In this episode of Behind the Clinic Doors: The Foot Health Podcast, I’m joined by Ian Reilly, Consultant Podiatric Surgeon, for an in-depth and honest conversation about podiatric surgery, patient care, and the evolving role of the profession.

Ian shares his journey from starting as a chiropodist to becoming a consultant podiatric surgeon, reflecting on his education, mentorship, and the experiences that shaped his career. We discuss the large number of procedures Ian has carried out to date, the surgeries he performs most often, and his role in taking over the podiatric surgery service within Northamptonshire NHS Trust.

We explore how podiatric surgery has changed over the years, including shifts in scope of practice, advances in equipment, and the growing role of minimally invasive surgery. Ian talks openly about patient expectations, surgical planning, safe recovery, and common myths surrounding podiatric surgery. His most common procedure is hammer toe correction, while bunions remain the most frequent referral he receives.

The conversation also covers challenges within referrals, the disconnect that can sometimes exist between podiatrists and podiatric surgeons, and the importance of communication and shared understanding. Ian speaks passionately about education, mentorship, and the need to share skills with those aspiring to enter podiatric surgery. We also reflect on how open and respectful professional discussions, including conversations Ian and I have had ourselves, can lead to better understanding.

We finish by discussing what makes a great podiatric surgeon, the importance of constructive challenge, the meaning of the title “podiatric surgeon”, and the uncertainty surrounding the future growth of the profession and the need for new surgeons.

To learn more about Ian’s work, education, and professional insights, you can find him here:
https://linktr.ee/podsurgeon
https://podsurgeon.co.uk
You can also explore Ian’s CPD Foot Notes on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/podsurgeon.co.uk

#PodiatricSurgery #Podiatry #BehindTheClinicDoors #FootHealth #PatientCare #MinimallyInvasiveSurgery #FootSurgery #HealthcareProfessionals #PodiatricSurgeon #ClinicalEducation #Mentorship #BunionSurgery #HammerToe #FootHealthProfessionals #HealthPodcast

In this episode of Behind the Clinic Doors, I’m joined by Roger, who shares his lived experience of Parkinson’s disease and his journey from diagnosis to becoming an active member of the Selby Parkinson’s Support Group.

Roger talks openly about how he was first diagnosed, the impact Parkinson’s has had on his life and the people around him, and how finding the Selby support group helped him feel understood and supported. We discuss the importance of community, shared experience, and accessible support for those living with Parkinson’s.

Roger also shares thoughtful advice for others living with Parkinson’s, as well as insights for health and foot health professionals, highlighting the value of listening beyond the clinic setting and understanding the person, not just the condition.

This episode offers an honest and meaningful conversation about care, connection, and learning from lived experience.

#ParkinsonsAwareness #LivingWithParkinsons #BehindTheClinicDoors #HealthPodcast #PatientVoice #ParkinsonsSupport #SelbyParkinsons #ChronicIllness #CommunityCare #HealthcareProfessionals #FootHealthProfessionals #LivedExperience #ParkinsonsUK

In this episode of Behind the Clinic Doors: The Foot Health Podcast, I head to the Happy Little Soles try-on event in Bristol to experience the world of barefoot shoes first-hand. I speak with the founder of Happy Little Soles, chat with customers of all ages, and explore the different reasons people are turning to barefoot footwear.

From long-term foot health goals to simply wanting more comfortable and natural movement, the stories shared at the event highlight why barefoot shoes are becoming increasingly popular. I also catch up with Nicola from The Foot Collective to discuss foot function, community learning, and how barefoot choices can support stronger, healthier feet.

This episode offers an on-the-ground look at real experiences, real people, and the growing interest in barefoot living.

To learn more about their work and upcoming events, you can find Happy Little Soles through their official platforms and social channels.

#BarefootShoes #HappyLittleSoles #FootHealth #BarefootMovement #BehindTheClinicDoors #TheFootCollective #NaturalMovement #FootCare #FootHealthProfessionals #BristolEvents #BarefootCommunity #HealthyFeet #FootFunction