Biomechanical Assesment
A large portion of the conditions seen in the foot and ankle are caused by poor foot and ankle posture, alignment and biomechanics. Our podiatrists are trained and experienced in assessing lower limb biomechanics of patients. Biomechanical assessment includes evaluating the range and quality of joint motion of the foot and ankle. Muscle strength and flexibility are also assessed. Classification of foot and ankle type and alignment is performed. The way a patient stands, walks and runs may be assessed to complete the biomechanical assessment.
The podiatrist then compares the results of the biomechanical assessment with the symptoms complained of by the patient to finally diagnose the condition. The diagnosis is discussed with the patient before proceeding with an agreed treatment plan. Many of our treatments rely on biomechanical assessment to reduce the forces that harm the tissues of the foot and ankle. Such treatment is aimed at allowing the body to heal and recover from injury so that pain free activity can resume.
3D laser scanning for orthotic therapy
Many foot and ankle conditions respond very well to the use of prescription orthotic devices. After completing a biomechanical assessment our podiatrists use a 3D laser scanner to image and copy the shape and size of the foot. A prescription to improve posture and reduce the harmful forces that cause many foot and ankle conditions is then written and sent to the orthotic laboratory.
A system of computer assisted design (CAD) orthotic fabrication is used by the laboratory to produce a pair of orthotic devices that very accurately fit the foot and provide improved foot and ankle posture and function. Most patients have 1 to 2 follow up consultations after their orthotics have been dispensed to ensure the best results have been obtained. After that 12 monthly reviews are usually advised.
Prescription of medicines
Our podiatric surgeon is endorsed by the Podiatry Board of Australia to prescribe and administer a list of medications to treat foot and ankle conditions. This means that we are able to treat foot and ankle infection, inflammation and pain when it occurs. Read More
Steroid injections
Steroid or cortisone injections can be very effective to treat pain and inflammation of tendons, nerves and joints of the foot and ankle. Our podiatric surgeon will discuss your current medical history and review any current medications as well of advising of potential complications before proceeding with a steroid injection. Read More
Extra corporal shock wave therapy
Shock wave therapy uses high energy sound waves to stimulate injured tissues to heal. Shock wave therapy can be used to treat conditions such as heel spurs and plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, shin splints and other soft tissue and joint problems. Our podiatrists will use shock wave therapy as a treatment in addition to orthotic therapy, prescription medicines and surgery.
Foot and ankle surgery
Podiatric surgery is the only registered speciality of podiatry Read More. Podiatric surgeons have undergone extensive education and training in the medical and surgical management of foot and ankle conditions. Many foot and ankle conditions can be surgically managed using office based procedures and some require day surgery with only a small portion requiring a short stay in hospital. Podiatric surgery has been shown to be safe and effective. Read More. Podiatric surgery has been refined and developed since it began in Australia in 1979. Podiatric surgery aims to get patients back to normal activity levels as soon as possible. Read More