If you need to see a podiatrist immediately, a referral from your doctor is not necessary. If, however, you wish to claim a rebate from a Department of Veterans Affairs or Medicare plan, you will need a referral from your doctor first.

Sports injuries and your feet

Any sport which involves walking, running, standing or jumping is bound to place great physical demands on your body and particularly on your feet. Injuries to the foot and lower limb make up a high proportion of reported sports injuries in Australia. Common sporting injuries include plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, stress fractures, ankle sprains and shin or knee pain.

Podiatry and sports medicine

In Australia, 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. Podiatrists are able to examine and treat the foot and lower limb and possess knowledge of the biomechanics of athletic movement. A podiatrist can diagnose foot conditions and can recommend appropriate footwear, exercise regimens, and orthotic devices which fit into sports shoes.

If you have suffered a sports injury and need to see a podiatrist immediately, you will be able to find one online or in the phone book.