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A podiatrist diagnoses and treats foot disorders and disabilities. The primary objective is to return the foot to optimum health as quickly as possible. This is achieved by combining a thorough examination of the feet with skilled practical treatment, padding, insoles, orthotics and foot health advice.
There is a serious shortage of podiatrists in South Africa at present, with less than 200 registered with the HPCSA and about 160 in private practice. Some of the major hospitals have a podiatrist either full or part-time.
You may be more familiar with the name chiropodist, but the names chiropody and chiropodist were officially change changed to podiatry and podiatrist in 1984. This reflects the more scientific approach to the practice of the profession by the modern podiatrist.
