biomechanical assessments or orthotic reviews can take up to 45 minutes. Your podiatrist will let you know what to expect in advance so you have plenty of time for questions and a full explanation of your treatment plan.
No referral is needed to book a podiatry appointment. You can contact the clinic directly for help with foot pain, corns, calluses, nail problems, verrucae or diabetic footcare. Many patients prefer to come straight to a podiatrist for rapid assessment and treatment. If your case requires medical imaging or specialist input, we will guide you and write to your GP when appropriate.
If possible, bring the shoes you wear most often, any orthotics or insoles you already use and a list of medications or relevant health conditions. These items help us assess your foot mechanics, identify what may be causing your pain and offer personalised treatment. For foot pain or gait issues, bringing walking or sports shoes gives a clearer picture of how your feet function day to day.
Frequency depends on your foot health needs. Routine podiatry or chiropody is often recommended every 6 to 8 weeks to keep corns, calluses and nail problems comfortable. If you’re experiencing foot pain, plantar fasciitis, heel pain or diabetic foot issues, appointments may be more frequent until symptoms improve. Your podiatrist will tailor a schedule based on your condition and long term prevention goals.
Yes. Most podiatry treatments are safe during pregnancy and many patients find footcare particularly helpful as feet can become more uncomfortable due to swelling and changes in posture. We can safely treat corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, cracked heels and general foot pain. Your podiatrist will adapt treatment if needed and avoid anything that is not recommended during pregnancy.
The clinic accepts card payments for all podiatry services including routine treatments, custom orthotics, ingrown toenail care and diabetic footcare. Some private health insurance plans may reimburse podiatry appointments depending on your policy. If you’re unsure, check with your insurer before booking. You will always receive transparent pricing so you know what to expect before treatment begins.
2. Skin Problems: Corns, Calluses, Cracked Heels and Blisters
Corns and calluses develop when areas of skin are exposed to repeated friction or pressure, usually from footwear, foot shape or changes in the way you walk. As the skin thickens, it becomes hard and uncomfortable, especially when standing or walking. A podiatrist removes the hard skin safely, identifies the cause and gives advice on footwear or orthotics to reduce recurrence.
Corns and calluses can become painful when the thickened skin presses into deeper tissues, creating a sharp or burning discomfort under the foot. Pain often increases when wearing tight shoes or walking on hard surfaces. Professional removal provides immediate relief and helps prevent the problem returning by addressing the underlying pressure that caused the skin to harden.
Treatment involves carefully removing the hard skin with sterile instruments, smoothing any rough areas and checking the underlying cause. Your podiatrist will assess whether footwear, gait patterns or foot structure are contributing. They may recommend cushioning, orthotics or simple changes to your routine to prevent the corns or calluses from returning. Regular podiatry care helps maintain long term comfort.
Cracked heels develop when dry, thickened skin splits under pressure. Walking barefoot, wearing open-backed shoes, standing for long periods and certain skin conditions can increase the risk. Once cracks appear, they can become painful and may even bleed. A podiatrist can remove the hard skin, smooth the edges and guide you on creams and footwear that support healthy heel skin.
Blisters form when friction causes fluid to collect under the skin. If blisters keep returning, your footwear, socks or foot mechanics may be contributing. A podiatrist can pinpoint the cause, advise on proper fit, reduce pressure points and suggest protective padding or orthotics. Avoid popping blisters at home as this increases the risk of infection, especially if the skin tears.
3. Nail Problems: Ingrown Toenails, Fungal Nails and Athlete’s Foot
Ingrown toenails occur when the nail edge curves into the surrounding skin, often due to tight footwear, incorrect nail cutting, trauma or natural nail shape. This can lead to swelling, redness and pain when walking. Early podiatry treatment prevents infection and helps the nail grow normally again. For recurring cases, a minor nail procedure may be recommended.
For mild ingrown toenails, a podiatrist gently lifts and reshapes the nail edge, treats any inflammation and gives advice on nail care and footwear. If the problem is persistent or infected, a simple nail surgery under local anaesthetic may be recommended to remove a small section of the nail. This provides long lasting relief and prevents the ingrown edge from returning.
Fungal nails often appear thickened, discoloured, crumbly or flaky. The nail may lift slightly from the nail bed or develop white or yellow patches. Because other nail conditions can look similar, a podiatrist can assess the nail and confirm whether it is fungal. Treatment options include topical medication, nail thinning and advice to reduce the chance of reinfection.
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes red, itchy, peeling skin, especially between the toes. It may also cause cracking, a persistent burning sensation or a noticeable smell. Treating athlete’s foot early prevents it spreading to the nails. A podiatrist can recommend targeted treatments and help you identify triggers such as footwear, moisture or sock materials.
Foot odour often results from a build up of sweat and bacteria, but fungal infections, footwear and sock materials can worsen the smell. If odour persists despite good hygiene, a podiatrist can check for underlying issues like athlete’s foot, excessive sweating or footwear-related problems. Treatment might involve medicated creams, footwear advice or strategies to reduce moisture.
4. Heel Pain, Plantar Fasciitis and Flat Feet
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the strong band of tissue under the foot becomes irritated due to overuse, tight calf muscles, poor footwear, flat feet or sudden increases in activity. The inflamed tissue causes sharp heel pain, especially first thing in the morning. A podiatrist can assess your foot mechanics and create a treatment plan that reduces strain on the plantar fascia.
Heel pain from plantar fasciitis is typically worse with the first steps after rest because the plantar fascia tightens overnight. When you stand up, the tissue stretches suddenly and triggers a sharp, stabbing pain. A podiatrist can help manage this pattern with targeted stretches, footwear adjustments and insoles or orthotics designed to reduce stress on the heel.
Flat feet are common and not always painful, but when the arch collapses more than expected it can place extra strain on the heel, arch and ankle. This can contribute to plantar fasciitis, knee pain or general foot fatigue. A podiatrist assesses whether your flat feet are affecting your gait and may suggest strengthening exercises or supportive insoles.
You should see a podiatrist if heel pain lasts longer than two weeks, keeps returning or affects your ability to walk comfortably. Persistent morning pain, sharp stabbing sensations or pain that worsens with activity can indicate plantar fasciitis or other structural problems. Early treatment prevents the condition becoming chronic and supports a quicker return to normal activity.
5. Bunions, Hammer Toes, Clawed Toes and Hallux Rigidus
Bunions form when the big toe gradually shifts towards the second toe, creating a bony bump on the side of the foot. Genetics, footwear and joint mobility all play a role. As the joint becomes more misaligned, discomfort, swelling and pressure increase. A podiatrist can help manage pain and slow progression with footwear advice, orthotics and targeted exercises.
While non surgical treatments cannot reverse a bunion, they can significantly reduce pain and improve comfort during daily activities. Options include footwear changes, orthotics to reduce joint pressure, silicone padding, strengthening exercises and advice on managing inflammation. A podiatrist tailors treatment based on your symptoms. Surgery is only recommended when pain persists despite conservative care.
Hallux rigidus is arthritis of the big toe joint which limits movement and causes pain, especially when pushing off during walking. The joint may feel stiff or swollen and shoes can rub over the top of the toe. A podiatrist can help maintain movement, reduce pressure and advise on footwear or orthotics that support the joint and reduce discomfort.
Hammer and claw toes develop when the muscles and tendons in the toes become imbalanced, often due to genetics, arthritis, footwear or biomechanical issues. These changes cause the toes to curl or lift, creating painful pressure points. A podiatrist can assess the cause and recommend treatments such as orthotics, padding or footwear adjustments to relieve symptoms.
6. Neuroma, Morton’s Neuroma and Metatarsalgia
Morton’s neuroma occurs when a nerve between the toes becomes irritated and thickened, usually between the third and fourth toes. It often causes sharp, burning or electric shock like pain in the ball of the foot, sometimes with numbness or tingling. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition and provide treatments that reduce pressure on the affected nerve.
Pain under the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, can occur when the area is overloaded by footwear, high impact activity or foot structure. It may feel like walking on a pebble or a dull ache that worsens with standing. A podiatrist can assess the cause, recommend footwear changes and provide offloading techniques or orthotics to reduce pressure.
Many neuromas respond well to conservative treatment, especially in the early stages. Footwear changes, orthotics, activity modification and targeted padding can reduce irritation. If symptoms persist, your podiatrist may suggest additional options. Early assessment gives the best chance of improving without progressing to more invasive treatment.
7. Custom Orthotics and Insoles
You may benefit from custom orthotics if you have persistent foot pain, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, flat feet, knee discomfort or recurring forefoot pain. Orthotics support and realign the foot to reduce strain and improve comfort. A podiatrist performs a biomechanical assessment to determine whether your foot mechanics are contributing to your symptoms and whether orthotics would help.
Most custom orthotics last one to three years depending on activity level, weight, footwear and materials. High use, particularly in sports or standing jobs, may wear them down sooner. Your podiatrist will review them periodically to ensure they continue to support your foot mechanics effectively. Adjustments or refurbishments may extend their lifespan.
It’s normal to experience a short adjustment period when starting custom orthotics as your feet adapt to the new support. Mild aches or tiredness can occur but typically settle within two weeks. Your podiatrist will provide a gradual wear schedule and follow up to ensure the orthotics are working correctly and remain comfortable.
Orthotics work well in most trainers, walking shoes and supportive footwear, but narrow or minimal shoes may not accommodate them. Your podiatrist can advise on suitable footwear and may suggest specific styles that work better with your orthotics. Bringing your everyday shoes to your appointment helps ensure the best fit and comfort.
8. Toe Surgery and Nail Surgery
Surgery is recommended when an ingrown toenail keeps returning, becomes infected or is too painful to manage with conservative treatment. If swelling, redness and discharge persist or if walking becomes uncomfortable, a minor procedure provides long term relief. Your podiatrist assesses whether surgery is the best option based on your nail shape, symptoms and medical history.
Under local anaesthetic, a podiatrist removes a small section of the problem nail and applies a chemical to prevent that edge from regrowing. The procedure takes around 20 to 30 minutes and is designed to permanently reduce pain and prevent future ingrowth. You can walk out after the appointment, and aftercare focuses on keeping the toe clean and dressed.
Most patients return to normal shoes within a few days, although full healing may take a few weeks. Your podiatrist will provide clear dressing instructions, monitor your progress and advise on activity levels. Keeping the toe dry and protected helps avoid infection and ensures the nail heals neatly. Many people find long lasting relief once healed.
Toe surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some soreness or throbbing may occur once the anaesthetic wears off, but this usually settles with simple pain relief. Your podiatrist will guide you through aftercare and advise how to keep the area comfortable as it heals.
9. Diabetic Footcare
Diabetes can affect circulation and nerve function in the feet, which increases the risk of wounds, infections and slow healing. Regular podiatry checks help detect early changes before they become serious. Your podiatrist will assess blood flow, sensation and skin health, and provide personalised advice to reduce complications and keep your feet healthy and comfortable.
Most people with diabetes need a foot check at least once a year, but those with reduced sensation, poor circulation or previous ulcers may need more frequent monitoring. Regular podiatry appointments help spot risks early, treat problems promptly and provide guidance on self care. Your podiatrist will recommend a schedule based on your individual risk level.
Yes. Routine podiatry for nail care, corns, calluses and cracked heels is safe and often essential for people with diabetes. Regular treatment reduces the chance of skin breaks or infections, especially if sensation is reduced. Your podiatrist will adjust techniques as needed and ensure that all care is appropriate for your level of risk.
If you have diabetes and notice a blister, cut or broken skin, seek professional advice promptly. Even small wounds can worsen quickly if sensation or circulation is reduced. Keep the area clean, avoid walking barefoot and contact your podiatrist or GP for guidance. Early treatment prevents complications and supports safe healing.
10. General Foot Problems
Foot pain after long periods of standing can result from fatigue, poor footwear, low arch support or underlying foot mechanics. Hard floors and unsupportive shoes increase strain on the heel and forefoot. A podiatry assessment can identify whether alignment issues, flat feet or plantar fasciitis contribute. Your podiatrist may recommend insoles, footwear changes or targeted exercises.
Although the feet naturally change with age, persistent pain is not something you should accept as normal. Reduced joint mobility, arthritis, thinning fat pads and changes in posture can all cause discomfort, but these issues are treatable. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause and create a personalised treatment plan to improve comfort and mobility at any age.
Yes. Children can develop issues such as flat feet, toe walking, heel pain and gait abnormalities. Early assessment helps address problems before they affect confidence or activity levels. A podiatrist checks foot development, identifies any concerns and provides advice on footwear, exercises or supports. Many childhood foot problems improve with timely guidance.
Sudden swelling can indicate injury, infection, inflammation or circulation changes. If the swelling is painful, doesn’t improve within a day or is accompanied by redness or warmth, seek assessment promptly. A podiatrist can determine the cause and advise on treatment or refer you if medical investigations are needed.
How to find us
By Tube – South Woodford Underground Station (Central line) is around 8 minutes’ walk from the clinic, with regular services to and from central London and Essex.
By bus- W12, 179 and W13 buses all stop a short walk from the clinic on Hermon Hill.
By car- Complete Footcare is located on Hermon Hill, close to local side roads and the Charnwood Gardens area. Residents’ parking operates Monday to Friday, but there is usually free on-street parking on roads off Charnwood Drive (please make sure you check signage). Please allow a little extra time to park before your appointment.
– a short walk from South Woodford Station (Central line).
Why patients choose Complete Footcare, your trusted Podiatrist in South Woodford
A local podiatry clinic in South Woodford, close to the Central line
Experienced, HCPC registered podiatrists
Calm, gentle care especially if you are nervous about treatment
Support with ongoing conditions such as diabetes or arthritis
Help to stay active, comfortable and independent
You can explore common foot problems on our Conditions list and see how we treat them on the Treatments page. If you have a question before booking, our FAQs page may also be helpful.