FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions we are asked most often – answered factually and in full.
Basics
What is the difference between podiatry and cosmetic foot care?
Podiatry is a state-recognised medical profession regulated under the German Podiatry Act (Podologengesetz). Training takes two years full-time and concludes with a state examination. Podiatrists (Podologe/Podologin) are permitted to provide medical treatment on a doctor's prescription, for example for diabetic foot syndrome. Cosmetic foot care, on the other hand, only provides care for healthy feet and must not treat pathological changes.
When should I see a podiatrist rather than a foot-care specialist?
Whenever an underlying condition is involved: diabetes mellitus, circulatory disorders, rheumatism, nerve damage, nail fungus, ingrown nails, painful corns, fissures (rhagades) or foot deformities. If you take blood thinners or have limited mobility, podiatric treatment is also the safer choice.
Do I need a referral?
No. As a private (self-paying) patient you can book an appointment directly at any time. You only need a medical prescription (Heilmittelverordnung) if you want your statutory health insurance (Krankenkasse) to cover the cost.
Appointments & Procedure
How long does a treatment take?
The initial appointment takes about 60 minutes, as it includes a medical history, foot assessment and consultation. Follow-up appointments usually last between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on findings and scope.
How often should I have podiatric treatment?
A general guideline is every four to eight weeks. For diabetic foot syndrome, significant callus formation or ongoing nail-brace therapy we treat more frequently; for uncomplicated feet a longer interval is often sufficient. We agree the right rhythm together with you.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Wash your feet as usual, but avoid foot baths and thick creams on the day of treatment. Please remove nail varnish beforehand, and bring your medication list, diabetes passport and, if available, your prescription and insoles or frequently worn shoes.
Does the treatment hurt?
As a rule, no. We work very precisely with sharp, sterile instruments and burrs. Even removing a corn is usually virtually painless, as only hardened, dead tissue is removed. Please tell us immediately if a nail fold is inflamed.
What happens if I can't make an appointment?
Please cancel by phone at least 24 hours in advance. This allows us to offer the slot to someone else. A cancellation fee may apply for short-notice cancellations without a valid reason.
Cost & Prescriptions
Does my health insurance cover the cost?
Yes, for certain diagnoses. Podiatric complex treatment is a remedial treatment (Heilmittel) and is prescribed for diabetic foot syndrome and for pathological damage to the foot resulting from nerve damage or circulatory disorders. Your doctor issues a medical prescription (Heilmittelverordnung) for this. Further details can be found on our page for insured patients (Kassenpatienten).
How much is the co-payment?
Statutorily insured patients aged 18 and over pay ten per cent of the treatment cost plus ten euros per prescription. If you are exempt from co-payments, please present your valid exemption certificate.
What does treatment cost as a self-paying patient?
All services and prices are listed transparently in our price overview. Private health insurers and aid schemes (Beihilfe) frequently reimburse podiatric services in full or in part.
How long is a prescription valid for?
Treatment must begin within the period stated on the prescription – usually 28 days after issue, unless a later start date is noted. Please book your appointment promptly.
Hygiene & Safety
How safe is the treatment in hygiene terms?
Every patient is treated exclusively with a freshly reprocessed, sterile-packed instrument set. Reprocessing is documented through cleaning, disinfection, inspection, packaging and autoclave sterilisation. We explain the details on our hygiene page.
I take blood thinners – is that a problem?
No, but please let us know in advance. We adapt our technique and work with particular care to avoid any bleeding.
Can I come in with nail fungus?
Of course. Nail fungus is one of the most common reasons for treatment. Thanks to our reprocessing procedures and single-use materials, there is no risk of transmission to other patients.
Special Situations
Do you also come to my home?
Yes. If travelling to the practice is not possible – for example due to a need for care, limited mobility or after surgery – we treat you at home or in your care facility as part of our mobile foot care service.
Do you also treat children and young people?
Yes, for example for ingrown nails, verrucas or nail injuries. A parent or legal guardian must accompany minors to the first appointment.
What does the cryotherapy chamber have to do with podiatry?
Helga Maria Freitag is also a specialist in cryotherapy and founder of the first cryotherapy chamber in Memmingen. Whole-body cold exposure is used for pain, inflammatory tendencies and recovery, among other things, and combines well with podiatric care.
When does the practice open?
The podiatry practice is scheduled to open on 30 November 2026. You can already request an appointment now.
Still have questions?
Ask us directly
Call us on 089 15880714 or write to us: E-Mail anzeigen