Do I need a referral to see a Podiatrist?
Not usually. Anyone is welcome to come see a podiatrist without a referral.
How often should I visit a Podiatrist?
This is dependent on what the primary problem is. If you suffer with chronic conditions and are unable to manage your feet, then it is best to see a podiatrist every 8-10 weeks to manage nails, corns and callouses of the feet and prevent further problems.
Otherwise, how often you see a podiatrist will be determined by the podiatrist depending on the problem. It may be more or less frequent.
Will my health fund cover some of the costs?
Generally speaking, every health fund is different. Depending on your level of cover, you will be able to claim up to 80% of the podiatry and orthotics services.
Not to worry, we have HI-CAPS available on site for instant rebate access, which makes it very easy.
Do I need a referral to get Orthotics?
No you don’t need a referral to receive orthotics. However, a lot of times, Patients are referred to The Fresh Foot Centre by their Osteopath, Physiotherapist, General Practitioner or Personal Trainer.
How long to Orthotics last?
Depending on the type of orthotic created, Orthotics can last anywhere from 2-5 years. We normally recommend you get evaluated for a new pair of orthotics at a minimum of 2 years as the foot shape and structure changes over time. It is also an opportunity to get a fresh second pair of orthotics to be placed in another pair of shoes.
How long to Orthotics take to get used to?
Orthotics can take anywhere from 2-3 weeks to get used to them. It’s important to slowly wear the orthotics in as they are activating different muscles in your body which means it can be uncomfortable in the first 2-3 weeks wearing them. The podiatrist will discuss with you how to wear orthotics in slowly in the initial period.
Should Orthotics cause pain or blisters?
No Orthotics aim to provide shock absorption, distribute the pressure points more evenly in the feet and lower limb muscles as well as help you walk and/or exercise better. If you are experiencing pain, then you should make an appointment with the podiatrist.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Any imaging such as x-ray or ultrasound on the feet and ankles are a great source of information for podiatrists. Your regular footwear that you wear, and a referral from another practitioner (if you have one) is always helpful when we undertake a full podiatry clinical examination.
Are you a preferred provider with any private health insurers?
Yes, The Fresh Foot Centre are proudly part of the HCF ‘More for Feet’ Program.
This means, any patient that is part of HCF health fund, will be entitled to receive their initial podiatry appointment FREE at The Fresh Foot Centre in Narre Warren.
* Conditions: You must have podiatry cover.
We have now also teamed up with Medibank Private as a preferred Podiatry Service provider for their Members. The Fresh Foot Centre acknowledges Medibank Private Health Members who have Podiatry extras cover by offering special discounts on Podiatry Services and products.
