Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a university-qualified healthcare professional who is registered with AHPRA who can diagnose and treat foot and lower limb conditions.
These conditions include musculoskeletal injuries, nail problems, skin conditions, sporting injuries, arthritis, paediatric foot problems, the effects of chronic disease on the lower limb. They can assess any problem relating to the lower limb.
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What can I expect at the first consultation?
At Bondi Podiatry we allocate 45 minutes for an initial appointment.
This will allow the podiatrist plenty of time to thoroughly discuss your concerns, consider your needs and provide an appropriate treatment plan.
We aim to develop a comprehensive plan to achieve your personal goals for your foot health.
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Do you treat children's feet?
Yes, we treat children. Podiatrists treat children of all ages with lower limb concerns.
Your podiatrist is trained to treat paediatric conditions, conduct biomechanical assessments and give footwear advice.
Children's feet are different from adults and they, therefore, experience different foot problems.
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Will the podiatry treatment hurt?
Podiatry treatments generally do not hurt, but depending on the issue you can experience some discomfort.
General treatments with simple callus and corn removals are generally painless, but if you have pre-existing pain or discomfort please let the podiatrist know.
Other conditions may be painful such as ingrown toenails and a local anaesthetic can be offered if suitable.
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Can a podiatrist refer me for imaging?
Yes, a Podiatrist can refer you for an X-ray or ultrasound if further investigation is required.
We generally refer you to our preferred local provider, who can bulk bill scans for our patients.
Although we are able to order CT/MRI scans of the foot, we prefer to coordinate this with your doctor or medical specialist.
This is because the MRI scan may be more affordable if ordered by a specialist .
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How often do I need to visit a podiatrist?
You will need to visit your podiatrist at different intervals depending on the condition being treated.
Your podiatrist can discuss this with you during your appointment.
Generally, wart treatments require weekly visits while routine nail and skincare is can be around 6-8 weeks.
Treatments like orthotic therapy require less frequent appointments.
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Do you treat warts?
Yes, our Podiatrists often treat plantar warts (Verruca Pedis). A common treatment may include debriding the overlying tissue followed by chemical cautery using e.g. silver nitrate, Nitric Acid or Salicylic acid, liquid nitrogen freezing, Upton’s paste, and occlusion.
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Can I use my Private Health Fund?
Yes, we use easy electronic claiming at Bondi Podiatry.
The system we use is HICAPS. Which allows you electronically claim your private health insurance rebate at the time of your consultation.
Present your private health insurance card at your time of your consultation and we will process your rebate and you will only pay the remaining balance.
If your questions have not been answered on this FAQs page please feel free to contact us on (02) 8971 1682. Our phonelines are generally open around the clock. Feel free to call or message 0413 740 438 if URGENT.