What is Podiatry?
Your feet can have a huge impact on your overall wellbeing. A Podiatrist is a university trained, Allied Heath Professional who is trained to examine, diagnose and treat a wide range of foot, toe, ankle, knee and lower limb pain and concerns. As well as looking after your foot health they can help you prevent issues occurring.
What can a podiatrist help me with?
Podiatrists are trained to help with many different conditions that can affect the lower limb such as
- Foot and arch pain
- Heel pain
- Bunions
- Ankle sprains
- Calf and shin pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Moreton’s neuroma
- Orthotic prescription
- Fallen arches
- Turf toes and plantar plate tears
- Ingrown toenails
- Callous, corns, and warts
- Skin conditions and infections on the feet or toenails
You may also be referred to a Podiatrist to co-manage health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis or other musculoskeletal aches and pains (such as back pain) where the feet may be involved.
Seeing a podiatrist
You do not need a referral to see a Podiatrist, however if you have a chronic medical condition you may be eligible for referral from your GP under an Enhanced Primary Care management scheme which will cover part of the cost of the appointment with Medicare.
As a private patient you can claim rebates for a consultation under your private health extras cover.
When you see the Podiatrist it is good to bring along orthotics or inserts that you may have been given previously.
Please arrive with the shoes you commonly wear as well as any exercise or work shoes so your Podiatrist can take a closer look at them. For comfortable assessment of your feet and legs as well as how they function during movement, we recommend wearing comfortable clothes such as shorts.
Your Podiatrist will also enquire about your medical and activity or exercise history to gain a full picture of the cause of your issue and how we can help you resolve it. Please bring along any referrals and scans that may be related to your issue.