Introduction
Podiatrists are allied health professionals who specialise in diagnosing and treating ailments related to the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. You may choose to visit a podiatrist in Sydney to prevent and treat foot conditions such as bone and joint disorders, ingrown toenails, calluses, corns, and other skin and nail disorders.Â
This article explains the pivotal role podiatrist doctors play in the field of medicine, shedding light on their comprehensive capabilities.
What is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist, often referred to as a podiatric physician or foot doctor, is a healthcare specialist dedicated to the meticulous care of the lower extremities. These skilled professionals are well-versed in the intricate anatomy and biomechanics of the feet and lower limbs. They collaborate closely with general practitioners and medical specialists to provide holistic healthcare solutions, especially for patients grappling with conditions that affect the lower limbs, such as diabetes and arthritis.
What Does a Podiatrist Do?
A podiatrist in Sydney can treat you in various ways, from prescribing medications to suggesting specific foot exercises. Some podiatrists specialise in different areas of practice, such as sports podiatry, children podiatry, and workplace health.Â
What Does a Podiatrist Treat?
Before searching for the best podiatrist in Sydney, you must understand the different conditions they can treat.Â
Podiatrists play a key role in maintaining the mobility of elderly patients and disabled individuals. They are a part of the larger healthcare team treating patients for diabetes or arthritis. They monitor the foot health of such patients, preventing any lower limb complications for those living with such underlying medical conditions.Â
A podiatrist also treats all types of nail and skin disorders and acute and chronic nail conditions, such as ingrown toenails. They are involved in the treatment of corns, calluses, and warts.Â
Some of the common foot conditions treated by a podiatrist doctor are:
- Fungal toenail infections
- Ingrown toenails
- Corns and calluses
- Dry and cracked heels
- Verrucas and warts
- Bunions
- Claw and hammer toes
- Flat feet
- In-toeing and out-toeing
- Heel pain and heel spurs
- Blisters
- Shin splints
- Gout
- Running and sports injuries
When Do You Need To See a Podiatrist?
If you experience ankle pain or foot pain, a podiatrist in Sydney is someone you should consult.Â
Here are some compelling reasons to see a podiatrist:
- Thickened or discolored nails
- Cracked skin on your feet
- Heel or arch pain
- Balance problems
- Corns and warts on your feet
What To Know Before Booking a Podiatrist Appointment?
You can visit a podiatrist either independently or after being referred to one by your general practitioner. If you are worried about the cost of treatment, find out whether the podiatric clinic offers a bulk billing facility.Â
Before booking your appointment, find a podiatrist in Sydney with bulk billing. Such clinics will send the bill directly to Medicare, ensuring the patient doesn’t have to pay any out-of-pocket costs. Some clinics might bulk bill the Medicare cost and ask the patient to pay for the balance.  Â
Before booking your appointment, enquire about the podiatric clinic’s payment policy to be ready for any expenses.
Conclusion
Podiatrists are allied healthcare professionals specialising in the well-being of our feet, ankles, and lower limbs. They work hand in hand with doctors to address a wide range of conditions, from common issues like ingrown toenails and corns to more complex matters such as diabetes-related complications.Â
If you are looking for the best podiatrist in Sydney to treat any of your foot injuries or infections, reach out to us at Poet’s Corner Medical Centre.Â
