Podiatrists are foot and ankle specialists who address a wide range of conditions, including:

• Foot pain: Plantar fasciitis, heel pain, arch pain, forefoot and toe pain
• Sports injuries: Heel pain, ankle sprains, stress fractures and achilles tendonitis
• Nail problems: Ingrown toenails, fungal infections and thickened toenails
• Skin concerns: Calluses, corns, warts and athlete’s foot,
• Deformities: Bunions, hammertoes, flat feet and high arches
• Diabetic foot care: Management and prevention of diabetic foot complications

For minor foot pain that lasts a few days and improves with rest and home remedies (RICE – rest, ice, compression, elevation), self-care may be sufficient. However, if the pain is:

• Persistent (lasting longer than a few days)
• Worsens with activity
• Interferes with your daily life
• Accompanied by swelling, redness, or numbness

It’s advisable to consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can prevent complications and promote faster healing.

A typical podiatry appointment involves a comprehensive evaluation of your feet and ankles, including:

• Medical history review: Comprehensive discussion around your medical history, current symptoms, and lifestyle factors
• Foot and ankle examination: Checking for any abnormalities, swelling, or tenderness including a dynamic assessment in our gym
• Gait analysis: Observing your walking pattern to assess potential biomechanical issues.
• Diagnostic tests (if needed): X-rays, ultrasounds, or other tests to confirm diagnosis.

Based on the examination, the podiatrist will recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Podiatrists offer a variety of treatment options tailored to your specific condition. These may include:

• Conservative measures: Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), medication
• Orthotics: Custom shoe inserts to improve foot function and alignment
• Taping: Techniques to support specific structures or promote healing
• Manual therapy: Shockwave therapy, dry needling, soft tissue massage and joint mobilisation
• Rehabilitation exercises: VALD strength testing and prescription of strengthening and mobility exercises
• Minimally invasive procedures: Nail surgery, injections: local anaesthetic, cortisone (depending on the condition)
• Surgery: In some cases, referral to surgery may be necessary to correct certain foot and ankle problems.

The cost of podiatric care varies depending on the service provided, the complexity of your condition, and your insurance coverage. Our clinic accepts both Medicare and health insurance and will provide you with an estimate of the cost of treatment upfront. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage for podiatric services. Read here for more information about eligibility for Medicare payments with podiatry.