FAQ
Yes, we are Medibank preferred provider, but we also accept other private health funds like:
BUPA, POLICE HEALTH, TEACHER HEALTH, HCF, NIB, AHM, DEFENCE HEALTH, QANTAS HEALTH INSURANCE and many more….
Will my private health insurance cover podiatry treatment?
If you have "Extra's" cover, we recommend that you contact your Health Fund, to check if Podiatry is claimable on your policy. We offer HICAPS at our clinic, which enables "on-the-spot" rebates from your Health Fund, so you pay the "gap" only.
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
If you are attending as a Private patient, the answer is no. A Doctor's referral is required if you are claiming through Work Cover, Department of Veteran Affairs (D.V.A.) or Medicare. If you are unsure, please do not hesitate to ask for more information.
What are orthotics?
Orthotics are prescription devices made to wear in your shoes to help re-align your feet and effectively offload lower limb injuries. At Kallangur Podiatry, we use Custom (Prescription) Orthoses, made from 3D printing and a variety of materials, specifically fitted to your individual requirements. We will assess your needs on a case-by-case basis, and discuss your treatment requirements. There are numerous factors that will influence your Orthotic Treatment Plan, including the type of injury, your activities, and the type of footwear used.
Do you have any tips for finding comfortable footwear?
The perfect pair of shoes should be comfortable as soon as you buy them. There should be enough width and length to accommodate your feet easily, with no tight spots or be restrictive.
Remember that your foot size can change as life goes on. As the ligaments stretch, the foot can get slightly wider and longer. Your shoe size will almost certainly have increased from what it was in your 20's to at least a half size by the time you're 30 and will continue to change as you age. An easy way to check is to pull the insole out of the shoe and stand on it. Is your foot hanging over the edges? If yes, then it's too small.
What is pronation and supination?
Pronation is the natural rolling-in motion of the foot. Supination is the natural rolling-out motion of the foot. Their function aids natural shock absorption, balance, coordination and propulsion of the body. From foot contact to toe-off the feet display differing degrees of pronation to supination along the length of the feet. Too much of either can cause discomfort and possibly injury in the knees, hip and back. The combination of correct footwear and custom insole will give the optimum balance between pronation and supination, supporting the body comfortably and efficiently.
Do I have flat feet, or are they pronated?
Most people assume that flat feet are the same as pronated feet but there is a big difference. A person with flat feet has a very low arch yet their joint alignment is good. A person with pronating feet has poor alignment due to a collapsing arch accompanied by internal rotation of the ankle joint. We can tell which one you are and assist in finding the right shoe type.
Do Diabetics need to see a podiatrist regularly?
The importance of foot care for people suffering from diabetes is widely recognised due to the risk of serious and disabling foot complications and even amputation. It is recommended that people diagnosed as having diabetes be assessed by a podiatrist who will be able to advise how to reduce the risk of injury and complication and monitor their foot health status regularly.
Do I need to worry about my children’s growing pains?
Yes. During your child’s biggest growth period (7-14yrs of age) strain can be put through the soft growth plates in their bones causing pain and dysfunction. Do they constantly trip, scuff their feet or wear shoes unevenly? Do they complain of pain? Don't let people tell you your child's pains are just "growing pains" – pain in children is not normal.
How can I tell if the shoe really fits?
Shoes should be comfortable as soon as you buy them. You should be able to give your toes a wiggle, get a bit of movement in the leather across the top of the shoe, and the shoe should have a sole that flexes at the ball of your foot.
Remember that your foot size can change as you get older. As the ligaments stretch, the foot can get slightly wider and longer. Your shoe size will almost certainly have increased from what it was in your 20's to at least a half size by the time you're 30 and will continue to change as you age. An easy way to check is to pull the insole out of the shoe and stand on it. Is your foot hanging over the edges? If yes, then it's too small.
Is the shape of the shoes important?
The shape of the shoes is really important. If you have a narrow heel it is important to get a shoe that cups the back of the foot effectively or else you will over-tighten the laces to hold the heel from slipping and compress the foot. It's the same if you have a wide heel in a narrow laced shoe, the blood flow to the heel and feet is restricted which will make your feet ache.
What to spend on shoes?
You need to get quality shoes, but don't just go for the most expensive pair in the shop. Get the right pair for you and your needs. They need to be the appropriate pair for your body, your foot and your activities. For example, your trainers will depend on your weight, whether or not you wear orthotics, foot pronation and what type of sports you will be using them for.
Kallangur Podiatry recommends that you have your shoes fitted by professionals.
Do my feet affect my knees and is that why my knees hurt when I run?
The excessive range of pronation and supination of your feet can influence the tracking of the knee and lower limb which may influence lower limb and even lower back pain.