Podiatry is a branch of medicine devoted to studying, diagnosing, and treating disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. In Australia, a wide range of affordable podiatry services are available to cater to the population’s diverse needs. From consultations and gait analysis to custom orthotics, there are plenty of options for individuals with foot or ankle problems.
It’s important to note that affordable podiatry services are only available in certain states and territories in Australia. Podiatrists are legally allowed to practice in Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory. The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) regulates the profession and sets standards for practitioners. This ensures that Australians have access to quality podiatry services.
When seeking out a podiatrist, it’s important to do your research. Ensure that the practitioner is registered with AHPRA and check their qualifications, experience, and areas of expertise.
General Podiatry
General Podiatry includes assessing and treating common foot conditions such as corns, calluses, warts, toenail problems, and foot pain. Podiatrists also provide advice on footwear and foot care to prevent future issues.
Gait Analysis
Gait analysis is a service podiatrists offer to assess how someone walks and how their feet interact with the ground. This allows for better diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and other lower-leg issues. A podiatrist can also advise on the best type of footwear to reduce further problems.
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are devices worn inside shoes to support and stabilise the feet. Podiatrists often recommend these to help alleviate foot, ankle, and lower-leg pain caused by flat feet, plantar fasciitis and other biomechanical issues. Orthotics are custom-made to fit the individual’s feet and can help improve balance, posture, and comfort levels while walking or standing.
Footwear Advice
Podiatrists advise selecting appropriate footwear that provides support and comfort for the individual’s feet. They can also advise on how to care for your shoes and how to select the right size. Podiatrists can also assess any existing footwear for wear and tear and recommend the type of shoes best suited for a particular foot problem.
Orthotic Therapy
Orthotics are custom-made arch supports or shoe inserts designed to treat and prevent conditions involving the feet, ankles, legs, hips, and lower back. Podiatrists can create orthotics to reduce foot pain, improve the biomechanics of walking and running gait cycles, and correct foot deformities.
Sports Podiatry
Sports Podiatry treats and prevents sports-related injuries affecting the foot and lower limb. The services offered include gait analysis, biomechanical assessments, and the provision of custom orthotics.
Paediatric Podiatry
Paediatric Podiatry focuses on the foot health of children. Children’s feet differ from adults as they are still growing. As such, they may suffer from various conditions, including flat feet, in-toeing, and growing pains.
Diabetic Foot Care
Individuals with diabetes often experience foot-related complications due to the disease’s impact on circulation and nerve function. Podiatrists are critical in regularly assessing and treating these complications to prevent ulceration and amputation.
Surgery
Many podiatrists are trained in podiatric surgery to correct severe foot disorders. These include bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, and other deformities.
High-Risk Foot Clinic
High-risk foot clinics provide specialised care for individuals with complex foot conditions, putting them at a higher risk of amputation. These clinics typically offer multidisciplinary care, including podiatry, vascular surgery, and infectious disease management, amongst other services.
Home Visits
For those unable to attend a clinic due to disability or illness, many podiatrists offer home visits. These services typically include general foot care, wound management, and footwear advice.
Telehealth
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many podiatrists have started offering telehealth services. These virtual appointments allow individuals to receive affordable podiatry services care in the comfort of their own homes.
