Kenilworth-based Halo has expanded its team with the appointment of experienced podiatrist Samuel Chidwick to head up its new specialist podiatry service.

Sam joins Halo as Head of Podiatry, bringing more than 20 years' experience and a particular specialism in musculoskeletal and sports podiatry.

The new service will focus on foot and ankle pain, sports injuries, biomechanics and performance, rather than the routine foot care traditionally associated with podiatry.

Sam holds a master's degree in Musculoskeletal Studies and Sports Podiatry and is qualified in the use of Point of Care Ultrasound to help identify the causes of foot and ankle pain.

His experience includes supporting national and international athletes, including England Rugby and Team GB, while his specialist areas include foot orthotic therapy, exercise therapy, guided injections, shockwave therapy and acupuncture.

Outside the clinic, Sam is also a personal trainer and running coach, as well as a brown belt and coach in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu.

Sam said: "Most people don't give their feet too much thought until something starts hurting or stops them doing something they enjoy.

"But foot and ankle problems can have a huge impact on how we move, whether that's walking, working, running or playing sport.

"For me, a big part of podiatry is helping people understand what's actually going on and why. If we can identify the cause of a problem and explain it properly, we can then look at the right options to help someone get back to doing what they want to do."

Halo has also invested in specialist gait analysis and foot scanning technology as part of the new service, allowing Sam to assess how people move and where pressure is being placed through the feet.

The technology can also be used to help create custom orthotics where appropriate.

Halo coowner, Dr Andrew Threadgold said: "We've been very deliberate about what we wanted our podiatry service to be.

"We're not trying to be a one-stop shop for every type of foot care.

"We wanted to focus on musculoskeletal problems, movement and performance and build a specialist service that complements the work our existing team already does.

"Sam was exactly the person we wanted to lead that. He has more than 20 years' experience, an incredible depth of knowledge and has worked with people at every level, right through to elite sport.

"It's another important addition to the team and means we can now offer an even more joined-up approach to helping people stay active, recover from injury and get back to doing the things they enjoy."

Halo's decision to specialise in musculoskeletal and performance podiatry was part of the plan from the outset, with Andrew identifying an opportunity to offer something different from more traditional general podiatry clinics.

And to mark Sam's arrival, Halo is putting its best foot forward across Kenilworth with the launch of its Golden Sole campaign.

Golden Soles are being hidden around the local area, with anyone who finds one able to claim a free 15-minute foot scan and gait analysis session with Sam.

The session gives people the chance to learn more about their foot health and how they move, with no pressure or obligation to book further treatment.

Anyone who books their free Golden Sole scan will also be entered into a draw for one of three prizes worth £165.

Andrew added: "We wanted to have a bit of fun with the launch and get people around Kenilworth thinking about their feet.

"So keep your eyes peeled for a Golden Sole. If you find one, bring it in and let Sam take a look at what's going on underneath your feet. You might be surprised by what he finds."

More information about Halo's new podiatry service and the Golden Sole campaign can be found at the Halo website.

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