Freedom Journal

A Podiatrist is an allied health practitioner that specialises in treating conditions relating to the foot, ankle and lower leg. Podiatrists are trained in a variety of ways to manage an array of musculoskeletal injuries, skin and nail disorders, and diseases or complications that affect people’s gait (walking patterns).

Top 5 common reasons to see a Podiatrist?

Heel pain or Achilles tendon pain
Foot and ankle arthritis including bunion pain
General nail and skin care including ingrown toenails
Orthotic/biomechanical treatment
Sports injuries such as Ankle sprains and fractures
What type of treatments do the Podiatrists use at Beyond?

Video walking/running assessments
3D pressure assessments
PACT – UV fungal nail therapy
CAM Walkers / Moon Boots
Shockwave Therapy
Foot & Ankle Manipulation
Flexible orthotic devices
Running and strength based exercise programs
Pre or post-surgical rehabilitation
Footwear Assessments
What qualifications do Podiatrist have? And what are their continuing professional development expectations?

In Australia, Podiatrists are required to complete a university Bachelor’s Degree that typically takes between three to four years to complete. Further study that one might take can allow practitioners to specialise in a particular field of interest such as high risk/Diabetes foot and lower leg care, surgery, medication prescription and biomechanics.

Once a Podiatrist is registered under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, it is a requirement that a minimum of 20 hours of continued professional development be met annually. This means that Podiatrists are continually learning new techniques and methods of treatment through a series of categories set out by the Podiatry Association Board’s guidelines. This is to ensure Podiatrist are providing the most up to date and safe methods of treatment to their patients who may be suffering from a foot and ankle complication or disorder.

If you have any questions or wish to arrange an appointment for any foot ankle or leg related injuries, please call Beyond to book an appointment and our podiatrists may assist you to Move Through Life!