Podiatry
Healthy Feet, Better Life
About Podiatry
Podiatry is a specialised branch of healthcare focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs. From common concerns like heel pain and ingrown toenails to more complex issues such as sports injuries, diabetic foot care, and biomechanical disorders, podiatry plays a vital role in maintaining overall mobility and quality of life. Because our feet support the entire body every day, even minor problems can impact posture, balance, and long-term health.
Modern podiatry combines advanced medical knowledge with innovative technology to deliver precise, personalised care. Through thorough assessments, tailored treatment plans, and preventive strategies, podiatrists help patients move comfortably and confidently. Whether the goal is pain relief, performance enhancement, or preventive care, professional podiatry ensures that every step is supported by expertise and attention to detail.
How Can Our Podiatrists Help You?
Our Townsville Podiatrist Hayley Paterson works solely within the Biomechanical / Musculoskeletal space. This means we diagnose and effectively treat foot, ankle and lower limb pain, address gait and posture concerns and performance enhancement. We DO NOT PROVIDE GENERAL PODIATRY TREATMENT (which includes nail, corn, ingrown toenail, plantar wart, diabetic foot care).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does a podiatrist do?
A podiatrist specialises in treating problems with and injuries to the feet, ankles, legs and knees, as well as optimising their function.
A podiatrist is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) after studying for a minimum of four years.
Do I need a referral?
In most cases, a referral is not needed to see a podiatrist. However, certain patients such as those with the Department of Veterans Affairs cards, Medicare Care Plans and EPC’s will need referrals from their GP.
We also have HICAPS onsite so you can claim directly from your Private Health funds.
What is a general consultation and treatment?
General consultations and treatments cover a wide scope of foot problems, including:
- Foot care (thickened nails, calluses, corns, warts, ingrown nails etc)
- Diabetic foot screening and assessments (including digital circulation tests and neurological checks)
- Wax baths for extremely dry skin
- Athlete’s foot, cracked heels and other skin pathologies
Are the Podiatrists experienced?
Aside from their four-year degree, our team of podiatrists regularly attend ongoing training courses and seminars in order to stay at the top of their profession and provide you with the very best podiatric care that you deserve. This, along with our innovative clinical systems, ensure all treatments meet the highest standards. Our friendly and competent administrative staff are also well trained to ensure that every aspect of your foot care is to your satisfaction.
What’s included in an initial biomechanical consultation?
Initial biomechanical consultations take about an hour to complete and involve a thorough taking of history, extensive physical and stance assessment (standing, walking and lying down), as well as comprehensive video gait analysis and reporting.
In some cases, this may include revision of previous diagnostic tests (x-ray, CT scan or MRI), and digital 3D scanning of the contours of the feet for custom foot orthotic fabrication. Patients leave the centre with a compiled biomechanical report folder that contains their video gait analysis reports, exercise instruction sheets, brochures and recommendations which may include footwear referrals.
If you have been referred to the centre, this information is forwarded to the referrer along with a comprehensive letter of treatment. Most patients are amazed at the level of clinical detail that we strive for in order to provide the best service and treatment available.