Tell me about it
Podiatrists - sometimes known as chiropodists - are specialists in maintaining feet and the lower leg in a healthy condition.
The work can be grouped in four main areas:
* General clinics, the starting point for many newly qualified podiatrists. The work here involves assessing, evaluating and advising on foot care for a wide range of patients.
* Biomechanics, concerning the very complex structure and function of the foot. Podiatrists working in this area are concerned to preserve this mechanism, restore it when it is damaged and ensure that it is capable of working at its maximum capacity. One of the main areas is orthotics or specially designed insoles, fitted inside shoes to help solve structural problems such as fallen arches or to correct problems with children's feet.
* High Risk, concerned with patients who have an underlying illness or condition that puts their lower limbs and/or feet at high risk of damage. Examples include problems with circulation or people who have lost the feeling in their feet or lower limbs.
* Surgery, involving routine surgical procedures such as treating in-growing toenails or cutting away soft tissue problems. This may involve the use of local anaesthetics, ultrasonics or freezing techniques. Some podiatrists opt for further study to enable them to work on more invasive surgery.

Entry level
To practise as a podiatrist, you must have a BSc in Podiatry. This three-year degree course is offered at several universities in the UK. Entry standards vary but usually require a minimum of five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3), including English and two science subjects (or combined science), plus two A levels/three H grades, including one science subject. Biology or chemistry is often preferred. Alternative qualifications may be accepted.

Universities look for an understanding of podiatry as well as good interpersonal skills. Relevant work experience would almost certainly increase your chance of gaining a place. Most places on approved degree courses are funded by the NHS, which means that fees are paid. A limited number of means-tested bursaries are available to help meet living expenses. Each year of the degree programme includes theory and practical work.

Making the grade
After gaining the BSc in Podiatry, you must register with the Health Professions Council in order to use the title of podiatrist.

Once qualified, you can undertake further training to specialise in particular areas, such as foot surgery or biomechanics. The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists runs training events and offers online tools for professional development.

There may be opportunities to work overseas.

Personal qualities
You would need to be able to communicate with people of all backgrounds, many of whom will be anxious or in pain. You must be good at working with your hands and untroubled when presented with sometimes unpleasant symptoms.

You would need good business skills to run your own practice, to be well organised, capable of working on your own initiative and able to keep accurate records.

Looking ahead
There are around 10,000 podiatrists in the UK. While training places are limited, the prospects for employment after qualification are excellent.

You could work for a local NHS organisation anywhere in the country, and may decide to set up in private practice after gaining suitable experience.

Alternative suggestions
Other possibilities might include training as a doctor, nurse, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, prosthesist/orthotist, radiographer or reflexologist

Take-home pay
The starting salary for NHS podiatrists is on a scale ranging from around £19,000 to £21,000 a year. With experience and promotion, salaries rise to around £40,000 for a district senior chief and over £50,000 for a consultant. NHS podiatrists in London and the south east receive extra pay and allowances.

Podiatrists with an established private practice may earn more, charging around £40 per hour.

Effects
Podiatrists in the NHS generally work 36 hours a week, from Monday to Friday. Part-time or flexible working is often possible. As a self-employed podiatrist, you may see patients during the evenings or at weekends.

Podiatrists often travel to visit patients, so a driving licence would be useful.

Sources of information
Health Professions Council: www.hpc-uk.org
NHS Careers: www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists: www.feetforlife.org

CRCI: JG