What does a Podiatrist do?
A podiatrist is a health professional who deals with the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of medical and surgical conditions of the feet and lower limbs.
The conditions podiatrists treat include those resulting from bone and joint disorders such as arthritis, soft-tissue and muscular pathologies as well as neurological and circulatory diseases. Podiatrists are also able to diagnose and treat any complications of the above which affect the lower limb, including skin and nail disorders, corns, callous and ingrown toenails. Foot injuries and infections gained through sport or other activities are also diagnosed and treated by podiatrists.
To become a podiatrist a practitioner must complete a Bachelor‘s Degree and be registered with state podiatry registration boards.
Podiatrists also give expert advice on footwear, so it is a good idea to bring your shoes with you when you book in.
Why see an Allsports podiatrist?
Allsports Podiatrists consult with sports people and sports related conditions all day, every day, because we work within a physiotherapy and sports medicine practice. This has allowed us to build experience in a number of sports and what it takes to return the person to what they enjoy doing.
What is the difference between sports Orthoses and standard Orthoses?
Sports Orthoses are full length, flexible devices that replace the insole inside of your sports shoes. These are generally more flexible to provide comfort during all levels of physical activity. They can be designed specifically for use in various sports shoes e.g. football boots, cycling shoes and running shoes.
Standard Orthotics can be used in a variety of shoes. To achieve this, they are usually a more slimline device. They can be made either rigid or flexible, depending on your foot type.
Will Orthoses change the shape of my feet?
No. Orthoses are used purely as an aide to “hold” your feet into a more efficient position to help relieve and prevent pain.
What is the difference between a stability and a neutral sports shoe?
A stability sports shoe provides control for a person whose feet excessively pronate (feet roll in). Usually, you can see if a shoe is a stability shoe if there is a block of grey material on the medial side of the shoe
A neutral shoe is for the person whose feet do not roll in very much or at all.
There are different levels of stability and your Allsports Podiatrist is best qualified to determine which shoe is right for you. This process may involve the use of Computerised Video Gait Analysis.
What is computerised video gait analysis?
At Allsports Podiatry we capture images of you running using a digital video camera and then transfer these images onto a computer. We then use state of the art software to accurately analyse the images by slowing your gait down to a frame rate of up to 50 images per second.
With the help of our software, we can enhance performance, rehabilitation and reduce the risk of injury. Video analysis can assist in improving and assessing diagnosis and therapy. It provides accurate visual feedback and greatly enhances understanding — rather than describing movement, we can visually show it.
At Allsports Podiatry we may also use this method to assist us in recommending the right type of shoes for your feet.
Is Podiatry covered by private health insurance?
Yes, however, you must make sure you have Podiatry selected in your cover. If you haven’t, you can call your private health provider and make the change. Be sure to take note of any waiting periods that may apply before you are able to make your first claim.
Does Allsports Podiatry have HICAPS facilities? What is HICAPS?
Yes, Allsports Podiatry uses HICAPS. HICAPS is an electronic health claims and payments system, which offers members of participating health funds, the convenience of automatic claims processing, on the spot in the practice.
The real benefit to patients is convenience. No more queuing at health fund branches and filling in claim forms.
For more information on the HICAPS system see www.hicaps.com.au.
Is Podiatry covered under Medicare?
Not unless you have a chronic condition such as Diabetes and have been referred by your G.P. under the Enhanced Primary Care (EPC). Please see your G.P. if you think you might qualify for this service.
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
Make sure on your first appointment you bring all relevant X-rays and scans along with your most frequently worn shoes. If you are likely to require a gait analysis it is wise to wear gym clothing as you may need to run or walk on a treadmill for several minutes.
