FAQs
> What is podiatry and what does a podiatrist do?
Podiatry deals with the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of medical and surgical conditions of the feet and lower limbs.
Podiatrists are able to diagnose and treat conditions which affect the lower limb. Injuries gained through sport or other activities are also diagnosed and treated by podiatrists. Basically, if it is related to feet, we can help.
In Queensland, it is a requirement that all practitioners register to practice with the State Registration Board. To be eligible for registration practitioners must have completed a four year podiatry education program or equivalent in an approved school of department of podiatry (in Queensland this is a 4-year bachelor degree at Queensland University of Technology).
> Do I need a referral?
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.
> Will my private health insurance cover podiatry?
The majority of Australian private health funds cover podiatry. We recommend you contact your fund to check your level of cover. We offer HICAPS facility which enables on-the-spot rebates from your health fund at the time of your consultation.
> Will I be covered under Medicare?
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.
> Is treatment painful?
NO! Most podiatric procedures are performed without pain. In fact, many people are surprised that they don’t feel anything to have corns, callus reduced and ingrown nails removed. If required, podiatrists are qualified to administer local anaesthesia for more painful conditions (e.g. nail surgery).
> What are orthotics?
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 cast 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, 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, we believe that orthoses are suitable only in some cases, and are only one part of your treatment plan.
> What is prolotherapy?
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.
> Should I be concerned about my child’s flat feet/low arches?
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.
