Setting up a podiatry or chiropody practice can be an expensive business.
What is often advertised as a low cost business by many of the podiatry schools and colleges, often ends up costing practitioners when they start buying practice equipment & supplies.
Buying a second hand podiatry couch for example can be an excellent way to save money. If the item last six month’s or even a year, then at least you’re up and running.
There are ways of saving money. Second hand podiatry equipment can be found if you look in the right places.
I have listed below some of the more common places that you can find items such as, chairs, drills & autoclaves.
Where can you buy second hand podiatry equipment?
Ebay
Easily the world’s largest online marketplace! Ebay is the place to go if you are looking for second hand podiatry equipment.
Larger items such as patient chairs and drills are not very common but bargains can be found.
You may find yourself having to arrange collection, many older patient chairs and workstations are big and bulky.
Autoclaves are sold, but you should always proceed with caution as they are temperamental and sensitive devices that need regular maintenance.
It is wise to purchase a second hand autoclave with service history, and recent service with calibration. Much the same as if you when purchasing a car.
Chiromart
Based in Bognor Regis, Chiromart are the only dedicated company selling second hand podiatry equipment.
A friendly and helpful company, they offer a selection of equipment at reasonable prices.
All equipment is backed up with warranty, PAT testing and certification where necessary.
Visit the Chiromart website here.
Top Tip: How old is the item, are there still spare parts available? Can it still be serviced?
Trade Companies
Many of the larger trade companies buy and sell equipment on a regular basis.
Items come up for a variety of reasons, the better the condition the quicker they sell.
Second hand Podiatry equipment items that have been returned incomplete, lightly used or repaired under warranty can no longer be sold as new.
Returned items can often be brought for a significant discount.
You may expect the item to be missing it’s original box, or associated packaging.
It is a good idea to have a clear idea of what you’re looking to buy and then ring around to see what’s available. It can often be a matter of timing.
Industry Trade Listings
Podiatry industry listings in magazines from the larger associations such as Podiatry Now or the Alliance have classified adverts near the back for podiatrists looking to sell second hand podiatry equipment.
There is even a section for selling complete podiatry surgeries.
Podiatry Forums
Whilst not the ideal place to look, online forums like Podiatry arena and That Foot Site could be used to make inquiries. **thatfootsite.com recently went offline, only to be redirected shortly afterwards to the SMAE website. 10.10.2013.
You will need to register for Podiatry arena to make a post but that is relatively straightforward. That foot site is almost completely anonymous.
Tip: Contact Your school or association, they may know of a practitioner who may be selling items.
Summary
Whilst careful consideration has to be taken into account, it is possible to make significant savings buying second hand podiatry equipment.
Timing is key, knowing what your looking for and being able to make a quick buying decision can all help.
If you have any experience buying or selling second hand podiatry equipment why not share your experience below?
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Looking to equip a satellite foot care practice. Limited budget. Need basic equipment. My budget is £1000.00.
Hi Tony, it is perfectly possible to equip with your budget but you will have to find the right bargains and act quickly. There is a lot of demand for good quality second hand podiatry equipment. Whilst you build up your business if you only intend to offer basic primary care then you can do without expensive luxuries like podiatry drills & an autoclave. Check out places like Ebay or companies like Chiromart.
Hi Adrian,
Would you be able to tell me some companies which specialise in second hand /reconditioned drill units with dust extractors.
I know about chiromart but, any others will be useful .
Thank you
Hi Ingrid,
Unfortunately Podiatry is a small industry. Practitioners tend to keep hold of items until uneconomical to repair. There isn’t enough stock for a company to make a real living from it. Your best bet is too keep an eye on Ebay, trade journals and depending on what your looking to spend, end of line or ex display items from suppliers.
Kind regards – Adrian
Hello Adrian,
I work for a charity who have a Nail cutting and Podiatry service. Unfortunately we have to sell our podiatry chair. It’s in perfect condition!
I was just wondering if you knew any trust worthy websites or organisations I can post this on in the podiatry industry?
I will need to sell this as soon as possible.
Look forward to hearing back from you.
Kind regards
Alex
Hi Alex, thank you for your message. I’ve emailed you. Regards Adrian