Central London Physiotherapy
Podiatry is the assessment and treatment of the feet and lower limbs for biomechanical deformities and musculoskeletal injuries. By looking at the way certain joints and muscles function we are able to determine if the way a person is walking may be contributing to their current injury or may be the direct cause of an injury.
What complaints/problems can podiatry help?
• Knee pain, ITB pain
• Low back pain, hip pain
• Running style
• Arch pain
• Bunions and toe pain
• Achilles injuries
• Plantar fasciitis/heel pain
New Patient Assessment:
The New Patient Assessment involves a detailed history, diagnosis and biomechanical examination, Video Analysis followed by the implementation of the treatment plan. We start by identifying the problem and possible causes for the presenting problem. The biomechanical assessment provides us information on the structure of the feet, legs and back and often reveals the causes of the biomechanical deformities. Flexibility and strength are assessed along with range of motion and positions of joints in the lower limb.
Temporary and Permanent Insoles/Orthotics:
Insoles and orthotics are foot supports that are put in the shoes to help improve foot function and therefore try to relieve symptoms. There are wide ranges of insoles and orthotics that are available, from over the counter insoles to custom-made orthotics. The type of insole that you may need depends on the nature of your problem and what is required to get you patient better.
In order for custom made orthotics to be manufactured; a plaster of paris impression (a cast) of the feet needs to be taken. The casts are then sent off to the orthotics laboratory and the devices are made according to a prescription determined by your podiatrist. Casting can be done in the initial consultation if required.
What should patients bring to their appointment?
• Shorts, if possible
• Running shoes (if appropriate)
• Everyday shoes
• Any old orthotics or insoles
Health Insurance
Some health insurance companies do cover the consultation fees however very few of them cover the cost of orthotics. Please check with your health insurance provider to see if you are covered. Please state Amanda Thomas’ qualifications when speaking to health insurance providers on the phone. Her qualifications are: B.Sc. (Hons) Podiatry, MChS, SRCh. Some providers require either a GP or a consultant referral and their letter must be dated prior to their initial consultation.
Insurance Companies which should cover podiatry are:
WPA, Royal Sun Alliance, Norwich Union, BUPA, Cigna
N.B. PPP does not cover non-surgical podiatry.
We do not deal directly with the health insurance companies therefore patients must settle their accounts with us and then recover the fees from the health insurance company afterwards.
Amanda Thomas
B.Sc. (Hons) Podiatry, MChS, SRCh
Specialist in Sports Injuries and Biomechanics
Enquiries 0870 6093612,
reception@thegaitlab.co.uk
www.thegaitlab.co.uk