Podiatry

Podiatry is the logical first step for any foot complaints, just as seeing a dentist is first stop for teeth.

Podiatrists are skilled health professionals trained to deal with the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of foot and lower limb conditions. Podiatrists aim to be a part of your overall health care team.
Foot health care can begin at any age. Early detection and management in babies and children can help to reduce foot problems in later life.

Services

The podiatrists at MCHS provide the following services to people of all ages:

• education and information regarding foot care and foot wear
• treatment of various foot conditions, which include skin and nail problems
• minor surgery under local anaesthesia to treat ingrown toenails
• biomechanical assessments to determine if problems exist in the skeletal alignment and musculature of the foot and leg during motion
• issue of specialised insoles such as orthoses, which can assist in correcting or accommodating foot imbalances
• assessment and management of children's foot problems

The Podiatrists also work with local groups to ensure the local community is educated about foot health. Organisations or groups can contact the Podiatrist at their nearest centre to make arrangements.

Eligibility

Everyone is welcome to contact the service for an initial podiatry assessment.
The program particularly targets children, people with complex foot and/or health problems, frail aged people, and people with disabilities.
New podiatry clients over 18 years of age are requested to have a medical assessment sheet completed by their doctor before assessment by the podiatrist.
The initial podiatry appointment involves consideration of the client's presenting foot complaint and his/her general medical history. This assessment consequently determines the overall management plan for the client.
Education, self-management techniques and preventative measures are an integral part of the podiatry consultation.

Foot care Tips!

• Wash your feet daily. Rinse of all soap and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• If for some reason you cannot dry between the toes properly, apply methylated spirits - this should help (use a spray bottle to make this easier).
• Protect your feet from injury - treat any foot injury promptly.
• Inspect your feet daily.
• Trim toe nails straight across, and not too short. Don't cut out or dig at corners.
• Don't buy a shoe if it feels too tight. It will not stretch to fit your foot. Wear shoes that fit.
• Switch shoes from day to day.
• Choose socks or stockings which are made mainly of natural fibres such as cotton or wool with no more than 25% synthetic fibres.
• See your podiatrist if you experience any foot problems.