Meet the Team

Adam Smith

I have always loved fixing things and solving puzzles, so Podiatry is perfect for me! I was born with a clubfoot, so I get some of the issues people have with feet: sore, ugly, embarrassed. I attempt to use my skills and knowledge to make people feel incredible, and enjoy the activities and hobbies they love doing.

I love to play cricket, watch football, baseball and ice hockey, when not out walking and exploring. Geeky things such as Sci-fi are my favourites, but I am always open to reading or watching other genres. I do have an affinity with America and Canada, having visited both many times.

I am generally happy and chatty. I want to know more about people and am open about myself. My passion is having you leave feeling like you’ve had a chat with a friend and feeling transformed from when you came in.

BSc (Hons) Podiatry (Qualified 2009);  MRCPod ; Fellow of the Faculty of Podiatric Medicine RCPS(Glasg)
Member of Council, Royal College of Podiatry (2021 - 2024)
Trustee, College of Podiatry Trust (2021-2024)
Chair Edinburgh Branch Royal College of Podiatry (2024 - Ongoing)

Introduction to Coaching Skills (University of Cambridge)

Helen Darlington 

Originally from Deeside in Aberdeenshire, I moved down to Edinburgh in 2010 to attend Queen Margaret University to study for a degree in Podiatry. Following graduation, I have worked in various NHS and private clinics in Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

I first came across podiatry as a patient at the age of 12, when I was living in Australia with my family as I was experiencing foot and knee pain when doing sports. I’d like to think my ongoing biomechanical problems make me a more empathetic practitioner as I know how debilitating foot pain can be!

I have a keen interest in MSK podiatry, and I am currently undertaking a master’s degree in Advanced Podiatry as a postgraduate with the University of Brighton to gain expertise in this field. 

Outside of work, you can find me at the gym, walking my collie X springer spaniel (Corrie) or spending time with family and friends!

Has recently returned from maternity leave.

BSc (Hons) Podiatry (Qualified 2014);  MRCPod

Holly Hanlin

In keeping with many of the team here, I am originally from close to Belfast, Northern Ireland.

In 2021, fresh out of lockdown, I moved to Scotland to become a mature podiatry student at Queen Margaret University. Having enjoyed a 10-year career in the beauty industry, I thought it was time for a new challenge. I have always been fascinated by Podiatry, and studying in Scotland was my top choice! 

Alongside my podiatry studies, I have gained some fitness qualifications since moving to Scotland and run various exercise classes, group cycle being my favourite! I love being able to bring this complementary knowledge and passion to my podiatry practice, and give clients the advice to empower their own health care.

Outside my studies, I love nothing more than walking my two dogs around the beautiful East Lothian coastline or nipping back to NI to get my fix of Veda bread and Tayto crisps! 

Foot Health Practitioner (currently studying BSc (Hons) Podiatry)

Jill Buchan

I live and grew up in the Scottish Borders. I love the scenery, and it is a wonderful place to raise my children. We are an active family and are regularly outdoors or at some activity for the kids.

I qualified from Queen Margaret University in 2011 and worked in private practice ever since. As well as a love for routine podiatry, I am keen in Musculoskeletal studies and Biomechanical issues such as pain caused on activity.

I have a focus and special interest in Podopaediatrics, an area of podiatry focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of Paediatric foot disorders and issues affecting the lower limb. I regularly undertake courses and training to improve my Podopaediatrics knowledge and abilities, with a view to extending this scope of practice.

Johanna Smith

I am originally from near Belfast in Northern Ireland and moved to Scotland in 2008 to study at Queen Margaret University. I love Scotland, it is a beautiful country and there are so many wonderful places to visit around East Lothian. As we spent many family holidays travelling to Scotland it feels like home from home.

I enjoy crafts, reading, walks and exploring local places.

I have worked solely in private practice since I qualified and began working with Adam in 2013. I hope to always be approachable and organised, aiming to make myself, and the business, the best it can be. 

I have a special interest in Cosmetic Podiatry such as Toenail Reconstruction and Warm Wax Therapy treatments, but, I love hands on care such as removing hard skin. I feel it is important to be upto date with the latest technology and techniques, so regularly look at the latest research for the best treatments, such as our Swift Machine.

BSc (Hons) Podiatry (Qualified 2012);  MRCPod

Introduction to Coaching Skills (University of Cambridge)

Phil Pearson

Originally from Bolton near Manchester, although not officially a Scot, I moved to Edinburgh at the age of 18 and have spent all my adult life here. I worked in retail for around 10 years with a specialty in fitting technical footwear and from that role I found an interest in biomechanics and podiatric management.

I have been an avid skier from a young age and no matter the year I will always find time to have a wee trip away with the family. When not ‘fixing feet’, I spend most of my time as a taxi driver taking my children to and fro from activities. My daughter is a keen gymnast and dancer and my son has a particular interest in tennis. My daughter though only 10 competed for Scotland at the 2022 Dance World Cup Finals in Spain.

MSc Chemistry;  BSc (Hons) Podiatry (Qualified 2019);  MRCPod

Rachel Hannigan

I am from Donegal in the North West of Ireland, and came to Edinburgh to study Podiatry at Queen Margaret University. After graduation, I began working in a busy private clinic in Dundee while working on a Masters Degree in Diabetes. I became interested in Podiatry from a young age having had a multitude of problems and regular visits to our podiatrist.

I am very outdoorsy, and enjoy spending my time in the beautiful hills around the local area and further afield in Scotland. Although I love to try new foods, I am not the greatest cook. But there is nothing better for me after a busy week than binge-watching a box set with my boyfriend on a Friday night.

MSc Diabetes;  BSc (Hons) Podiatry (Qualified 2017);  MRCPod