We are excited to announce that Steven Connor is joining the Team at Butler Physiotherapy, Chilworth clinic. We interviewed him to find out what he can offer our patients.
Hi Steven, tell us about yourself?
"I’m a podiatrist specialising in sports injuries of the foot, ankle and lower limb. I often get asked what’s the difference between podiatry or chiropody. Technically, there is no difference and they are used interchangeably. Podiatry however, is better known internationally and has more medical associations. In the NHS for example you would see your podiatrist not your chiropodist."
What qualifications do you have?
"You need a university degree to become a podiatrist but some chiropodists do not have these qualifications. Therefore it is always advised to seek a qualified podiatrist/chiropodists which can be found at https://rcpod.org.uk where you can search for your local podiatrist."
What podiatry services will you be offering to BP patients?
"MSK (musculoskeletal) and sports podiatry.
This will be focusing on injuries of the foot, ankle and lower limb. Typical injuries I see are plantar fasciitis, Mortons neuroma, achilles injuries and shin pain. These can be helped with footwear, foot orthotics, exercises and activity modifications."
What happens in one of your sessions?
"The session will entail a detailed history of the injury with an assessment of the lower limb, foot and ankle. It is always key to look at function which is why we have a treadmill installed in the clinic for advanced gait analysis for me to record to see how you walk or run.
Sometimes, I need to use a foot orthotic/insole to help improve foot function and offload the painful structure. I can either use a modified off the shelf device or a custom made foot orthotic which is captured using an infra-red scanner.
However, foot orthotics are not always required and strengthening of the lower limb can make a big difference to foot pain. This is where podiatry comes into its element at Butler Physiotherapy as both professions work together to get the best result for the patient"
What chiropody services will you be offering to BP patients?
"We will also be offering chiropody for patients that struggle to manage their toe nails or are suffering with a painful corn or callus. The appointment will entail a neurovascular foot assessment to get an idea of foot health and treatment for nails and skin lesions. Footwear and skin texture plays a big role in our foot health so I will be working with you to get your feet into their best condition.
I also do sports chiropody as blisters, ingrowing nails and painful corns can have a negative impact on sports and make walking or running uncomfortable.
Whatever you issue is with your feet, seeing a podiatrist will help make life that little bit more comfortable.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with issues with their feet, please come and see me in clinic."
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