Scope of practice
The scope of practice has expanded in recent years and podiatrists now deliver highly-specialised care for patients who have stability problems affecting joints from the foot upwards, including:
- ankle
- knee
- hip
- spine
Why do I need to see a specialist?
It is now widely recognised that foot problems affect the spine and can cause back pain.
Athletes can consult a podiatrist for problems related to overuse of the foot and abnormal pressure on the feet as well as the lower limbs. These issues may lead to tendonitis, periostitis and other inflammatory conditions.
If athletes experience various pain when running, an analysis to examine the weight-bearing surface of the foot should be performed while the patient is standing still and moving. This analysis provides an in-depth assessment of the biomechanics of the foot.
Podiatrists also specialise in the treatment of skin and nail conditions affecting the foot; they are committed to investigating and identifying the underlying cause, so that they can deliver appropriate care to treat both the medical condition and root problem.
Multidisciplinary care
In addition to medication, physiotherapy and/or a break from physical activity and sport, most medical conditions can be improved by wearing heat-moulded orthotic insoles.
To achieve the best possible results from treatment, the podiatrist will endeavour to correct structural disorders, improve the weight-bearing surface, relax overused muscles and even soften heel-to-floor impact.