FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a podiatrist do?
A podiatrist specialises in diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower limbs.
When should I see a podiatrist?
You should see a podiatrist if you experience foot pain, chronic foot problems, toenail issues, or injuries to the foot or ankle. Also, if you have diabetes, seeing a podiatrist regularly is recommended to prevent complications.
What are common foot problems treated by podiatrists?
Podiatrists treat issues like bunions, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, ingrown toenails, heel pain, athlete’s foot, Verrucae, sports related injuries, and diabetic foot problems.
What can I expect during my first visit to Feet & Motion appointment?
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a member of our team, who will confirm your personal details and consent for treatment. The podiatrist will take a full medical history, assess your feet and then carry out any treatments required at the time. Finally, you will leave with a treatment plan detailing what condition you have, what is causing it and what we can do to resolve it.
There is also complimentary tea, coffee and hot chocolate available to you while you wait in our reception area.
Can a podiatrist help with sports injuries?
Yes, podiatrists commonly treat sports-related injuries like sprains, fractures, and tendonitis, and can provide advice on injury prevention and performance optimization.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
This varies depending on the type of appointment. Please bring a list of your medication to your initial consultation.
If you are booked for a musculoskeletal assessment we advise that you wear the footwear you are most active in and/or the footwear you spend most of your time in. It is also recommended that you bring comfortable clothing (a t-shirt, shorts or joggers) so that you can move around freely.
Are your Podiatrists registered with the Health & Care Professions Council?
Yes, all of our Podiatrists are registered with the HCPC.
What is the difference between a Chiropodist, Podiatrist and Foot Health Practitioner (FHP)?
The titles Podiatrist and Chiropodist are legally protected and can only be used by someone who has attained a qualification in this field, which is now a 3 year degree programme from a University School of Podiatry. They must also hold registration with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and will appear on their register which can be found here.
The term Chiropody is a historical term referring to the treatment of skin and nail conditions of the feet. Over the past 30 years the scope of practice of practitioners has expanded to include: Management of lower limb pains, gait analysis, injection therapy, supply of prescription only medicines, nail surgery, diabetic foot heath as well as general foot care. In view of this extended more specialist remit, the profession has adopted the modern term Podiatry, which is recognised within healthcare around the developed world.
A Foot Health Practitioner (FHP) can support with everyday issues. While they don’t have as extensive training as podiatrists/chiropodists, they can play a crucial role in keeping our feet healthy and happy. Their job is more about maintenance and preventing minor issues from becoming big problems.
How can I book an appointment?
You can either book an appointment with us online using our online booking system, or call in to our clinic on 01403 249083 and speak to our reception team. Alternatively, you can email us at horsham@feetandmotion.co.uk.
What type of payment methods do you accept?
Payment by card (visa or mastercard ) is preferable but we also accept cash. Unfortunately we do not accept American Express (AMEX).
Can I claim back my podiatry treatment costs using my health insurance?
Yes, if your insurance allows for this. We provide a copy of our invoice that you can present to them, however check with your insurance provider first to be certain what they will cover.
Do I need a referral to come and see you?
No, we are a private clinic and do not require a referral to see you.
Do you treat diabetic patients?
Yes, we do treat diabetic patients, on your initial visit with us we will go through your medical history and will perform a diabetic foot health assessment if you are a diabetic.
Can I get an emergency appointment?
Absolutely. There are always emergency slots available for new and existing customers to ensure they are seen as quickly as possible when they are most in need. Just let the reception team know it is an emergency.
Are home visits available?
We do not carry out home visits.
Is there wheelchair access?
No, there is a small step to enter the clinic and the door is of standard size, however all our rooms are stepfree and are on the ground floor.
What is your cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy is that we require at least 24 hours notice before your appointment time if you wish to cancel your appointment. If 24 hours notice is not given, or a patient does not arrive for their appointment, then the full cost of the appointment will be charged. We send out email reminders two days before your appointment and offer flexible appointment times in an attempt to accommodate everyone’s needs.
Is there parking at the clinic?
Yes, you can park anywhere in the area by the clinic or Park Terrace East. A parking permit is required in Park Terrace East and we have digital permits for patients to use during their appointment.
Your Podiatrists will issue you a digital permit for the duration of your appointment all you need to provide is your car registration number. Please do not interrupt a previous patient’s appointment to provide your number plate as the permit may be in use by this patient. When your podiatrist comes to collect you, this is when your car registration number will be taken.
Additional parking is available on Livingstone Road, just round the corner or on New Street which is parallel to Park Terrace East.
Disabled parking is permitted only on the yellow lines just outside the clinic, the parking bays are for permit holders only.
How do I find you?
Walking:
Feet and Motion is a short walk (10 mins) from Horsham town centre. If you are walking from the Carfax in the town centre head south along East Street, cross over at the lights and continue straight onto the Brighton Road. Walk under the iron bridge (railway line), then turn directly left onto Park Terrace East. We are located at the top of the road.
Car:
If you are arriving by car we offer FREE PARKING either directly outside the clinic or anywhere along Park Terrace East. On arrival you will need to provide your car registration number so that we can provide a permit for the duration of your appointment.
Public transport:
We are a 10 minute walk from Horsham train station and there is a bus stop at the end of Park Terrace East on Brighton Road.
Accessibility:
We are a ground floor premises. There is a small step at the front door. Please let us know if you have any concerns about accessibility.