Geelong Podiatrists define podiatry

A definition of podiatry

Podiatry is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions and disorders related to the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. A health professional who specializes in podiatry is known as a podiatrist.

Podiatrists are trained to address a wide range of issues concerning the lower limbs, including:

Foot and ankle injuries: Podiatrists can treat fractures, sprains, and other injuries to the feet and ankles.

Foot deformities: Conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet can be diagnosed and treated by podiatrists.

Skin and nail problems: Podiatrists can manage issues like ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and calluses.

Diabetes foot care: Podiatrists play a crucial role in monitoring and managing foot problems in individuals with diabetes, as diabetes can lead to complications in the feet.

Sports-related injuries: Athletes often seek the expertise of podiatrists for sports injuries and biomechanical assessments to improve performance.

Orthoses and custom shoe inserts: Podiatrists can provide custom orthotic devices to support and correct foot abnormalities and enhance comfort.

Surgical procedures: General podiatrists may perform surgical procedures on ingrown toenails if required and podiatric surgeons are trained in foot and ankle surgery.

Gait analysis: Podiatrists can analyse a person’s walking or running pattern to identify and address issues related to biomechanics.

Podiatrists work in various healthcare settings, including private practices, hospitals, and clinics. They are an essential part of the healthcare team when it comes to addressing lower limb issues and improving overall mobility and quality of life for their patients. If you have concerns or problems related to your feet or lower extremities, consulting a podiatrist is recommended for diagnosis and treatment.  Contact us on 52430130 to make an appointment.