What is a Podiatrist? Everything You Need to Know About Foot Specialists
If you’ve ever experienced persistent foot pain, heel discomfort or nail issues, you may have been told to “see a podiatrist.”
But what exactly is a podiatrist, and how can they help? We’re not children doctors, we’re the foot specialists!
Understanding the role of a podiatrist is essential when it comes to protecting your mobility, preventing injury and managing chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis.
What Is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a university-trained, registered healthcare professional and an important member of the allied health workforce.
Podiatrists are responsible for the diagnosis, treatment and management of disorders affecting the foot, ankle and lower limbs.
They are highly trained in understanding how the feet function, and how problems in the feet can affect the knees, hips and even back.
They are primary healthcare providers for foot and lower limb health.
What Does a Podiatrist Do?
Podiatrists manage a wide range of conditions across all age groups.
Common Conditions Treated by Podiatrists
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Heel pain
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Plantar fasciitis
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Sports injuries such as ankle sprains
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Ingrown toenails
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Arthritis
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Diabetic foot complications
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Nail and skin conditions
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Flat feet or high arches
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Growth and developmental concerns in children
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Neurological conditions affecting the lower limbs
Podiatrists use a combination of:
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Medical treatment
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Orthotic therapy
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Rehabilitation techniques
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Gait analysis
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Injection therapy
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Minor surgical procedures
Their goal is to:
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Alleviate pain
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Restore mobility
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Improve quality of life
They take a hands-on approach and use specialised equipment and technology to assess movement patterns, pressure distribution and structural alignment.
Advanced Skills and Scope of Practice
Podiatrists are one of the few allied health professionals with an advanced scope of practice.
They can:
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Independently request radiological imaging (such as X-rays and ultrasounds)
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Administer local anaesthetic
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Perform minor surgical procedures
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Prescribe medications (if endorsed)
This makes them uniquely positioned to manage both routine and complex foot conditions without needing referral pathways in many cases.
Who Can a Podiatrist Help?
Podiatrists work with people at all stages of life, including:
👶 Babies and Children
Monitoring growth and development, walking patterns, and structural concerns.
🏃 Active Adults
Managing sports injuries, overuse conditions and performance-related foot issues.
🧓 Older Adults
Supporting mobility, managing arthritis, preventing falls and monitoring circulation.
🩺 People with Chronic Conditions
Podiatrists are essential members of healthcare teams caring for people with:
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Diabetes
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Arthritis
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Neurological disease
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Circulatory disorders
Preventative podiatry plays a critical role in reducing complications, particularly in diabetic foot care.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
You should consider seeing a podiatrist if you experience:
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Ongoing foot or heel pain
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Nail problems or infections
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Changes in foot shape
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Numbness or tingling
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Balance concerns
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Foot wounds that are slow to heal
Early intervention prevents minor problems from becoming serious issues.
Where Do I Find Podiatrists?
To find a registered podiatrist in Australia, visit Australia Podiatry Association.
Select “Find a Podiatrist” to locate a professional near you.
Seeing a qualified podiatrist ensures you receive safe, evidence-based foot care.
Why Podiatry Matters?
Your feet are your foundation. You’ll go no where without them!
When foot problems go untreated, they can impact:
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Mobility
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Independence
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Exercise capacity
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Overall quality of life
Podiatrists don’t just treat feet, they protect your ability to move confidently and comfortably.
Useful resources:
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) ensure that registered podiatrist are suitably qualified and safe to practice. Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency - Home
The Podiatry Board of Australia regulates Australia’s podiatrists and podiatric surgeons. Podiatry Board of Australia - Home
Australian Podiatry Association (APodA) is the peak professional body for podiatrists in Australia. Australian Podiatry Association - Find a podiatrist near me
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