Podiatry FAQ

Podiatry is a profession concerned with the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of the foot and lower limb to restore optimal function and performance. While podiatry dates back to the treatment of corns in ancient Egypt, these days podiatrists are called on to assist with all kinds of lower limb problems from corns and calluses through heel spurs, sports related injuries and arthritis issues.

If you have a problem with your lower legs or feet, that seems to have come on for no apparent reason (other than you have been active) you may benefit. Also those that are getting problems because of flat feet, high arches or ‘knock knees’ may be best to start here; or maybe you just wear out your running shoes extremely quickly?

Recurring or persistent pain in the foot or lower leg should be checked by a professional to determine the cause and to avoid the risk of causing further damage before determining the most appropriate treatment options. If you’re based near or working near central Brisbane you‘ll find our Vulture Street location handily located.

Podiatry aims to identify the root cause of your symptoms. Often with a lower limb injury the way your feet are moving may be overloading the body to produce the injury. Treatment directed at correcting this problem is the first step on your road to regaining optimal physical function and relieving your pain.

You will have an analysis of walking and/or running biomechanics (body movement) to investigate posture and lower limb function, which may include a biomechanical and video gait analysis. If an imbalance in the way your foot moves is related to the problems you are having, your podiatrist may discuss several options with you:

Many private health insurance schemes give benefits for podiatry treatment. Reimbursement will depend on the insurer and the plan you have chosen. Contact the helpline of your insurance company who will explain the actual benefits and methods of claim for your individual policy.

We offer HICAPS facility which enables on-the-spot rebates from your health fund at the time of your consultation.

For the majority of people, the answer is no. If however you are a patient under Workcover, Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) or the Enhanced Primary Care Program (EPC), then a referral from your Doctor is required. If you are unsure, please do not hesitate to ask us.

Yes, if you are referred by your GP under the Enhanced Primary Care Program, then you are entitled to a rebate through Medicare. This program covers patients with chronic and complex conditions including diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

Orthotics are specially designed in-shoe devices that correct and control abnormal foot and lower limb function and may also be designed to accommodate and relieve pressure over painful areas. Orthotics can correct biomechanical abnormalities of the feet and lower limb which may contribute to painful conditions.

There are many types of orthoses available including customised (i.e. manufactured from a 3D scan of your feet) and prefabricated devices, as well as various materials from very soft to rigid. The truth is, not one type of orthotic or material is suitable for everyone. At Performance Podiatry & Physiotherapy, our podiatrists have access to a large range of orthotic options, and can prescribe the most appropriate device for you following an extensive assessment of your complaint and biomechanical assessment.

At Performance Podiatry & Physiotherapy, we believe that orthoses are suitable only in some cases, and are only one part of your treatment plan.

Prolotherapy involves injecting an irritant solution into the body, generally in the region of tendons or ligaments, for the purpose of strengthening weakened connective tissue and alleviating musculoskeletal pain. Prolotherapy is a simple, natural technique that stimulates the body to repair the painful area when the natural healing process needs a little assistance.

Prolotherapy may assist with treatment of conditions such as Achilles tendinosis, knee pain and arthritis, heel pain, chronic ankle sprains and other painful conditions of the feet.

A child’s feet change dramatically as they develop. Children are born with ‘flabby feet’, where fatty tissue obscures the arch. A lower arched foot is considered to be normal and is part of normal development up to about age 6. Probably more important is how your child’s feet function – do they constantly trip, scuff their feet or wear shoes unevenly? Do they complain of pain? Don’t let people tell you your child’s pains are just “growing pains” – pain in children is not normal.

If you are concerned, then a consultation with our podiatrists is a small fee to pay for peace of mind.