The Foot and Ankle Clinic

Can I claim on private health insurance?

Yes, this is no different than usual and simply depends on whom you are insured with and what level of cover you have. You can claim your usual percentage of rebate up to the maximum entitlement as per the calendar year for custom orthotic therapy. So, in essence, you will not be out-of-pocket and more or less than you would previously have been prescribed and fitted only 1 pair of orthotics.

What is the difference between a podiatrist and a chiropodist?

In 1977, chiropody changed to podiatry, therefore chiropody (pronounced Kir-opody), as a profession ceased to exist. Although the profession changed, chiropodists at that time simply took on the name change, and in some cases did not further continue their education. Some such practitioners still practice as podiatrists today.

What do podiatrists do?

General podiatry treatment address heel, arch and forefoot pain, knee and lower leg problems, assessment of children and postural problems, occupational and sporting injuries, diabetic and arthritic related problems, Veterans' affairs, TAC, WorkCover, Medicare plus and Victorian aids & equipment program, biomechanical assessments, podiatric surgery, footwear advice, laser treatment for fungal nails, extracorporeal shockwave therapy for heel pain.

What is a corn?

A corn is the thickening of the outer layer of skin. This is usually the result of pressure. Poor or ill-fitting footwear & ill-shaped feet & toes are the major causes. A corn is not a living tissue or infection. Your podiatrist can often painlessly remove these lesions & help to remove the pressure that has caused this problem by using padding; Silipos toe sleeves, shoe inserts & footwear modifications. In extreme cases, surgical intervention is required to correct any structural abnormalities.

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a deformity that usually occurs at the joint of the big toe. The swelling or enlargement is on the inner side of the foot. Bunions may occasionally develop in the bone that joins the little toe to the foot. Bunions usually develop gradually, but continuously, and shoes rubbing against the enlarged bone will cause pain. There may be swelling, redness and deep aching pain associated with the bunion joint.

How can I benefit from podiatry?

You can benefit from podiatry if you suffer any of the problems like tired, aching & flat feet, corns & callouses, thick & ingrown toenails, bunions & hammer toes, pigeon toes, warts, tinea & foot odour, Achilles pain & shin splints, heel, arch, forefoot & Achilles tendon pain, ankle, leg & knee pain, sporting or occupational injuries, orthotic therapy, diabetic & arthritic-related problems, stress fractures, children's postural problems & growing pains.

I don't wear dress shoes, so can I order 2 pairs of the softer, full-length devices instead of getting a pair of dress shoes?

Yes, we can certainly offer this option as we understand that many people perhaps wear safety boots or casual shoes regularly and would prefer this option. As the full-length devices are more expensive to manufacture, there is a small surcharge for providing this option.

What sort of warranty does the orthotics come with?

We offer a 12-month warranty on defects. So, if for any reason the devices break or are defective they will be repaired or replaced under warranty. This does not include general wear and tear and deterioration of cover materials due to perspiration, dirt etc.

Are The Foot And Ankle Clinic's podiatrists members of the Australian Podiatry Association?

Yes, all of The Foot And Ankle Clinic's practitioners are highly qualified podiatrists who are registered with the national registration board and are members of the Australian Podiatry Association.