Let’s be honest: our feet do a lot of heavy lifting. Whether you’re chasing down baguettes, navigating cobblestones, or just trying to get through another day on your feet, they deserve a little TLC. If you’ve just moved to France or you’re still trying to figure out how healthcare works here (hello, bureaucracy!), you might be wondering how to look after your soles — especially if you have foot pain, corns, ingrown toenails, or a chronic condition like diabetes that needs monitoring.
Good news: France takes feet pretty seriously. Here’s how to get yourself to a chiropodist (pédicure-podologue) and what you need to know.
What Exactly Is a Pédicure-Podologue?
In France, a pédicure-podologue is a qualified foot care specialist. They’re trained to handle everything from minor issues like calluses and fungal infections to more complex conditions like orthotic fitting or diabetic foot care. Think of them as your go-to person for all things below the ankle.
Unlike in some countries, French chiropodists are medical professionals, not beauticians. They don’t do pedicures in the salon sense — they do medical foot care.
Do I Need a Referral?
Here’s the best part: you don’t need a referral from your GP (médecin traitant) to see a chiropodist. You can book directly. However, if you want the cost to be partially reimbursed by the French healthcare system, there’s a catch — more on that below!
Where Can I Find One?
You’ll usually find pédicure-podologues working in private practices, sometimes within a multi-practitioner medical centre. You can search for one near you on doctolib.fr or through Ameli’s health directory.
Look out for ones with availability online or give them a call (or better yet — let us do the calling if French isn’t your forte 😉).
How Much Does It Cost?
A standard consultation is usually around €35 to €45, depending on the region and the practitioner’s pricing. Some treatments or orthotics (called semelles orthopédiques) can be more expensive.
What About Reimbursements?
Now, here’s the important bit:
- Routine foot care is only reimbursed if you have a qualifying condition — such as diabetes with complications or certain disabilities.
- If you do qualify, you’ll need a prescription from your GP or specialist, and the reimbursement is usually 60% of the standard rate by Assurance Maladie. Your mutuelle (top-up insurance) may cover the rest.
- For orthotic insoles (semelles), a prescription is also required for reimbursement.
If you don’t have a qualifying condition, you’ll be paying out of pocket — but it’s still worth it for pain-free walking!
How Hello Santé Can Help
Not sure if you’re eligible for reimbursement? Need help finding a chiropodist who speaks English — or even just booking the appointment and understanding what paperwork you need? That’s where Hello Santé steps in.
We’ll help you:
- Understand your eligibility for refunds
- Book appointments in your area
- Navigate prescriptions and referrals
- Fill in any necessary forms (without the foot pain of paperwork!)
Whether you’re dealing with diabetes or just need your feet to feel fabulous again, we’re here to help every step of the way. 👣