Est. 1990 | 65,500 Patients Treated Successfully.
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Podiatry Care That Delivers Real Results
Choosing a podiatrist isn’t just about finding a good price. It’s about trust, feeling heard, and knowing you’re in expert hands. Since 1990, this warm and welcoming collective has supported over 65,000 patients, earning hundreds of heartfelt 5-star reviews from locals who value genuine care, clear communication, and lasting results.
At this vibrant hub, every practitioner is committed to your well-being—not just as a patient, but as a person. Whether you’re here for pain relief, improved mobility, or preventative care, you’ll experience a level of dedication that goes beyond expectations.
Why So Many Locals Choose Us:
Reputation You Can Trust – Hundreds of 5-star reviews speak for themselves
Experienced, AHPRA-Registered Podiatrist – Clinical skill and deep care combined
Old-School Attention Meets Modern Tools – Hands-on care using the latest techniques
Affordable & Accessible – Fair pricing with health fund rebates
Bulk-Billed Imaging – No out-of-pocket cost for referred X-rays
Same-Day Appointments – Easy online booking and fast access
No Rush, No Confusion – Clear communication, plenty of time, no pressure
Satisfaction Guarantee – We only accept cases we know we can help
Not Sure Whether You Need a Podiatrist?
Speak directly with Consultant Podiatrist Dr Husein for clear, obligation-free advice tailored to your needs—so you can make confident, informed choices.
Instant claims with all major health funds — you only pay the gap
Meet the Podiatrist
Consultant podiatrist Dr Husein Al Zurifi brings extensive experience in general and biomechanical podiatry, with a focus on treating the root cause of foot and leg pain. Rather than relying solely on orthotics, Dr Husein uses movement-based assessments and neurofeedback principles to help retrain the way your foot moves—often reducing the need for long-term orthotic use.
Meet Dr Husein Al Zurifi
Dr Husein Al Zurifi – Bachelor of Podiatry. Member of the Australian Podiatry Association
We’re proud to welcome Husein Al Zurifi, a consultant podiatrist now practising within the Brunswick Health collective.
Dr Husein is known for delivering high-quality, patient-centred foot care with a calm, compassionate approach. Whether you’re experiencing general foot pain or dealing with more complex biomechanical concerns, Husein offers personalised, evidence-based treatment with a genuine focus on improving long-term mobility and wellbeing.
Now consulting in Brunswick, Husein supports people of all ages and backgrounds with tailored care that prioritises both function and comfort.
Qualifications and Rich Background
Husein holds a Bachelor of Podiatry from the University of South Australia and has gained experience through a wide range of clinical settings across metropolitan and regional Victoria. His professional journey has included rural outreach placements, multidisciplinary practices, and podiatry clinics serving both general and athletic populations.
His training and continued professional development include:
Advanced rural clinical placements through UniSA Rural Health
Ongoing education in musculoskeletal therapy, orthotic design, and sports rehabilitation
This well-rounded foundation enables Husein to treat a broad scope of foot and lower limb conditions with precision and care.
What Areas Of Practice is Dr Husein Most Passionate About?
Husein has a strong interest in musculoskeletal conditions, sports injuries, and performance optimisation, while maintaining a broad clinical scope. He is experienced in assessing and managing a wide range of podiatric concerns, including:
Plantar fasciitis, heel and arch pain
Tendinopathies and joint stiffness
Foot and ankle sports injuries
Postural and gait abnormalities
Biomechanical dysfunction and custom orthotic prescription
Flat feet, bunions, and arch support
Ingrown toenails and minor nail surgery
Nail disorders, corns, and callus care
Diabetic foot assessments and ulcer prevention
In managing biomechanical issues, Husein takes a functional, movement-based approach—drawing on neurofeedback principles to optimise foot and lower limb mechanics. This allows him to often reduce the long-term reliance on orthotic devices by addressing the underlying movement patterns contributing to dysfunction.
He also incorporates advanced techniques such as shockwave therapy, dry needling, manual joint mobilisation, and therapeutic ultrasound to accelerate healing and support long-term recovery.
What Modalities Does Dr Husein Use?
In his podiatry practice, Husein combines clinical precision with a comprehensive and patient-focused approach. He routinely performs minor surgical procedures such as ingrown toenail surgery and nail avulsions, and manages common foot concerns including corns, calluses, and fungal nails. Husein also provides detailed biomechanical assessments and prescribes custom orthotics to treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and heel pain.
His treatment plans often incorporate hands-on therapies like myofascial release and dry needling, as well as advanced modalities such as shockwave therapy and therapeutic ultrasound. These techniques help reduce pain, improve mobility, and accelerate soft tissue healing—particularly for chronic or recurring foot and ankle issues. Every treatment is tailored to the individual’s unique foot structure, lifestyle, and long-term goals, ensuring effective and lasting results.
What To Expect During Your Podiatry Visits
Wondering what happens during your first podiatry visit? At your initial consultation with Dr Husein Al Zurifi, you’ll receive a thorough assessment that looks beyond just your symptoms. Using a functional, movement-based approach, Dr Husein identifies the root causes of your foot or leg pain—whether it’s biomechanical issues, poor movement patterns, or footwear-related strain. This ensures your treatment plan is personalised, evidence-based, and designed to reduce long-term reliance on orthotics wherever possible.
What to Expect During Your Initial Podiatry Visit
Getting to Know You First
Your initial podiatry consultation with Dr Husein Al Zurifi is more than just a foot check. He’ll take the time to understand your lifestyle, daily activities, and long-term goals. This whole-body approach helps identify how underlying movement patterns, footwear habits, or postural issues may be contributing to your symptoms.
Thorough Assessment
Dr Husein conducts a detailed, hands-on assessment that may include gait analysis, joint mobility testing, muscle strength evaluation, and neurological screening. His functional focus goes beyond surface-level symptoms to uncover the root cause of your foot, heel, or lower limb issue—whether it’s biomechanical, inflammatory, or movement-related.
Targeted Hands-On Treatment
Treatment often begins from your first visit and may include a combination of:
Myofascial release and joint mobilisation to reduce stiffness and restore movement
Dry needling for muscular tension or chronic pain
Shockwave therapy to accelerate soft tissue healing
Offloading techniques or temporary padding to reduce strain and relieve pressure
Reducing Reliance on Orthotics
Where orthotics are needed, Dr Husein designs them using neurofeedback and movement-based insights. His goal is to retrain your biomechanics and reduce long-term dependency on devices by addressing the root of dysfunction.
Personalised Advice & Ongoing Care
You’ll receive practical guidance on footwear, self-management strategies, and corrective exercises to support your progress between visits. Dr Husein also outlines a clear treatment plan, including expected outcomes and whether follow-up sessions or imaging may be recommended.
What to Expect During Your Second Podiatry Visit
After your first consultation, your second podiatry visit with Dr Husein Al Zurifi builds on the foundation already set. This is where your treatment plan is refined based on your response, and more targeted strategies are introduced—including surgical and non-surgical care.
Review and Feedback
Your visit begins with a check-in on how you’ve responded since your first session. Whether you’ve had conservative treatment or a minor procedure (such as ingrown toenail removal or callus debridement), Dr Husein will assess your healing, comfort, and any ongoing symptoms to guide the next steps.
Reassessment and Progress Tracking
Dr Husein may reassess key indicators such as pressure points, gait, and joint mobility—or inspect surgical sites if a procedure was recently performed. This helps evaluate the effectiveness of initial care and ensures wound sites or pain points are healing appropriately.
Advancing Your Treatment Plan
Depending on your progress, Dr Husein may continue with soft tissue work, update your home care plan, or schedule additional procedures if needed—such as ongoing care for corns, bunions, or chronic nail issues. He may also refine your biomechanical management, including foot posture correction and custom orthotic adjustments.
Functional Movement & Post-Surgical Recovery
For patients recovering from foot surgery or dealing with chronic mechanical issues, Dr Husein uses movement-based assessments and neurofeedback principles to retrain gait and reduce unnecessary load. This helps support recovery while aiming to reduce future reliance on long-term orthotic devices.
Patient Education & At-Home Advice
You’ll receive practical aftercare advice tailored to your condition—whether it’s dressing care post-surgery, footwear guidance, or tips to offload painful areas. This visit is also an opportunity to address any concerns or questions you may have.
Refining Goals & Treatment Frequency
Your second visit is a key checkpoint for refining short-term goals—like returning to sport, reducing morning pain, or improving nail health. Dr Husein will also map out your next few appointments, particularly if a staged treatment plan is needed for ongoing issues like callus formation or recurring ingrown nails.
Podiatry Services Offered
Dr Husein Al Zurifi offers a comprehensive range of podiatry services, covering everything from routine foot care to biomechanical correction and minor surgery. His approach blends hands-on treatment with movement analysis to help you get lasting results—not just short-term relief.
General & Preventative Foot Care
- Corn and callus removal
- Fungal nail treatment
- Cracked heels
- Routine nail care and skin maintenance
- Diabetic foot assessments and education
- Ulcer prevention and risk management
Minor Surgical Procedures
- Ingrown toenail surgery (partial or total nail avulsion)
- Nail resection and dressing for infected or inflamed nail folds
- Wart treatments
- Debridement of thickened nails or painful calluses
Musculoskeletal & Biomechanical Management
- Gait and postural assessments
- Management of plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, and heel spurs
- Flat feet, high arches, and arch support issues
- Knee, hip, or back pain related to poor foot mechanics
- Shin splints and sports-related injuries
- Functional retraining and movement correction
Orthotics & Offloading
- Custom orthotics designed using neurofeedback and movement insights
- Offloading for bunions, metatarsalgia, or heel pain
- Taping or bracing for specific conditions (e.g. plantar fasciitis or PTTD)
- Footwear advice to support recovery and prevent recurrence
Advanced Therapies
- Shockwave therapy for chronic pain and tendon issues
- Therapeutic ultrasound for soft tissue healing
- Dry needling for muscular tension and trigger point relief
- Joint mobilisation and myofascial release techniques
- neurofeedback principles to retrain gait and reduce unnecessary load. This helps support recovery while aiming to reduce future reliance on long-term orthotic devices.
Patient Education & At-Home Advice
You’ll receive practical aftercare advice tailored to your condition—whether it’s dressing care post-surgery, footwear guidance, or tips to offload painful areas. This visit is also an opportunity to address any concerns or questions you may have.
Refining Goals & Treatment Frequency
Your second visit is a key checkpoint for refining short-term goals—like returning to sport, reducing morning pain, or improving nail health. Dr Husein will also map out your next few appointments, particularly if a staged treatment plan is needed for ongoing issues like callus formation or recurring ingrown nails.
Understanding Podiatry
Podiatry is the branch of healthcare that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. From everyday foot pain to complex biomechanical issues, podiatrists play a vital role in helping people stay mobile, active, and pain-free.
Dr Husein Al Zurifi’s podiatry care goes beyond routine foot maintenance. He combines traditional podiatric treatment with a functional, movement-based approach—helping patients not only relieve symptoms but also correct the underlying causes of pain or dysfunction.
Podiatrists are qualified to manage a wide range of issues, including:
Skin and nail disorders (corns, calluses, ingrown nails, fungal infections)
Foot and ankle injuries
Gait and posture problems
Heel and arch pain
Sports-related foot conditions
Diabetic foot complications
Whether you’re dealing with a minor issue or a chronic condition, seeing a podiatrist early can prevent problems from becoming worse. At Brunswick Health, Dr Husein aims to empower his patients through education, tailored treatment, and long-term strategies to improve movement and reduce future complications.
What Our Podiatry Satisfaction Guarantee Covers
As an independent podiatrist working within the Brunswick Health collective, Dr Husein Al Zurifi is personally invested in delivering high-quality care and achieving the best possible outcomes for his patients. He’s not an employee, but a dedicated practitioner who takes full responsibility for the service he provides.
If, for any reason, your initial podiatry consultation does not meet your expectations, you’re welcome to request a 100% refund within 7 days of your appointment — no questions asked.
⚠️ Please note: This guarantee covers your service experience, not treatment outcomes, which can vary depending on your individual condition and response to care.
This guarantee reflects Dr Husein’s commitment to providing honest, personalised, and professional care — so you can feel confident and supported in every step of your podiatry journey.
→ Learn more about our Satisfaction Guarantee
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Podiatry Rehabilitation: Lower Leg Solutions
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Podiatry - FAQs
Browse our General Podiatry FAQs for quick answers to common questions. Still need help? Feel free to call us, chat with our online assistant, or send us an email — we’re here to support you.
What Conditions Can Podiatry Treat?
Podiatrists are qualified to diagnose and treat a wide array of conditions related to the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. Some common conditions they address include:
- Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that connects the heel to the front of the foot, causing heel pain.
- Bunions: Painful bony bumps that develop on the joint at the base of the big toe.
- Ingrown Toenails: When the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain and possible infection. Find out about non-surgical ONYFIX® nail correction here
- Diabetic Foot Care: Management of foot-related complications in individuals with diabetes, including ulcers and infections due to poor circulation and neuropathy.
- Heel Spurs: Calcium deposits that form on the underside of the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Athlete’s Foot: A fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, causing itching, redness, and cracking.
- Flat Feet and High Arches: Structural foot issues that can lead to discomfort and affect walking and posture.
- Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints in the feet, causing pain, swelling, and restricted movement.
- Sports Injuries: Including sprains, strains, and fractures related to physical activities.
- Corns and Calluses: Thickened skin layers that form on the feet due to friction or pressure.
- Hammer Toes: A deformity where a toe is bent at the middle joint.
- Fungal Nail Infections: Fungal growth under the nails, leading to discolouration, thickening, and crumbling.
- Gait Abnormalities: Problems with walking patterns that can lead to discomfort and dysfunction in the feet and lower limbs.
- Morton’s Neuroma: A painful condition involving the thickening of tissue around a nerve leading to the toes.
Podiatrists use various treatments, such as physical therapy, custom-made orthotics, medications, and sometimes minor surgery, to manage and alleviate these conditions, aiming to improve foot health and functionality.
Is Podiatry Treatment Painful?
The answer can vary depending on the type of treatment, the individual’s condition, and their pain tolerance. Many podiatric treatments are non-invasive and focus on relieving pain and discomfort, such as custom orthotics for foot alignment, physical therapy, and medication for inflammation and pain.
For some conditions, particularly those requiring surgical intervention, there may be some discomfort during recovery. Podiatrists are skilled at minimising pain and discomfort, often using local anaesthetics for procedures and prescribing appropriate pain management strategies post-procedure.
If you have specific concerns about pain related to a podiatric condition or treatment, it’s best to discuss these directly with a podiatrist, who can provide information tailored to your situation.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The number of sessions you might need with a podiatrist depends on various factors, including the nature and severity of your condition, your body’s response to treatment, and whether you’re undergoing conservative management or surgical intervention. Here’s a general guide:
For Minor Conditions: Issues like mild ingrown toenails, minor fungal infections, or temporary pain might require only one to a few sessions.
Chronic Conditions: Chronic or more complex issues such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or diabetic foot care often require ongoing management. This could involve regular visits over several months or longer to monitor the condition and adjust treatments as necessary.
Post-Surgical Care: If surgery is involved, you’ll likely need several follow-up appointments to monitor healing, remove stitches, and begin rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: Conditions requiring physical therapy may need multiple sessions spread over weeks or months, tailored to your progress and specific rehabilitation goals.
Each individual’s situation is unique, and a podiatrist will provide a more accurate estimate after assessing your condition. It’s important to discuss your treatment plan and expectations directly with your podiatrist to understand the anticipated course of treatment.
Do I Need a Referral from a Medical Doctor?
Seeing a podiatrist usually doesn’t require a referral since they are primary health practitioners, accredited by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) due to their extensive training, which includes a rigorous 5-year university degree.
However, for treatment under Medicare’s Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program, now commonly known as the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program, a GP referral is necessary to claim the EPC rebate. This program allows individuals with chronic conditions, lasting or expected to last six months or more, to access Medicare rebates for allied health services like podiatry. Eligibility requires management by a GP under a GP Management Plan (GPMP) and Team Care Arrangements (TCAs).
The process under the EPC/CDM program involves:
GP Management Plan: Your GP evaluates your condition and, if eligible, develops a tailored GP Management Plan.
Team Care Arrangements: For those needing services from other healthcare providers, such as a podiatrist, the GP will set up Team Care Arrangements involving at least two other health professionals.
Referral to a Podiatrist: With an EPC/CDM referral, you’re entitled to up to five allied health services per year. The referral will detail the number of covered sessions.
Medicare Rebates: Visiting a podiatrist with an EPC/CDM referral makes you eligible for Medicare rebates, currently around $59 per session, for a specified number of sessions. A gap fee, the difference between the podiatrist’s fee and the Medicare rebate, may apply.
Since rebate availability and processes can change, it’s recommended to check the current requirements and procedures with your GP for podiatry services under the EPC/CDM program.
AHPRA ensures that all registered health practitioners, including podiatrists, meet national standards for education, competence, care, and ethics, maintaining the quality and integrity of healthcare in Australia.
Is Podiatry Covered by Health Insurance?
Podiatry services can be covered by health insurance, but the extent of coverage depends on your specific health insurance policy and the level of extras cover you have chosen. In general, many private health insurance plans offer some level of coverage for podiatry services under their extras or ancillary cover. Here’s what you typically need to consider:
Level of Cover: Different health insurance policies offer varying levels of extras cover, which can affect the amount and type of podiatry services covered. Higher levels of extras cover usually provide greater benefits for podiatry services.
Annual Limits: Most health insurance plans have annual limits on how much you can claim for podiatry services. Once you reach this limit, you’ll need to cover any additional costs out of pocket until the limit resets, usually at the start of a new policy year.
Waiting Periods: Some insurance policies include waiting periods for new members, meaning you’ll need to wait a certain amount of time after joining before you can claim benefits for podiatry services.
Gap Payments: Even if podiatry services are covered, you may still be required to pay a gap fee, which is the difference between the podiatrist’s fee and what your insurance policy covers.
Specific Treatments Covered: Insurance policies may cover general podiatry consultations and treatments, but more specialised services or treatments might only be covered under higher levels of extras cover, or not at all.
To understand the specifics of your coverage for podiatry services, it’s best to review your health insurance policy details or contact your insurance provider directly. They can provide detailed information about what is covered, any applicable waiting periods, annual limits, and whether any gap payments may apply.
Can Podiatry Help Prevent Injuries?
Yes, podiatry can play a significant role in preventing injuries, particularly those related to the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. Podiatrists are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat various foot and lower limb conditions, offering valuable interventions to prevent injuries. Here’s how podiatry can help in injury prevention:
Biomechanical Assessments: Podiatrists conduct detailed evaluations of foot mechanics and overall lower limb function. By identifying and correcting biomechanical imbalances, they can help prevent injuries caused by poor alignment, abnormal gait patterns, or improper foot function.
Custom Orthotics: For those with structural abnormalities or specific foot conditions, podiatrists can prescribe custom orthotics. These specially designed insoles fit into shoes to support, align, and improve the function of the feet and lower limbs, reducing the risk of injuries.
Footwear Advice: Proper footwear is crucial for preventing foot and ankle injuries. Podiatrists can provide expert advice on selecting shoes that offer the right support, fit, and cushioning, tailored to your activities and needs.
Strengthening and Conditioning: Podiatrists may recommend specific exercises to strengthen the muscles around the feet and ankles, improving stability and reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
Sports Injury Prevention: For athletes or those engaged in regular physical activity, podiatrists can offer strategies to prevent sports-related injuries. This may include advice on appropriate footwear, warm-up and cool-down exercises, and techniques to improve balance and agility.
Management of Pre-existing Conditions: By effectively managing pre-existing foot conditions such as flat feet, high arches, or previous injuries, podiatrists can help prevent further complications or injuries.
Education: Podiatrists provide valuable education on foot care practices, helping individuals maintain healthy feet and avoid situations that could lead to injuries.
Through a combination of clinical expertise, customised treatment plans, and preventive advice, podiatry can significantly reduce the risk of injuries and help maintain optimal foot and lower limb health.
What's the Difference Between Podiatry and Chiropody?
In Australia, the term “podiatry” is the standard and recognised term for the profession that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of medical and surgical conditions of the feet and lower limbs. The distinction between “chiropody” and “podiatry” largely reflects historical and regional differences, but in Australia, “podiatry” encompasses the full scope of foot and lower limb healthcare.
Australian podiatrists are highly trained healthcare professionals who complete a university degree in podiatry. Their training covers a wide range of areas, including biomechanics, pharmacology, general medicine, and surgery. This enables Australian podiatrists to offer comprehensive foot care, ranging from treating common conditions like ingrown toenails and calluses to more complex procedures such as corrective surgery for foot deformities and the management of sports injuries.
The term “chiropody” is less commonly used in Australia and is considered somewhat outdated. While it may still be recognised by some, it is not the preferred term within the professional community. The evolution of the profession to “podiatry” in Australia reflects the expanded scope of practice and the advanced clinical skills that podiatrists bring to patient care, including their ability to perform surgical procedures and manage systemic diseases that can affect foot health, such as diabetes.
In summary, in Australia, the term “podiatry” is used to describe the profession that provides specialised care for the feet and lower limbs, with a focus on preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions associated with this part of the body.
Do I See A Podiatrist Or Physiotherapist For My Foot Problem?
Deciding whether to see a podiatrist or a physiotherapist for a foot problem depends on the specific nature and symptoms of your issue. Here’s a guideline to help you choose the most appropriate professional:
Podiatrist:
Specialisation: Podiatrists specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions specifically related to the foot, ankle, and lower limb. Their training is focused exclusively on the feet and lower limbs.
Conditions Treated: They treat a wide range of foot problems, including but not limited to bunions, heel pain, ingrown toenails, fungal infections, diabetic foot care, and structural issues like flat feet or high arches.
Treatments Offered: Podiatrists can provide specialised treatments such as custom orthotics, nail surgery, and in some cases, minor foot surgery. They also offer advice on proper foot care and footwear.
Physiotherapist:
Specialisation: Physiotherapists focus on movement and function throughout the body. They help patients recover from injuries, reduce pain and stiffness, and increase mobility.
Conditions Treated: A physiotherapist can treat a range of musculoskeletal problems, including those affecting the feet, but their scope is not limited to just foot and ankle conditions. They also address issues related to muscles, joints, and soft tissues throughout the body.
Treatments Offered: Physiotherapy treatments might include exercises, manual therapy, and advice on movement and posture. For foot-related problems, they may focus on strengthening and rehabilitation exercises to improve function and reduce pain.
Decision Guide:
For specific foot and ankle problems, structural issues, or skin and nail concerns related to the feet, a podiatrist is likely the most suitable to consult.
For issues related to overall movement, muscle strength, or if the foot problem is part of a larger musculoskeletal issue, a physiotherapist might be more appropriate.
In some cases, both podiatrists and physiotherapists can play complementary roles in the management and treatment of foot problems, especially where rehabilitation and specific foot care are both essential.
Can I See A Podiatrist When Pregnant?
Yes, you can see a podiatrist if you’re pregnant. In fact, it can be particularly beneficial to consult a podiatrist during pregnancy due to the various foot-related issues that can arise during this time. Pregnancy can lead to several changes in the body that affect the feet and lower limbs, including:
Swelling (Oedema): Increased fluid retention during pregnancy can lead to swelling in the feet and ankles, which can be uncomfortable and may affect your mobility.
Arch and Heel Pain: The added weight and pressure from pregnancy can lead to foot pain, particularly in the arch and heel, often due to plantar fasciitis or flattening of the feet.
Changes in Foot Size: Some women experience a permanent change in foot size during pregnancy, with feet becoming wider or longer, necessitating a change in footwear.
Varicose Veins: Increased blood volume and pressure on the veins in the legs from the growing uterus can lead to varicose veins, causing discomfort in the legs and feet.
A podiatrist can provide valuable care and advice for managing these and other foot-related issues during pregnancy. Treatments and recommendations may include:
Supportive Footwear: Advice on suitable footwear to accommodate changes in foot size and provide necessary support to alleviate discomfort.
Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter orthotic devices can offer additional support and relieve pressure on the feet and lower limbs.
Exercise and Stretching: Guidance on safe exercises and stretches to help maintain foot health, improve circulation, and reduce swelling.
Management of Foot Pain: Treatments for specific conditions such as plantar fasciitis or arch pain, which might include taping, soft tissue therapies, or gentle mobilisation techniques.
It’s important to inform the podiatrist about your pregnancy so they can tailor their care and treatment recommendations to suit your specific needs during this time. Always consult with your obstetrician or healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or therapy during pregnancy.
Do Podiatrist Perform Surgery?
A general practice podiatrist in a clinic setting typically performs minor surgical procedures under local anaesthesia as part of standard podiatric care. These procedures aim to address common foot issues that don’t require complex surgical intervention, including:
Nail Surgery: Procedures like partial or total nail avulsion are common for treating ingrown toenails. This involves removing part or all of the toenail, and possibly the nail matrix, to prevent future occurrences.
Removal of Soft Tissue Lesions: Minor surgical techniques are used to remove surface-level issues such as warts (verrucae) or small soft tissue masses like fibromas.
Corn and Callus Debridement: While not traditional surgery, the careful scalpel removal of hard skin (calluses) and corns helps reduce thickened skin areas and alleviate pain.
Biopsy of Skin Lesions: A podiatrist may perform a small biopsy to diagnose the nature of a skin lesion, removing a piece of skin for lab analysis.
Foreign Body Removal: This involves extracting objects like splinters that are embedded in the foot.
These procedures typically provide immediate pain relief and address conditions that might lead to more serious issues if left untreated.
For more complex conditions requiring advanced surgical intervention, a general practice podiatrist would refer the patient to a podiatric surgeon or an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle surgery. Examples of complex surgeries include:
Bunion Surgery: Correcting misaligned bones of the big toe and foot to relieve pain and improve function.
Hammer Toe Surgery: Addressing toe deformities where the toe is bent at the middle joint, causing pain and difficulty wearing shoes.
Neuroma Surgery: Removing painful, swollen nerves in the foot, often between the third and fourth toes (Morton’s neuroma).
Plantar Fasciitis Surgery: Considered when conservative treatments fail, this surgery involves releasing part of the plantar fascia ligament to relieve tension and pain.
Flatfoot Reconstruction: Correcting severe flatfoot deformities with techniques like tendon transfers, osteotomies, and joint fusion.
Ankle and Foot Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure using a small camera and instruments to diagnose and treat foot and ankle joint problems.
Soft Tissue Mass and Cyst Removal: Including the excision of ganglion cysts, fibromas, and lipomas.
Arthritis-Related Surgeries: Procedures such as arthrodesis (joint fusion) for pain relief or osteotomies for joint realignment and pain reduction.
Fracture Repair: Ensuring proper alignment and healing of broken bones in the foot and ankle.
The scope of practice, including surgical privileges for podiatrists, varies by state and territory, and not all podiatrists are qualified or choose to perform surgery. Patients should verify their podiatrist’s qualifications and experience in podiatric surgery.
Are Podiatrist Registered in Australia?
In Australia, podiatrists are regulated and registered professionals, governed by the Podiatry Board of Australia under the umbrella of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). AHPRA ensures that all health practitioners, including podiatrists, adhere to consistent national standards for practice and conduct.
To become a practicing podiatrist in Australia, one must complete an accredited university podiatry program, typically culminating in a Bachelor’s degree in Podiatry. Graduates must then apply for registration with the Podiatry Board of Australia via AHPRA, meeting educational and registration standard requirements.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is mandatory for maintaining registration, ensuring podiatrists’ skills and knowledge remain current. This stringent registration process and adherence to professional standards guarantee that podiatrists deliver safe and effective care.
Furthermore, podiatry services are recognised for their therapeutic value by various government programs such as WorkCover, the Transport Accident Commission, Veterans Affairs, and Medicare, which offer rebates for eligible individuals, underlining the profession’s integral role in healthcare.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Seeing an Independent Contractor Podiatrist vs an Employed Podiatrist?
Independent contractor podiatrists — like the one practising at Brunswick Health — are self-employed professionals who operate their own business within a shared health facility. One of the key advantages of this model is that they have a personal stake in your results. Their reputation and livelihood depend entirely on the quality of care they provide, which naturally drives higher levels of attentiveness, communication, and personalised service. In short, only the most dedicated practitioners succeed in this environment.
Unlike employed podiatrists who may work under clinic-wide protocols or time constraints, independent podiatrists often have greater freedom to tailor your treatment to your specific needs. This can result in more customised care and a stronger patient–practitioner relationship.
At Brunswick Health, this model also promotes close collaboration between other independent practitioners such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, and massage therapists — leading to a more cohesive and integrated approach to your care.
The only potential downside? Independent podiatrists may have different availability compared to larger franchise clinics. However, many patients find the higher quality of care and continuity of service more than makes up for this.
If you value personalised attention and a practitioner who’s genuinely invested in your outcome, an independent podiatrist can be a great choice.
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