Podiatry

NHS Orkney Podiatry carries out the assessment, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases and musculoskeletal problems affecting the feet and lower limbs.

NHS Orkney does not provide a toenail cutting service, this is classed as personal foot care.

How we can help you 

Once we’ve received your referral, it will be assessed for eligibility.  If accepted, you’ll receive an invitation for an initial assessment.

At your appointment we’ll carry out some basic tests regarding your circulation and sensation, and ask about your symptoms.  Once a diagnosis is reached the Podiatrist may offer some self care advice, however, if necessary you may need to return for further Podiatric specialist input.

Systemic disease management and prevention

If you have a systemic or chronic medical condition which has compromised the health of your lower limb and foot, the Podiatry team will help you manage it.  This may involve a combination of self care and Podiatric input, or may require onward referral to another specialist within our multidisciplinary team.

Conditions most commonly associated with this are Diabetes, Rheumatology, Peripheral Vascular Disease, Neurological disease, Immunocompromised and Chronic Kidney Disease.  These commonly affect the blood supply, tissue integrity and sensation.  Depending on the level of severity of your condition, will determine your risk category.

Wound management and prevention

It is important that active foot disease (wounds/ulcers) is treated by the Podiatry service in order to prevent infection and to have the best chance of healing.  We may require onward referral in order to achieve this as part of a multidisciplinary network.  Once the wound is healed the service will continue to monitor and reassess your condition regularly in order to prevent any further tissue breakdown.

If you think you have an active wound or ulcer, please self refer to our department as soon as possible, or contact your local GP practice.