New Patient Information
Welcome to East Kent Foot Care
Why choose our practice?
We are a private podiatry clinic based in Kent, providing professional foot and lower limb expert care for patients of all ages. Whether you are attending your first appointment or returning for ongoing treatment, our aim is to ensure you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in the care you receive.
We use the latest technology and evidence-based methods to ensure safe, effective, and lasting results.
By booking with us, you’ll not only receive expert care but also gain valuable education and prevention tips to keep your feet healthy and pain-free for years to come.
Below is some helpful information about what to expect from your visit and how to prepare for your appointment.
If you have any questions before you book or attend your appointment, our friendly team will be happy to help.
Why choose us?
Friendly, expert podiatrists
Award winning clinics
Easy-to-understand advice
Helping you stay active and worry-free
Fully qualified and HCPC registered
What is a HCPC Registered Podiatrist?
All our podiatrists are HCPC registered which means they have successfully completed the necessary education, training, and registration requirements to practice podiatry. HCPC stands for the Health and Care Professions Council, which is the regulatory body responsible for maintaining professional standards and protecting the public in the United Kingdom.
To become a HCPC registered podiatrist, an individual must complete an approved podiatry degree program, which typically lasts for three to four years. The degree program includes both academic study and clinical training, covering subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, biomechanics, pharmacology, and podiatric medicine and surgery.
What is a Foot Health Practitioner?
Our Level 4 Foot Health Practitioners have successfully completed the necessary education and training to focus on all routine foot care treatment. Level 4 FHPs are unable to medically diagnose conditions, however, at East Kent Foot Care the team work closely together to ensure that everyone receives the care and advice they require.
What is a HCPC Registered Podiatry Director?
There is one podiatry Director, Mrs Jo Shapter. The director is responsible for clinical and non-clinical tasks, overseeing the organisations operations and clinical team mentorship, guidance, learning and development. Jo is an experienced podiatrist who offers face to face clinics at Evegate and NHS FCP appointments in Folkestone, she is passionate about her team striving to providing clinical excellence.
What to expect from an initial consultation
New Patient Form: Prior to attending, please ensure that you fill out the new patient form: Medical History Questionnaire
Medical History Review: The podiatrist will begin by confirming your identify and discussing your medical history, including any previous foot or lower limb problems, surgeries, or relevant medical conditions. The Podiatry team may ask about your lifestyle, activity levels, and footwear choices. Your personal data will be checked against your medical record and stored for 7 years.
Symptoms and Concerns: You will have the opportunity to describe your current symptoms and concerns regarding your feet or lower limbs. This may include pain, discomfort, mobility issues, skin or nail conditions, or any other specific problems you are experiencing.
Physical Examination: Examination and treatment is person specific. Generally, our podiatrists will conduct a thorough physical examination of your feet and lower limbs. They will assess the skin, nails, muscles, joints, and overall foot structure. They may also evaluate your gait (walking pattern) and perform specific tests to assess your range of motion, strength, and any abnormal foot mechanics.
Diagnosis: Based on the examination findings and diagnostic tests (if performed), the podiatrist will provide you with a working diagnosis and discuss treatment options. We will try to explain your condition, its underlying causes, and potential implications. Our Podiatry team will outline the various treatment options available to you and discuss the expected outcomes of each approach.
Treatment and recommendations: Skin and nail treatment is usually undertaken within the initial consultation, if required. The podiatrist will discuss your next steps which may include; nail surgery, minor surgical procedures, continued conservative management or referral to the Foot Health Practitioner team for general foot care. If you are attending with a bone, joint, ligament, walking or activity related injury then the podiatry team will discuss steps to reduce pain and improve function. This may include; diagnostic tests, injection therapy, shockwave therapy, rehabilitation, footwear modifications, MSK analysis, Advanced MSK + 3D gait analysis, orthotics or referral. If necessary, we may discuss the possibility of more invasive interventions, such as minor surgical procedures, and explain the associated risks and benefits.
Education and Advice: The podiatrist will provide you with information and advice on self-care techniques, preventive measures, and lifestyle modifications to manage your condition effectively. They may offer guidance on proper foot hygiene, footwear selection, and strategies to minimize the risk of recurrence or further complications.
Questions and Concerns: Throughout the consultation, you are encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification on any aspect of your condition or proposed treatment. The podiatrist will address your concerns and provide detailed explanations as needed.
Follow-up Plan: Before concluding the consultation, the podiatrist will discuss any necessary follow-up appointments or ongoing care requirements. We may suggest the frequency of visits, milestones for reassessment, or monitoring plans to track your progress.