Podiatrist Foot Care FAQs

What is the difference between a podiatrist and a chiropodist?

Not much. Chiropodists changed their name to podiatrists in 1977. Podiatrists are able to look after all of your foot and ankle complaints from knee pain to heel pain (Plantar Fasciitis).

Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?

No. Anyone can visit a podiatrist although many of our patients have been referred by their general practitioner, physiotherapist, osteopath, chiropractor or other allied health care practitioner. However, if your general practitioner has registered you under the Medicare Plus Programme you will need a referral. See our information under Medicare.

Does Medicare cover podiatry?

It does but not for all patients. In 2004 the Federal government introduced the Medicare Plus Programme to provide limited cover for patients with long term chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, etc. The Medicare Plus programme allows for five visits to a podiatrist per calendar year for eligible patients. Please feel free to contact us regarding this scheme. See our  Medicare  page for more information.

Do private health funds cover podiatry?

Yes, all major Australian health funds cover podiatry if you have the relevant extras cover. It is important to check your level of cover to determine your rebate. We are able to process your claims on the spot at our clinic through our HICAPS system.

What are Orthotics?

Foot orthotics are inserts for the shoes that are designed to support, align, and improve the function of the foot. They are also (more correctly) referred to as orthoses. Orthotics fit comfortably inside your shoes. There are many different kinds of orthotics. The orthotics we usually recommend are prescription devices, made from a plaster cast of your feet that will ultimately be fashioned into a laste on which the orthotics will be made. Measurements are taken of your alignment characteristics and of how you walk and run so that the orthotics will suit your individual needs and the way your body moves.

Who wears Orthotics?

People of all ages with a variety of problems of the feet or lower leg wear orthotics. Sports people are often prescribed orthotics by their podiatrist to correct their gait pattern, to help maximize their performance and to help their recovery from injury. Anyone suffering from chronic foot pain such as Plantar Fasciitis or a lower limb condition which is limiting their mobility or independence, may benefit from wearing orthotics.

When are Orthotics used?

Our podiatrists may prescribe orthotics for your particular foot problem after a comprehensive assessment. They will consider the way your body moves (your biomechanics), your footwear, and your occupational and lifestyle environment. Orthoses provide long-term solutions in the treatment and prevention of corns, calluses and ulceration by redistributing the pressure of the body's weight on the feet. Orthoses also help with the rehabilitation of acute and chronic foot conditions such as tendinosis, recurrent ankle sprains and stress fractures, by providing consistent postural control.

A personalized approach

If orthotics are recommended, our podiatrist will design a care plan for you. This plan will outline your diagnosis, the type of orthotics that you have been prescribed, proposed footwear to wear with your orthotics, lifestyle changes you may need to make, as well as any additional treatment which may be required to enhance your recovery.

What type of orthotics?

There are two primary types of orthotics: over-the-counter (generic) devices such as those sold in shoe shops, chemists and some podiatry clinics, and custom made devices (both soft and firm) which are far more complex and are made specifically for your feet. These are available in a variety of shapes and styles to suit your lifestyle and footwear.

Custom made orthotics versus over-the-counter orthotics?

Custom made orthotics are the result of your relevant history, a biomechanical assessment of your gait and plaster casts of your feet. The shell of our custom made orthotics are created from polypropylene or carbon fibre, materials which are harder wearing and last at least 3-5 years for adults, usually longer with normal wear. Because these devices are custom made they will accommodate your lifestyle and level of physical activity. Custom made orthotics can also be adjusted as required, usually after 12 to 18 months of use. See also our information sheet about uncomfortable orthoses.

Over-the-counter (OTC) devices are of a generic design and are sized from small to extra large. These devices generally have a shorter life than custom made orthotics. Whilst OTC orthotics do not offer the same level of specificity of function they can offer quick and short term pain relief.

We offer a range of orthotics at the Brunswick Foot Clinic, dependent upon the nature of the problem being treated, the cause of the problem and the lifestyle of our patient. A thorough biomechanical assessment of the patient is always essential before a decision on the most appropriate style of orthotics can be made.

Is it important to have my child’s feet assessed?

Yes, especially if your child trips over a lot, complains of sore feet, knee pain or leg pain after sport, or complains that their shoes hurt. These are all signs that something is not right and the child should be professionally assessed by a podiatrist before the problem becomes worse. See our information sheet about Children's feet. 

How often should I visit a podiatrist?

You should think of your feet the same way you think about your teeth. Prevention is better than cure so be sure to have regular check ups. We recommend that you have your feet checked at least once a year. This is even more important if you have orthoses as they may need adjusting.  Those of you who suffer from more complex conditions such as diabetes or lymphoedema, should have your feet checked much more frequently. Any problems or soreness should be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible to avoid further injury.