Pedicurist or medical pedicurist: the difference

The terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a clear difference in training and in what someone may treat. Knowing that difference helps you book the right appointment.

1. What a pedicurist does

A qualified pedicurist cares for the foot completely: cleansing and disinfecting, trimming and finishing nails, removing callus, treating corns and cracks and freeing an ingrown nail edge.

A pedicurist also looks at the cause. Where does the pressure come from, is the footwear right, how are the nails cut? That advice is often just as important as the treatment itself.

2. What a medical pedicurist adds

The medical pedicurist is trained to treat feet at increased risk, for instance because of diabetes, rheumatism or reduced circulation. With those feet a small wound is a big risk.

That requires extra knowledge of conditions, of assessing risk and of when not to treat but to refer. Techniques such as nail braces and pressure relieving aids are part of it too.

• Pedicurist: complete care of the foot
• Medical pedicurist: feet at increased risk
• Mention any conditions when you book
• If in doubt: describe your complaint in advance

3. How it works at Pedicure Patty

Patty successfully completed her pedicure training in May 2024 and went on to qualify as a medical pedicurist. She now holds that diploma.

In practice that means complete foot care is always possible. If you have a condition that puts your feet at extra risk, mention it when you book. Patty will tell you honestly what she can do in your situation.

4. Which treatment to choose

For healthy feet that simply need maintenance, the €45 standard treatment is the logical choice. For feet that need more attention, with stubborn callus, recurring corns or heavily thickened nails, there is the €52.50 medical treatment.

If you are unsure, briefly describe your complaint when booking. The right amount of time is then set aside and there are no surprises.

5. What you may always expect

Clean and disinfected working, an explanation of what is happening, and honesty about what is and is not possible. A good pedicurist also says when something belongs with your GP.

That last point may be the most important quality marker. Anyone claiming to be able to treat everything is not who you want to be sitting with.

In practice this subject belongs with callus removal and corn treatment. There you can read how Patty works, or you can request an appointment straight away.

Further reading: what does a standard treatment cost?, what does a medical treatment cost?, what does a pedicure at home cost?.

Frequently asked questions