Podiatrist – Who Is It?

A podiatrist is a specialist who diagnoses and treats foot-related problems. Although not a medical doctor, they have knowledge in dermatology, orthopedics, diabetology, and cosmetology. Their work aims to provide prevention, therapy, and improve the quality of life for patients with foot ailments.

Since 2015, the profession of a podiatrist in Poland has been formally classified as a paramedical occupation. A podiatrist has specialized education and practical skills that allow them to perform non-invasive, professional procedures.

What Does a Podiatrist Do?

A podiatrist not only diagnoses changes in the feet but also selects appropriate therapy and performs care or corrective procedures. If necessary, they refer patients to the appropriate medical specialist and collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as dermatologists, diabetologists, phlebologists, or surgeons.

The most common problems patients seek help for include:

• ingrown nails,
• nail and foot fungal infections,
• corns, calluses, and bunions,
• diabetic feet,
• heel cracks and dry, splitting skin,
• viral warts (so-called verrucas),
• nail deformities, thickening, and injuries to the nail plate.
• changes resulting from posture defects or deformities (e.g., hallux valgus),

Podiatrists also focus on prevention – they assess the condition of the skin and nails, provide recommendations for home care and proper footwear. They also carry out therapies supporting recovery after injuries or managing chronic diseases, such as diabetes.

What Happens During a Visit to a Podiatry Clinic?

During the visit, a podiatrist:

• Conducts a detailed medical interview and evaluates the condition of the feet,
• Performs care or corrective procedures (e.g., removal of corns, cleaning of the nail plate),
• Selects an individual therapy plan and provides recommendations for further care,
• Refers to a medical specialist if necessary (e.g., dermatologist or surgeon).

Services may include nail trimming and shaping, removal of calluses, cleaning of skin lesions, application of orthonyx braces, or collection of material for mycological testing.

Who Can Benefit from Podiatry?

People of all ages – from children to seniors – benefit from podiatry. Patients visit the clinic for both aesthetic concerns and pain relief, as well as professional care in the course of chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes).

Particularly at risk are:

• ingrown nails,
• nail and foot fungal infections,
• corns, calluses, and bunions,
• diabetic feet,
• heel cracks and dry, splitting skin,

Podiatry Clinic – Katowice

At our clinic in Katowice, we offer comprehensive podiatric care – from diagnostics and therapy to patient education. Whether you are struggling with foot pain, an ingrown nail, or simply want to take care of your feet, we invite you to contact us.

Your feet deserve professional care – don’t wait until the problem worsens.

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