Frequently Asked Questions

A podiatrist is a healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. This includes foot pain, ingrown toenails, heel pain, flat feet, corns, calluses, fungal infections, and more.

No referral is required to see a podiatrist privately. However, if you’re eligible for Medicare rebates under an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan, a referral from your GP is required. Please note: we do not bulk bill, and full payment is required at the time of your appointment.

If you have a valid EPC referral, your Medicare rebate can be processed on the spot using our HICAPS terminal, with the rebate paid directly into your nominated bank account.

We do not offer bulk billing. Patients are required to pay the full consultation fee on the day of their appointment. If you have a valid Medicare Care Plan, we can process your $61.80 Medicare rebate on the spot through our HICAPS terminal, meaning the rebate is paid back into your bank account.

Yes, if your policy covers extras for podiatry. We offer HICAPS on-the-spot claiming for participating funds.

To help us provide the best care during your first podiatry appointment, please bring the following:

– A list of your current medications – including any over-the-counter supplements or treatments.

– Any relevant medical records or referrals – if applicable.

– The shoes you wear most often – especially if you’re coming in for pain, injury, or gait concerns.

– Private health fund card – if you have one.

– Medicare card – if you are using a GP referral under a care plan.

– A list of questions or concerns – to ensure we address everything important to you.

Wearing comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your feet or lower legs is also helpful. If you’re unsure what to bring, feel free to contact our clinic before your visit—we’re happy to help you prepare.

The frequency of podiatrist visits for general skin and nail care depends on your individual needs. For most people, a visit every 6 to 8 weeks is recommended for routine care, such as nail trimming, callus removal, and monitoring for early signs of skin or nail issues.

However, if you have specific health concerns, such as diabetes or poor circulation, more frequent visits (e.g., every 4 to 6 weeks) may be necessary to prevent complications.

Regular visits allow us to spot any potential issues early and help keep your feet healthy and comfortable. If you’re unsure about your needs, our podiatrist can help you determine the right schedule for your foot care.

It is not recommended to cut or remove corns and calluses yourself, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation, as this can lead to infection or serious injury. Medicated corn pads should also be avoided, as they can burn the surrounding healthy skin and cause wounds.

For safe and effective treatment, it’s best to see a podiatrist, who can gently remove corns and calluses using sterile instruments. It’s also important to address the underlying cause, such as improper footwear or gait issues. A podiatrist can help identify the cause and recommend treatments to prevent future problems.

Between appointments, you can maintain healthy feet by using a pumice stone or foot file to gently smooth thickened skin and by moisturising daily to help soften the skin.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. They are commonly caused by:

– Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or rounding the edges)

– Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that put pressure on the toes

– Injury to the toenail, such as stubbing your toe

– Genetic factors, such as naturally curved nails

– Repetitive stress from activities like running or kicking sports

Prevention tips include:

– Trim your toenails straight across and avoid rounding the corners.

– Keep nails at a moderate length — not too short.

– Wear shoes that fit properly and provide enough space for your toes.

– Protect your feet from trauma during activities and sports.

– Maintain good foot hygiene to prevent infections.

If you notice signs of an ingrown toenail, such as redness, swelling, or pain, it’s best to seek early treatment from a podiatrist to avoid further complications.

A fungal nail infection (also known as onychomycosis) can cause noticeable changes to the appearance and health of your nails. Common signs include:

– Discolouration — nails may turn white, yellow, brown, or even black

– Thickened nails that are difficult to trim

– Brittle, crumbly, or ragged edges

– Changes in nail shape or lifting of the nail away from the nail bed

– Odour — affected nails may give off a mild or unpleasant smell

– Pain or discomfort, especially if the infection becomes severe

Fungal nail infections often develop slowly and may affect one or several nails. Early treatment is recommended, as infections are easier to manage before they become advanced.

If you notice any of these changes in your nails, it’s best to book an appointment with a podiatrist. We can diagnose the condition accurately and recommend the most effective treatment options.

Ingrown toenail surgery is generally a quick and well-tolerated procedure with minimal discomfort. Before the procedure begins, the toe is carefully numbed with a local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain during the treatment itself.

After the anaesthetic wears off, some mild tenderness or throbbing may occur, but this is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and proper aftercare.

Our podiatrists ensure you are well-supported throughout your treatment and provide clear instructions to help you heal quickly and comfortably.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on your feet, often causing itching, burning, redness, and peeling. It’s caused by fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments, like sweaty shoes and public places such as locker rooms or swimming pools.

Common causes of athlete’s foot include:

– Walking barefoot in damp public areas, such as gyms, pools, and showers

– Wearing tight, non-breathable shoes that trap moisture

– Not drying feet thoroughly after showering or bathing

– Having sweaty feet or wearing socks that don’t wick away moisture

Prevention tips include:

– Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between your toes

– Wear moisture-wicking socks and change them regularly

– Choose well-ventilated shoes made from breathable materials

– Avoid walking barefoot in public places like gyms and pool areas

– Use antifungal powder or spray to help prevent infection, especially if you’re prone to athlete’s foot

If you develop symptoms of athlete’s foot, it’s important to seek treatment early to prevent the infection from spreading. A podiatrist can help with diagnosis and recommend effective antifungal treatments.

Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that are tailored to your unique foot structure and specific needs. For many people, they can provide significant benefits, especially if you suffer from foot pain, discomfort, or conditions like flat feet, high arches, or plantar fasciitis.

The benefits of custom orthotics include:

– Improved comfort: Orthotics provide cushioning and support that helps reduce pressure on painful areas of your feet.

– Better alignment: They help correct foot alignment issues, which can improve posture and reduce pain in the feet, knees, hips, and lower back.

– Enhanced performance: If you’re an athlete or active, custom orthotics can improve your movement efficiency and reduce the risk of injuries.

– Long-term relief: Unlike over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are specifically made for your feet, offering more effective and lasting relief from chronic foot pain.

While the initial cost of custom orthotics may be higher than over-the-counter options, their personalised design and long-term benefits often make them a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re dealing with chronic foot or lower body pain.

If you think custom orthotics might be right for you, schedule a consultation with our podiatrist to discuss your needs and find the best solution for your feet.

Cracked heels, while often a common and minor concern, can lead to more serious problems if left untreated. When the skin on your heels becomes dry and fissured, it can cause discomfort, pain, and even bleeding. In severe cases, cracks can deepen and become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infections.

For individuals with conditions like diabetes or poor circulation, cracked heels can pose a higher risk. Infections may not heal as easily and can lead to more serious complications, such as ulcers or gangrene.

To prevent serious issues, it’s important to:

– Moisturise regularly to keep the skin soft and prevent cracking.

– Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces.

– Wear well-fitting shoes that protect the heels and support foot structure.

– See a podiatrist if cracks become painful, deep, or show signs of infection.

By addressing cracked heels early, you can avoid complications and maintain healthy, comfortable feet. If you’re experiencing cracked heels or other foot issues, contact us today for expert care.

Plantar warts are growths on the soles of your feet caused by a viral infection. The body often struggles to clear the infection on its own, which is why treatment is necessary. Without proper care, the warts can persist, spread, and become increasingly painful.

Treatment options for plantar warts include:

– Topical treatments: Over-the-counter or prescription-strength treatments, like salicylic acid, can help break down the wart tissue. This may take time and requires regular application.

– Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, which destroys the wart tissue and encourages healing. Depending on the size and severity of the wart, multiple treatments may be needed.

– Debridement and application of high-strength salicylic acid: After debridement, a high-strength salicylic acid solution is applied. This is a much stronger concentration than what’s available in over-the-counter products. It works by gradually breaking down the wart tissue, encouraging the body to shed the infected skin. Depending on the size and severity of the wart, multiple treatments may be needed.

Prevention tips:

– Avoid walking barefoot in public areas such as locker rooms, pools, or shared showers to reduce the risk of infection.

– Keep feet dry and change socks regularly to prevent moisture buildup.

If you have a plantar wart that’s causing pain or doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments, it’s best to consult with a podiatrist for professional care and treatment options.