FAQs
Find quick answers to some of our commonly asked questions.
Can foot problems cause pain in my knees, back, or ankles?
Yes, Foot, ankle, knee, or back pain can often come from your feet. Your walking style, chosen activities and footwear can all worsen foot pain over time if not properly addressed. Ignoring these factors may lead to lasting issues, impacting your overall mobility and comfort.
By consulting a podiatrist, we’ll assess your unique foot shape and movement profile, providing personalised advice to prevent further complications. Common issues include flat feet and high arches, which often contribute to pain in the feet, knees, or lower back.
What is plantar fasciitis, and how can it be treated?
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that involves the plantar fascia, the band of tissue along the bottom of your foot that connects the heel to the toes and forms your arch. Overstretching or strain can cause tiny tears in this tissue, resulting in inflammation and discomfort.
Treating plantar fasciitis usually requires a comprehensive approach. It involves not only addressing the foot itself but also looking at the stresses placed on it daily. Factors like footwear, your walking pattern/foot profile and overall alignment are all important. By tackling these elements, we can help reduce strain, encourage healing and restore your foot’s comfort and function.
What are custom orthotics, and how can they help?
Custom orthotics are tailored devices designed to support, deload and align your foot/lower limbs. Orthotics can manage conditions like flat feet or high arches by distributing pressure evenly, reducing injuries and preventing further complications.
These devices are used to absorb shock and provide stability, decreasing strain on muscles and tendons while improving mobility and performance, especially for athletes. Because they are custom-made to fit your foot perfectly, orthotics offer maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Can a podiatrist detect skin cancer on the feet?
Yes, we play a crucial role in evaluating the health of your skin and identifying early signs of suspicious lesions that could indicate skin cancer on the feet.
While we don’t diagnose or treat cancer directly, your routine examinations can reveal suspicious lesions or abnormalities that might otherwise go unnoticed. Early detection ensures prompt referral for further investigation and appropriate treatment, potentially saving lives.
How Often Should You Visit a Podiatrist?
The ideal frequency varies based on your personal needs. Some individuals may require regular visits for ongoing care, while others might only need occasional appointments to address specific concerns. Your podiatrist can help determine the best schedule for you.
Why is neurovascular testing important for people with diabetes?
Podiatrists play a crucial role by conducting neurovascular testing to evaluate the risk status of your feet/ and lower limbs, given your medical history. This helps identify your risk factors early, especially since diabetes can significantly increase foot problems, and sometimes symptoms first appear in the feet.
Common issues for diabetics include peripheral neuropathy, which damages nerves, and peripheral vascular disease, leading to poor circulation. These conditions, if left unchecked, can cause serious complications over time.
Fortunately, regular podiatric care can greatly reduce these risks. By monitoring and managing these conditions, podiatrists aim to maintain or restore foot health and functionality.
What should I bring to my podiatry appointment?
What you need to bring depends on your specific concern. To help us diagnose and develop an effective treatment plan, consider bringing the following items:
Any relevant images or medical reports
– Your GP referral letter and medical history
– Orthotics or insoles you currently wear
– Your main pair of shoes
– Your private healthcare card, if you plan to claim through private insurance
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
In most cases, you don’t need a referral to book an appointment. However, if you’re hoping to receive a rebate through Medicare (for example, under a Chronic Disease Management Plan) or private health insurance, your health fund may require a GP referral.
Are podiatrist services covered by Medicare or private health funds?
Medicare generally does not cover podiatry services unless you qualify under specific programs like a Chronic Disease Management Plan, which requires a referral from a GP. Many private health insurance funds with extras cover do offer rebates for podiatry, but it’s best to check with your provider first.
When should I see a podiatrist?
You should book an appointment if you have ongoing foot or ankle pain, changes in the skin or nails, numbness or tingling, or any injury that affects your ability to walk comfortably. Early treatment can help prevent problems from becoming more serious.
Don’t Wait – Act Now!
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards healthier, happier feet with our tailored podiatry services.