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WHEN DO I SEE A PODIATRIST?
Podiatrists are able to treat and help you to manage conditions that may involve:
· Muscle and soft tissue injuries
· Poor circulation and nerve supply
· Skin and nail disorders
· Arthritic joints
· Children’s developmental problems
· Heel pain
· Sporting injuries
WHAT DOES PODIATRY TREATMENT INVOLVE?
Once you have been assessed by your Podiatrist, treatment may include:
- General skin/nail care
- Wound care
- Foot orthotics/insoles
- Padding or strapping
- Exercises
- Advice regarding self care, footwear or physical activity
Foot care And Older People
With years of ‘wear and tear’ on the feet and the development of multiple health problems, the feet of older people often require specialised attention.
There are many older people who are able to care for their own feet. The podiatrist can provide foot care education to assist them in remaining independent.
Diabetes
Diabetes may affect the whole body, but the eyes, heart, kidneys and feet are the greatest risk. Poor sensation and reduced blood supply are possible complications to the feet of a person that has diabetes.
A foot assessment by a podiatrist will help to detect any changes - before they may become a problem.
Biomechanics
In treating foot pain, the podiatrist will often assess the anatomy and function of the foot and lower limb.
This assessment of the shape and motion of the limb allows for an effective diagnosis of the cause of the injuries and/or the development of deformities.
Children
The child’s foot is not just a small-scale model of an adult’s foot. Some foot conditions that affect adults may be avoided by detection and treatment during early development.
Group Activities:
· Shoe shopping tours
· Foot care and footwear education sessions
· Diabetes One Stop Shop
· Diabetes management sessions
HOW TO ACCESS THE PODIATRY SERVICE
You may be referred by a Health Professional or may contact the service directly.
Due to high demand on podiatry services, we must prioritise clients according to medical history and circumstances.
If you are eligible for Work Cover, Department of Veteran’s Affairs, and Transport Accident Commission Claims and have private health insurance with extras, you will be referred to a private podiatrist in the local area.
Home visits are strictly for housebound and bedbound people.
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