What do podiatrist do?
Podiatrist (Podiatry) are the branch of medicine related to foot and lower limb disorders. If it’s related to feet, it is most likely our podiatry professionals will be able to help you.
What Is The Difference between a podiatrist and a chiropodist?
Not a great deal, Chiropodist changed their names to podiatrist in 1977. At this time in some states it also saw an increase in the level of education, Podiatrist are able to look after all of your foot and ankle complaints.
Do I need a referral?
No most patients, who claim through their private health cover, do not require a referral. If you are a department of veterans affairs gold card holders or a workers compensation client you will. With the introduction of the Enhanced primary care programme those patient wishing to access this should contact their GP for a referral. More information is available in our patient support section or through our office.
Does medicare cover podiatry?
YES but NOT TO ALL PATIENTS. YOU NEED TO CONTACT OUR CLINIC BEFORE ASSUMING YOU ARE COVERED.
When introducing a Medicare rebate to the schedule in 2004 the government decided to provide only limited cover for a select few. This cover is for those patients with long term chronic conditions, such as diabetes, long term arthritis ,or vascular disease etc.
The cover provided is a great help to many and our clinic charges below the scheduled fee so that all of the treatment costs are covered. This is limited to 5 visits a year.
Please feel free to contact us for enquiries however please be aware this scheme has limited availability.
Please also check out our Patient support section for FAQ’s about this scheme.
Do private health funds cover podiatry?
Yes , all major Australian health funds cover podiatry. It is important you check your level of cover with your fund.
Is Treatment Painful?
No!! Many people particularly with large corns and callous or even an ingrown toenail, are often surprised they feel little or no pain. Our podiatrists are registered and carry the necessary qualification should you ever require a local anaesthetic.
Do Corns Have Roots?
No! Whilst many “ home doctors” may tell you they do, there is absolutely no truth to this. Corns and callous generally occur due to friction and do not grow from roots. See our common conditions section for a full explanation.
What is An Orthotic?
Orthoses are devices put inside your footwear to provide your foot with the most efficient and correct way for your foot to function. In the past orthoses have been known as arch supports, insole or inserts. Although these all may share some of the characteristics with orthoses, things have progressed a great deal.
There are generally two types of orthoses, over the counter devices such as those sold in shoe shops or at a chemist. Secondly custom made devices, generally these are far more complex and made from a plaster cast of your feet.
So what is the difference between custom made devices and over the counter devices?
Over the counter (OTC) devices generally come in 3 or 4 sizes small to extra large. They do not come in different arch heights. Are your feet the same as your best friends?
Over the counter devices are generally made from fairly cheap materials, and have a much shorter life span, than custom-made devices. They do no cope well with body weight or pressure of walking.
These devices are generally excellent at quick and short term pain relief. In fact some heel pain conditions, for example, resolve well with over the counter devices as part of the treatment regime. Others however do not !
Custom made devices are made from a plaster cast of your feet in combination with a long list of biomechanical measurement, which reveal your feet, legs and body’s best way of running, walking or playing.
Materials for custom-made devices are more hard wearing and will last for an average of 2 –3 years.
Custom made devices are exactly that “custom made” so may be designed to be accommodated in your footwear more precisely, too suit your chosen sport and activity levels.
A Step Ahead Podiatry makes full use of both styles of devices and no one device will ever be the answer to all problems. It should also be noted to be wary of professionals who promise or guarantee their device is all you will ever need, all that glitters is not gold. A good common sense approach involves addressing soft tissue work and orthoses, addressing both the symptoms and why this occurred.
Will My Child Grow Out Of Flat Feet?
Children are born with flat chubby feet, and this is part of normal development. As your child gets older there are many changes to their feet and lower limbs. At approximately 6 years of age, whilst still changing, you would expect to see an arch in their foot.
A more important indicator than the appearance of your child’s foot is function. Do they trip more regularly than children their age? Look for bruised and battered knees, pay attention when visiting children their own age. Do they complain of pain?
Do not fall into the common trap of being told “Its just growing pains” Kiddies should not have pain. If you are concerned, a podiatrist’s consultation fee is a small price to pay for peace of mind. A final word on growing out of flat feet. If every child “grew out of flat feet” why do so many adults have them??
