When many people think of a podiatrist, they picture someone who simply trims toenails or deals
with the occasional corn. However, at Instep Podiatry, our role in the Adelaide healthcare
community is much broader. Podiatry is a specialised branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis,
treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the lower limbs.
From elite athletes to toddlers taking their first steps, podiatrists ensure that the “foundation” of
your body is functioning correctly. If your feet aren’t right, it can have a ripple effect on your
knees, hips, and lower back.
Assessing Biomechanics and Gait
One of the most critical aspects of modern podiatry is biomechanical assessment. This involves
looking at the way your bones, muscles, and joints move together. At our Adelaide clinics, we
often perform a “gait analysis,” where we observe you walking or running to identify irregularities.
If your feet roll inward too much (overpronation) or outward (supination), it can cause chronic
pain. We use this data to prescribe custom orthotics – specialised shoe inserts designed to realign
your feet and distribute pressure evenly, preventing long-term injury.
Sports Podiatry and Injury Recovery
Adelaide is a city of active people, from weekend hikers in the Mount Lofty Ranges to local footy
players. Sports podiatry focuses on treating acute and chronic injuries such as:
Plantar Fasciitis: Intense heel pain often felt first thing in the morning.
Shin Splints: Common in runners and those starting new fitness regimes.
Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendon at the back of the ankle.
Stress Fractures: Small cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force.
We don’t just treat the pain; we look for the cause. This might involve recommending specific
footwear, strengthening exercises, or shockwave therapy to accelerate healing.
Paediatric Podiatry: Growing Feet
Children’s feet are soft and pliable, making them susceptible to damage from ill-fitting shoes or
developmental issues. We help parents navigate concerns like “in-toeing” (pigeon toes), flat feet,
or severs disease (heel pain in active kids). Early intervention at Instep Podiatry can ensure that
small alignment issues don’t become permanent structural problems in adulthood.
High-Risk Foot Care and Diabetes
For many South Australians living with diabetes, a podiatrist is a vital member of their healthcare
team. Diabetes can cause reduced blood flow and nerve damage (neuropathy) in the feet,
meaning a small cut or blister can quickly turn into a serious ulcer.
We perform regular neurovascular assessments to check circulation and sensation, providing
essential preventative care that keeps our patients mobile and out of the hospital.
General Foot Maintenance and Skin Health
Of course, we still look after the “basics.” Professional care for skin and nail conditions is essential
for comfort and hygiene. This includes:
Ingrown Toenails: Including permanent surgical solutions under local anaesthetic.
Fungal Infections: Specialist advice on clearing persistent nail fungus.
Corns and Calluses: Removing painful thickened skin safely and painlessly.
Verrucae (Warts): Targeted treatments for stubborn plantar warts.
Why Trust Instep Podiatry?
At Instep Podiatry, we pride ourselves on being more than just a foot clinic. We are movement
specialists. Whether you are struggling with a persistent ache, looking to improve your running PB,
or simply need professional help with foot hygiene, our Adelaide-based team offers evidence-
based care tailored to your lifestyle.
Your feet carry you a distance equivalent to walking around the world four times in a lifetime.
Isn’t it time you gave them the professional care they deserve? Contact Instep Podiatry today to
book your comprehensive foot health assessment.
What specific foot or lower leg concern has been on your mind lately?
Email or call Instep Podiatry in Adelaide on (08) 8250 3732 to book an appointment.