Sign, mirrored glass, 'Painless Chiropody', Europe, c. 1900-1980.

‘Painless Chiropody’ is advertised on this mirrored glass sign. It advertised the specialist services of a chiropodist, perhaps within a general medical practice, or even a commercial premises. A chiropodist, also known as a podiatrist, is a health professional qualified to treat diseases and conditions of the feet.

Some foot conditions such as bunions or calluses are caused by ill-fitting shoes and are relatively easy to treat. Other more serious conditions can be a side effect of diseases such as diabetes. One group who particularly rely on the services of a chiropodist are the elderly.