Your First Podiatry Appointment

What Happens During Your First Visit

Your first appointment is primarily an assessment. There is no need to prepare extensively — just come as you are. Here is what to expect:

• Discussion of your symptoms — we start by listening. You will have the chance to describe what has been happening, when the problem started, and how it has been affecting you
• Medical and activity history — a few brief questions about your general health, activity levels, footwear and any relevant medical history help build a clear picture
• Assessment of foot structure and movement — the podiatrist will examine your foot, check how it moves and assess your walking or standing posture where relevant
• Identification of possible causes — based on the assessment, the likely contributing factors will be identified and explained
• Explanation of findings — you will receive a clear explanation of what is going on and what your options are, without unnecessary jargon

By the end of the appointment you should have a clear understanding of what is causing your symptoms and what the most appropriate next steps are.

Will It Hurt?

Most podiatry assessments are gentle and non-invasive. The examination involves looking at and handling the foot, testing range of movement, and observing how you stand or walk. This is not uncomfortable for most people.

If any treatment is recommended or carried out during the same appointment — such as skin or nail care — it will be fully explained beforehand so you know what to expect and can ask questions. Nothing is done without your understanding and agreement.

What You May Need to Bring

You do not need to bring much to your first appointment. The following can be helpful:

• Your usual footwear — the shoes you wear most often, including work shoes if relevant, as these give useful information about your foot loading and gait
• Relevant medical information — if you have a chronic health condition such as diabetes, or are taking medications that may be relevant, it is helpful to mention this
• Referral or care plan — a GP referral is not required to book, but if you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan (formerly Enhanced Primary Care plan) from your GP, bring it along as it may entitle you to a Medicare rebate
• Previous imaging — if you have had relevant X-rays or scans, you are welcome to bring them, though they are not required

How Long Does It Take?

A first appointment is typically around 30 to 45 minutes. This allows time for a thorough assessment, a proper conversation about your symptoms and history, and a clear explanation of findings and options.

Follow-up appointments for ongoing treatment or review are generally shorter. We aim to keep appointments focused and respectful of your time.

Common Conditions We See

Patients come to us with a wide range of foot and lower limb concerns. Some of the most common include:

• Heel pain — including first-step pain in the morning and pain that builds through the day
• Plantar fasciitis — one of the most frequent causes of persistent heel and arch pain
• Corns and calluses — thickened skin that becomes painful with pressure and friction
• Bunion pain — discomfort at the base of the big toe that often worsens with footwear and activity
• Skin and nail concerns — including thickened or ingrown toenails, fungal infections and cracked heels

Podiatry Care in Craigieburn and Gladstone Park

Medifoot Clinic provides podiatry care for patients across Melbourne North including Craigieburn and Gladstone Park. Our clinics are designed to be accessible and welcoming, particularly for patients who are visiting a podiatrist for the first time.

Whether you are local to Craigieburn or Gladstone Park or travelling from a surrounding suburb, we can usually accommodate appointments at a time that suits your schedule. Both locations offer the same standard of care and the same range of podiatry services.