7 Things a Podiatrist Does That Might Surprise You
Ask most people what a podiatrist does and you’ll hear “cuts toenails” or “treats corns.” Those are part of the job, but they’re a small slice of it. Podiatrists are university-trained health professionals who look after your feet, ankles and lower legs, and the way you walk.
If you’ve been searching for a podiatrist in Melbourne, here are seven things we do at Tooronga Podiatry that often catch people off guard.
1. We perform minor nail surgery for ingrown toenails
A painful, repeatedly infected ingrown toenail doesn’t have to be something you put up with. Podiatrists can perform a quick procedure under local anaesthetic to remove the problem part of the nail, and in many cases treat the nail edge so the problem doesn’t keep returning. Most people are surprised it can be done in the clinic, without a hospital visit.
2. We analyse how you walk and run
A gait analysis looks at how your feet, ankles, knees and hips move when you walk or run. Small movement patterns can put extra load on certain tissues, which is often behind heel pain, shin pain and knee pain. We use what we find to build a treatment plan around the cause, not just the sore spot.
3. We design custom foot orthotics
Custom orthotics are shoe inserts made from an assessment of your feet and the way you move. They’re different from off-the-shelf insoles. They’re designed to reduce strain on painful areas and support your feet during everyday activity or sport. Not everyone needs them, and part of our job is telling you honestly when you don’t.
4. We help protect people with diabetes from serious foot problems
This is one of the most important things podiatrists do. Diabetes can reduce feeling and circulation in the feet, so small cuts or pressure spots can go unnoticed and become serious. A regular diabetic foot check tests sensation, circulation and skin health to catch problems early. If you have diabetes, an annual foot assessment is widely recommended.
5. We treat sports injuries and persistent heel pain
You don’t need to be an elite athlete to see us. Weekend runners, walkers, netballers and gym-goers all come in with heel pain, plantar fasciitis, Achilles problems and shin splints. Treatment may include exercise programs, footwear advice, taping, orthotics or load management, so you can keep doing what you love.
6. We look after children’s feet
Kids’ feet change quickly as they grow. We assess concerns like toe-walking, flat feet, in-toeing, heel pain in active kids (such as Sever’s disease) and footwear problems. Early advice is often simple and can prevent frustration later.
7. We treat warts, stubborn skin and nail conditions
Plantar warts (verrucae), thick or fungal nails, cracked heels, corns and calluses can be painful and embarrassing. Podiatrists treat these every day, with options tailored to the cause. Many patients tell us they wish they’d come in sooner.
Bonus: you can often claim part of the cost
Many private health funds cover podiatry under extras cover. Depending on your situation, your GP may also be able to prepare a Chronic Disease Management plan that allows a Medicare rebate for a limited number of allied health visits a year. It’s worth checking your eligibility and what your fund covers.
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
No, you can book directly in most cases. A GP referral is only needed for certain rebates, such as Medicare-supported plans.
How do I know if my foot pain is serious?
Book an appointment if pain lasts more than a couple of days, keeps coming back, affects your walking, or comes with swelling, redness, heat or a wound that isn’t healing. If you have diabetes, don’t wait.
How long does a podiatry appointment take?
An initial consultation is typically around 20 to 30 minutes, which gives time for a thorough assessment and a clear plan.
How often should I see a podiatrist?
It depends on your needs. Some people come once to fix a problem, others every few months for ongoing care.