Editorial

Dear Colleagues

Welcome to the spring issue of the Podiatry Review which again is full of interesting and thoughtprovoking material. It is always satisfying to see a wide contribution of articles from both regular and new authors. The diversity of material from biomechanics to the use of urea in clinical practice indicates the wealth of knowledge available within our profession.

We are finally moving from restrictions of the global covid pandemic and hopefully we can now look forward to more face-to-face contact with our patients and colleagues. I have continued to provide occasional remote consultations with patients but virtual meetings with colleagues although vital, has never been as conducive as direct social interaction. Our CPD program planned for the forthcoming year as well as our AGM at the Primary Care meeting in May is testimony to that. I would welcome as many of you to attend that meeting and be active as possible at the AGM. The Institute of Chiropodists and Podiatrists are a truly democratic organisation, and we need as much in interaction with members as possible.

On this note I would like to discuss the use of professional terms within our organisation, namely, Chiropodist and Podiatrist. We get on occasion members and individuals outside of the organisation querying the continued use of the title Chiropodist. I have attended several branch meetings where there has been quite a significant majority wanting to continue with its use. This is mainly because patients are still familiar with this term and in some members the term Podiatrist is seen as a more advanced practitioner.

I must say my own position has flip - flopped over past years but I do feel quite strongly that it should be kept. The term is a protected title after all. I qualified from Northampton in 1988 and my diploma was in Chiropody but obtained a BSc in Podiatry as a top up a year later with diplomas being phased out during this time. It is also true that other organisations within the Podiatry arena have dropped the title but it is a fact that our patients, particularly the elderly, continue to relate to this title and may impact on potential business if withdrawn.

However, on the democratic aspect of our organisation I think it’s time for this to be discussed and the membership to decide. I would welcome any thoughts direct to me or the board on this important matter.

In conclusion, let me have your thoughts and hopefully we can have good democratic discourse at the AGM.

Hopefully we can continue to have your contributions to the journal and welcome any thoughts on CPD for the future.

Stay safe.

Andrew Williams

Chair Board of Education

Guidelines for new and established authors

Content of your article should be Podiatry or foot health-related. Podiatry Review is mostly in easy-to-read format, and articles for submission should reflect this. CPD Certificates are issued for Case Studies and Articles. Please ensure that your name and title (ie - FHP, Podiatrist, or other) are included with your article. Please proof-read and spell-check your article before submission. It would be helpful to the Editorial Committee if you could reference any books or Papers mentioned in your article. If you are not sure how to do this we are happy to assist.