You can book an appointment via email, telephone, or using the contact form on our website. We’ll follow up with you to arrange a convenient time. Email address: info@activatesportspodiatry.com Telephone: +44 7481772703

Most of the time, you don’t need a referral to book an appointment with us. However, some insurance companies may require a GP referral to cover your treatment, so it’s best to check with your provider beforehand.

MSK/gait analysis appointments typically last 45-60 minutes to allow for a detailed assessment. Initial routine care appointments generally last 30-45 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

At Activate Podiatry, we treat a wide variety of foot and lower limb conditions, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, shin splints, Morton's neuroma, patellar tendinosis, chronic ankle sprains, and running-related injuries. We also address biomechanical issues that affect gait and posture. In addition, we offer routine care treatments such as corn and callus removal, nail surgery for ingrown toenails, and general foot health maintenance to keep your feet in top condition.

During your musculoskeletal (MSK) assessment and gait analysis, we will start with a detailed discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and activity levels. The goal is to formulate a diagnosis and identify the underlying causes of your symptoms, such as muscle weaknesses, joint restrictions, or gait abnormalities. We use video gait analysis software to closely examine your walking or running patterns, allowing us to detect any biomechanical issues that may be contributing to your condition. The physical examination will include muscle strength testing, joint mobility assessments, and a thorough evaluation of your footwear. Based on the findings, we will develop a tailored treatment plan, which may include advice on appropriate footwear, orthotics, and targeted exercises to support your recovery and help prevent future injuries.

A video gait analysis involves recording your walking or running patterns using high-speed cameras. This allows us to closely observe your biomechanics and identify any abnormalities that might be contributing to your symptoms.

For your MSK assessment and gait analysis, it's best to wear comfortable sports gear that allows for easy movement, such as athletic shorts or leggings. Please bring a range of footwear that you regularly wear, including everyday shoes, running trainers, or any specialised sports footwear, so we can assess how each type impacts your gait. If you have orthotics or insoles, bring those along too. Additionally, if you have any previous reports—such as X-ray reports, referral letters, or other relevant medical documentation—please bring them to provide a complete picture of your condition.

No referral is required to book an appointment with Activate Podiatry if you are self-funding. However, some insurance policies may require a GP referral for reimbursement. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to confirm if a referral is needed.

Absolutely. Our assessments include education on injury prevention, including strength training exercises, footwear advice, and recommendations for proper warm-up and cool-down routines. Our goal is to not only treat your current condition but also help you prevent future injuries.

Often, the answer is no. In many cases, a change of footwear and physiotherapy rehabilitation will be sufficient to address the issue. However, in some situations, over-the-counter or custom orthotics may be necessary to promote healing and provide biomechanical support.

Custom orthotics are recommended if you have persistent symptoms that are not responding to other treatments or if you have a biomechanical issue that requires correction. During the assessment, we will determine if custom orthotics would benefit your condition, helping to improve function and reduce discomfort.

We prescribe both custom-made and off-the-shelf orthotics depending on your needs. Our goal is to provide you with the most appropriate support to improve your biomechanics and alleviate your symptoms.

The timeline for improvement varies based on the condition and individual response to treatment. Some patients see changes within a few weeks, while others may require a longer period of ongoing therapy and adjustments.

In most cases, we encourage modified activity rather than complete rest. We will provide guidance on how to adjust your activity levels and which exercises may help or hinder your recovery.

We work with a variety of private health insurance companies. Each provider has different policies regarding coverage and reimbursement, so please refer to our insurance page for specifics or consult your insurer directly.

Every insurance company has a different policy, so it's essential to check with your insurer for any specific requirements, such as needing a GP referral or pre-authorization before your appointment. Our insurance page provides more detailed information on common insurance providers, but we strongly recommend consulting your insurance company directly to confirm the details of your coverage.

Coverage can vary depending on your insurance policy. Some providers may require you to pay an excess, and certain treatments might not be fully covered. We strongly recommend contacting your insurer before your appointment to understand the details of your coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

Depending on your policy, there may be an excess or a cap on the reimbursement amount. It’s best to verify the details with your insurer prior to your appointment to avoid any unexpected costs.

If your insurer requires pre-authorisation, please arrange this before your appointment to ensure that the treatment is covered. We are happy to provide any necessary documentation to support your claim.

Yes, we provide a receipt with all necessary information, including my HCPC number, so you can submit it to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.

It’s helpful to bring your insurance information with you, especially if you’re unsure about the specifics of your coverage. This can make it easier to address any questions about your claim requirements during the visit.