Diabetic Foot Care Podiatry

Our podiatrists provide comprehensive diabetic foot assessments, which may include: 

Circulation check:

• Palpating pulses in the feet 
• Using Doppler ultrasound where appropriate 
• Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index if necessary 
• Observing skin temperature, colour and hair growth 

Nerve and sensation testing:

• Monofilament testing for protective sensation 
• Vibration testing 
• Assessment for burning, tingling or numbness 

Skin and nail assessment: 

• Callus and corns 
• Cracks, blisters or pressure areas 
• Fungal infections and ingrown toenails 

Foot structure and pressure areas: 

• Foot shape and deformities (e.g. hammer toes, bunions, clawed toes) 
• Areas of high pressure that may increase risk of ulceration 
• Gait and footwear assessment 

 Following your assessment, your podiatrist will discuss your level of foot risk and provide an individualised plan. 

Depending on your assessment and risk level, your podiatry care may include: 

Routine Nail and Skin Care:

• Trimming and managing toenails, including thickened or difficult nails 
• Reducing callus and corns to reduce pressure points 
• Monitoring for early signs of breakdown, infection or changes 

Education and Self‑Care Strategies: 

• Daily foot check routines 
• How to safely care for nails and skin at home 
• What to look out for and when to seek help 
• Simple strategies to reduce rubbing and pressure 

Footwear and Offloading Advice :

• Assessment of current footwear for fit and support 
• Recommendations for appropriate shoes and socks 
• In‑shoe padding or orthotics to redistribute pressure where indicated 
• Guidance on specialist or medical‑grade footwear when appropriate 

 Ulcer and Wound Management (Within Scope) 

For some people with diabetes, ulcers or wounds may develop. Where appropriate and within our scope of practice, we may: 

• Clean and dress minor wounds 
• Help offload pressure from problem areas 
• Work closely with your GP, diabetes educator or specialist 
• Referal to appropriate wound care or high‑risk foot services when needed 

If we identify a problem that requires urgent or specialist care, we will recommend prompt referral and/or medical review. 

The frequency of podiatry visits depends on your level of risk. As a general guide: 

1. Low risk (no loss of sensation, good circulation, no deformity): 

• • Often reviewed every 6–12 months, or as advised by your health team 

2. Moderate risk (some loss of sensation, reduced circulation, or foot deformity): 

• May need podiatry every 3–6 months 

3. High risk (previous ulcer, amputation, significant circulation or nerve problems): 

• Often require more regular reviews and close monitoring 

 Your podiatrist will discuss a suggested review schedule based on your assessment and work with your GP and diabetes care team where appropriate. 

If you have diabetes, you should seek urgent medical attention (GP, urgent care or emergency department) if you notice: 

• A new wound, blister or ulcer that is not healing 
• Redness, warmth or swelling in the foot or toes 
• Pus, odour or signs of spreading infection 
• Sudden change in pain, colour or temperature of your foot 
• Black or blue areas on the skin 
• You feel unwell with fever or chills 

Prompt care can help reduce the risk of complications. 

You do not need a referral to see a podiatrist for diabetic foot care at Fortius Allied Health in Birtinya, Caloundra or Noosa as a private patient. 

A referral from your GP may be required if you are: 

• Claiming under a Medicare Chronic Disease Management Plan 
• Covered by DVA or certain third‑party insurers 

If you think this may apply to you, please discuss it with your GP. 

Diabetic foot care appointments are billed as standard podiatry consultations. 

Rebates may be available through private health insurance, depending on your level of cover. 

Our admin team can provide current information on fees and claiming options.