Scope of practice
Podiatrists are specialists in the foot and ankle, and problems associated with walking and mobility. They identify the cause of problems, discuss what treatment options are available and most appropriate for the individual, and, where appropriate coo-ordinate care with other medical professionals to ensure the best care for their patients. The problems podiatrists treat include:

Foot problems in the young
Podiatrists can assess and treat a wide variety of problems affecting young children. They can assess mobility and check walking, tape and strap curly toes and other minor problems and provide supports where necessary. They can also discuss any general concerns related to foot care. In older children sports, injuries and skin problems such as verrucae, athletes foot and sweaty feet can be discussed and treated.

Adult foot problems
A wide range of foot and leg problems are caused by small changes happening over a long time. Once the causes of any given problems re identified treatment usually follows easily behind. Problems such as
corns, callus, joint pains, injuries, ingrown nails, sprains and strains, bursae, blisters, claw toes, hammer toes, bunions, tendonitis, and others can be dealt
with effectively by understanding their cause, and podiatrists seek to treat and cure where possible.

Foot problems in older people
Podiatrists are well known for their advice, treatment and management of foot problems in older people. At a time of life when keeping active and independent is essential, good foot care becomes absolutely critical. Older people will often comment that whilst they may have many problems affecting the thing that ‘stops’ them is their feet. The knock on effect on their physical and mental health can be quite significant. Podiatrists form an important part
of maintaining comfort, health and keeping independence.

Ocean Health Podiatry Team

Andrew Jackson – BSC (Hons) Podiatry SRCH MCHS
Podiatry is the examination, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases and malfunction of the foot and its related structures.

The term podiatrist is used to differentiate between State Registered Chiropodists and non state registered. A podiatrist is the same as a state registered chiropodist, and has undertaken a 3 year degree course. I entered the profession of podiatry fairly late in life, and upon graduating gained experience working for Scholls before moving to Bournemouth and joining Ocean Health.

Samantha Moore - BSC Podiatry
My Degree in Podiatric Medicine (Podiatry-Chiropody) was gained from The University of Southampton. I have developed an interest in human locomotion and lower limb biomechanics. We can apply this knowledge to nearly every patient, from our regular visitors, through to almost any sports practitioner and athlete.