What Does a Podiatrist Actually Do?
When you think of a podiatrist, do you picture someone clipping toenails for elderly patients? You're not alone—but while skin and nail care are an important part of what we do, it barely scratches the surface.
Podiatrists treat people of all ages—from toddlers learning to walk, to active teens and adults, to seniors managing long-term foot and mobility concerns. We see kids, athletes, busy parents, and older adults for a wide range of issues.
Yes, we treat callus, corns, plantar warts, fungal nails, ingrown toenails, and other skin and nail concerns—but we also manage foot, ankle, knee, and even hip pain. These problems often link back to what’s happening at the feet and how the body moves as a whole. Common issues we help with but not limited to include heel and arch pain, shin splints, knee pain, hip conditions, lower back pain, bunion discomfort, ankle instability, arthritis, fall prevention, and running assessments.
Depending on your goals, a podiatrist can provide footwear advice, strength and rehab exercises, in-shoe modifications, or custom orthotics if they are required.
We will also often collaborate with physiotherapists and General Pracitioners when a team approach is best.
So if you’ve ever thought, “I’m too young to see a podiatrist,” or “It’s just foot pain,” think again. The earlier we assess, the easier it is to fix!
If you’re not sure what category of podiatry appointment to book in for we generally recommend booking in for a Musculoskeletal appointment if you have any foot, ankle or knee pain, require walking or running assessments, or any sporting injuries, for all other nail and skin care concerns we’d advise booking in for General podiatry.