new-lambton-podiatry-2026

How to Choose the Right Treatment for Plantar Warts

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 01:44:07 GMT

Not all plantar warts require the same treatment. The best approach depends on factors such as pain level, immune status, activity demands and previous treatment attempts.

Understanding your options can help you make an informed decision.

Should You Treat a Plantar Wart?

Some plantar warts resolve naturally without intervention. This is more common in children than adults. However, treatment may be recommended if:

The wart is painful
It is spreading
It interferes with walking or sport
It has persisted for several months

Treatment Pathways Explained

Conservative (Low Discomfort) Options

Topical Salicylic Acid Treatments: These treatments gradually break down wart tissue. Consistency is key, often requiring daily application for 8 weeks or more.

Silver Nitrate Therapy: Applied in-clinic after debridement, this method removes layers progressively with minimal discomfort.

Moderate Intensity Options

Cryotherapy (Freezing): Often combined with other therapies, freezing damages wart tissue. Some blistering and short-term soreness may occur.

Advanced Options for Stubborn Warts

Microwave Therapy: Targets the wart internally while stimulating immune recognition. No downtime is required, making it ideal for active individuals.

Falknor’s Needling: Performed under anaesthetic, this method disrupts wart tissue to prompt immune clearance. Research into Falkner’s needling has shown encouraging results, with many patients experiencing complete clearance after just one treatment session.

Why Immune Health Matters

According to the British Association of Dermatologists, plantar warts often clear on their own, but treatment outcomes can be less predictable in people with weakened immune systems.

The immune system plays a crucial role in wart resolution. If immunity is reduced, treatment response may be slower. Zinc supplementation may be recommended in resistant cases, provided dosing is appropriate and medically supervised.

When to Pause Treatment

If three separate treatment methods have failed, taking a short break may improve immune response before restarting therapy.

If your plantar wart isn’t improving or you’re unsure which option is suitable, book in with us at Merewether Podiatry or New Lambton Podiatry for expert advice and personalised treatment planning.

Understanding Plantar Warts: Infection, Transmission & Prevention

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 22:00:04 GMT

Plantar warts are viral lesions that develop on the soles of the feet following infection with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). While common, they can be stubborn and slow to resolve due to the way the virus interacts with the outer layers of the skin.

The Virus Behind Plantar Warts

HPV is a group of viruses with more than 150 identified subtypes. Only a small number are typically responsible for plantar warts, with these strains entering the skin through microscopic cuts or abrasions. Over time, this leads to the formation of a wart on the sole of the foot.

According to DermNet NZ, plantar warts are classified as cutaneous viral warts and commonly develop within thickened, keratinised skin on the sole, which contributes to discomfort and thickening under pressure.

How Plantar Warts Are Transmitted

Plantar warts are contagious and can spread through:

Direct contact with an existing wart
Autoinoculation, where the virus spreads from one area of skin to another
Contact with contaminated surfaces in shared environments

The Cleveland Clinic explains that HPV is commonly spread through contact with infected skin or surfaces, particularly when the skin barrier is compromised. Warm, moist areas such as swimming pools, communal showers and change rooms can increase the risk of exposure.

Skin that is softened by moisture or weakened by dryness is more susceptible, as small breaks in the skin allow easier viral entry. Symptoms may not appear immediately, as the virus can remain dormant for months before a wart becomes visible.

Why Plantar Warts Can Persist

HPV infects the upper layers of the epidermis, an area with limited blood supply and fewer immune cells. This makes it harder for the immune system to recognise and clear the virus.

It is important to note that because HPV does not strongly trigger an immune response, plantar warts can persist for long periods without treatment, particularly if pressure and friction continue during walking.

Why Assessment Matters

Plantar warts can vary significantly depending on the HPV strain involved and how long the infection has been present. Professional assessment helps ensure the lesion is correctly identified and managed appropriately, particularly if it is painful, spreading, or not responding to home care.

Plantar warts may persist without targeted management. If your wart is painful, spreading or not responding to treatment, podiatry assessment can help manage the condition and reduce the risk of transmission.

If you’re unsure about a lesion on your foot or experiencing an ongoing plantar wart, book in with us now at Merewether Podiatry or New Lambton Podiatry for professional assessment and tailored care.

Heel Fissures Explained: Causes, Care & Long-Term Prevention

strategiqmarketing@gmail.com (Laurence Schuberth) — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 04:58:35 GMT

Heel fissures occur when the skin around the heel becomes too dry and thick to stretch properly, causing it to split. Although common, they can become painful without the right treatment. Here’s what contributes to them and how you can manage the condition safely.

Common Triggers for Heel Fissures

Dryness and reduced skin flexibility: Some people naturally produce less moisture in their skin, while others become dehydrated due to weather, lifestyle or ageing. Dry, rigid skin can’t absorb pressure well and is more likely to crack.
Footwear choices: Open-backed shoes: like slides, thongs, sandals and even being barefoot force the heel to expand sideways when walking. These forces, combined with warm weather and long hours on your feet, can lead to callus build-up and cracking.
Inherited traits: A tendency toward drier, harder skin is often genetic, making certain individuals more vulnerable to fissures.
Hormonal factors: Changes in hormones can disrupt the skin’s natural moisture-retaining abilities, increasing roughness.

Signs You Should See a Podiatrist

Professional care is recommended if you notice:

Severe or painful splitting
Bleeding or deep cracks
Infection symptoms (redness, warmth, discharge)
No improvement despite home treatment
Additional health conditions such as diabetes or vascular issues

A podiatrist can treat the fissures and guide you through ongoing prevention.

Treatment Approaches

1. Professional Reduction of Callus: Removing compacted hard skin helps relieve pressure and encourages moisturisers to absorb effectively.

2. Consistent Use of Urea Cream: Choose a heel cream containing 15-40% urea. Urea restores moisture, softens tough skin and assists in rebuilding the skin’s protective barrier. This may be used short-term or as part of ongoing foot care.

3. Enhanced Hydration With Occlusion: When standard moisturising isn’t enough, occlusion can help.

Steps:

Massage your usual heel balm into the skin.
Add another generous layer over the heels.
Place the feet inside a plastic bag.
Leave for up to two hours.
Use weekly or whenever extra hydration is required.

4. Wet Wrap Technique: A more intensive option involving cream plus damp socks worn overnight. Always ask your podiatrist how to apply this safely.

Preventing Future Cracks

Footwear plays the biggest role. Enclosed shoes reduce heel movement and protect the skin from friction and pressure. If you prefer open shoes, your podiatrist can help tailor a plan that balances your lifestyle with effective prevention strategies.

To learn more about the medical causes and presentation of heel fissures, DermNet provides a clear and comprehensive overview.

Preventing Common Summer Foot Problems: What You Need to Know Before the Heat Arrives

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 01:43:51 GMT

Summer is the season when foot issues tend to flare. With hot days, increased sweating and more time spent in open, unsupportive footwear, it’s no surprise that blisters, cracked heels and fungal infections become more common. The good news? Most warm-weather foot problems can be prevented with a few proactive steps.

The Most Common Summer Foot Conditions

Blisters
Sweaty skin rubbing against sandals or unlined shoes leads to irritation and fluid-filled blisters. Even short walks can cause them when friction is high.

Fungal infections (tinea + fungal nails)
Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, meaning sweaty shoes, pool areas and public change rooms become hotspots in summer.

Cracked heels
Exposure to air and heat causes the skin to lose moisture quickly. Open-back shoes like thongs and slides also encourage friction and pressure buildup, making the heels hard and prone to splitting.

Foot odour
Closed shoes + summer sweat = trapped moisture, which causes odour and increases the risk of infection.

How to Prevent Summer Foot Issues

Keep your feet dry with daily sock changes
Sweat builds up faster in summer heat. Changing socks daily, or during the day if they become damp, helps reduce friction, odour and fungal risk. Choose moisture-wicking fabrics.

Moisturise heels and feet before bed
Daily use of a foot cream or heel balm strengthens the skin barrier, preventing dryness and cracks. This also reduces the risk of secondary infections and pain.

Use sunscreen on exposed areas
The tops of the feet burn easily, especially in slides, thongs and open sandals. Apply sunscreen whenever they’re exposed to the sun.

Always wear thongs in communal wet areas
Public showers, pools and change rooms are common sources of fungal infections. Wearing protective footwear significantly reduces your risk.

Choose supportive footwear
Even though open-backed shoes are tempting in the heat, they offer little support. Alternating with supportive, enclosed shoes helps reduce friction and pressure on the heels.

When to See a Podiatrist

If cracked heels worsen, blisters become painful, or fungal infections persist despite over-the-counter care, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Early treatment prevents complications and keeps you active throughout summer.

Taking a few simple steps now can help prevent the most common warm-weather foot issues, so that you can enjoy the season blister-free, crack-free and worry-free.

For more guidance on preparing your feet for warmer weather, you can also explore Harvard Health’s advice on getting your feet summer-ready.

Everything You Need to Know About Ingrown Toenails

strategiqmarketing@gmail.com (Laurence Schuberth) — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 02:45:13 GMT

Everything You Need to Know About Ingrown Toenails

How to tell if you have an ingrown toenail (and what to do about it)

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin, often causing pain and inflammation. Some common signs of an ingrown toenail include:

Pain or tenderness along one of both sides of the toenail
Hardening of the skin near the nail edge
Redness, swelling and warmth around the nail
Pus at the nail edge
Overgrowth of skin around the nail

If you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, a Podiatrist can help

Leading up to your appointment:

Keep the area clean and dry
Wear open- toed shoes with wiggle room around the toes to reduce pressure to the nail
Do not dig or cut down into the nail as this could make it worse

When should you see a Podiatrist for an ingrown toenail?

If you suspect you have an ingrown nail it is best to see a Podiatrist for assessment and treatment
If there are any signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth and pus) an appointment is urgent
Treatment is usually quite straight forward and with minimal discomfort

Why you keep getting ingrown toenails (and how to prevent them)

Some common causes of ingrown toenails include:

If the toenail naturally has a curved shape
Wearing tight shoes or socks
Improper cutting technique (cutting the toenail too short, too round and down the sides of the nail)
There has been an injury to the toenail

Ingrown toenail surgery (what it involves and when it’s needed)

Podiatrists are trained in performing a partial nail avulsion which is a procedure to surgically remove a portion of toenail that is ingrown.

The surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, and following the removal of the ingrown edge, a chemical (phenol) is applied to stop this portion of nail regrowing. Following the surgery, the area will be dressed and instructions will be given on post operative care and redressing. Your Podiatrist will also review with you at least twice following the procedure to check on the area and ensure healing is progressing as it should. In most cases, healing will be completed in 6 weeks.

A partial nail avulsion is a treatment option for severe ingrown toenails, recurring ingrown toenails or ingrown toenails that have not responded well to conservative treatments.

Ingrown toenails in kids and teens (a parent’s guide)

Ingrown toenails are common in kids and teens. During growth spurts, the nail and skin can grow unevenly which can increase the chance of the nail pressing into the skin. Another factor is the hormones during puberty which can lead to sweatier feet which may soften the skin making it easier for nails to dig in. High activity levels in kids and teens can also contribute to ingrowing toenails. Sports like running, dancing, and soccer all involve repetitive pressure and perhaps trauma to the toes which can push the nail into the skin.

Teenage years are when feet reach their full size and is often when ingrown nails present. Some can be managed conservatively by a Podiatrist, whilst others may benefit from nail surgery to prevent ongoing issues.

Onyfix

Onyfix is a painless treatment where a small amount of composite material is attached to the ingrown nail and overtime, changes the shape of the nail, removing pressure from the sides of your nail. Onfyix is suitable for certain involuted nail shapes and when used starts relieving pressure almost immediately.

What to Expect at Your First Visit to Our Podiatrist Clinic

strategiqmarketing@gmail.com (Laurence Schuberth) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 03:30:29 GMT

Welcome to our clinic! We are here to help you feel comfortable and confident with your foot health. Here is what you can expect at your first appointment

Arrival and check in:

You will be greeted by our friendly reception team.
A new patient form will need to be completed.
Please share any referral letters, test results or previous scans (if applicable).

Initial consultation:

You will be seen by one of our Podiatrists. If there is a preference of who you would like to see, please discuss this with reception when booking your appointment.
Medical history will be discussed.
Your current concerns, symptoms, footwear, lifestyle and any previous injuries or treatment will be discussed.
For anyone visiting due to foot pain, your feet, ankle and lower limbs will be examined, with further tests or a full biomechanical assessment performed as needed. A diagnosis and treatment plan will then be discussed. Orthotics and rehab plans will require follow up appointments.
For anyone visiting for general foot care (nail and skin issues) treatment will start on your first visit. If any further follow up appointments are needed, your Podiatrist will discuss this with you before leaving.
Further appointments can be booked in with reception staff before leaving.

How our Podiatrist clinic supports patients of all ages

No matter your age, foot health is vital. From toddlers taking their first steps, to older adults looking to maintain mobility and comfort, we are here to provide thorough and compassionate Podiatry care.

Inside our Podiatrist clinic: Meet the team behind your foot care

Our Podiatry clinic is dedicated to keeping you on your feet. Our clinic is made up of 6 experienced Podiatrists, Andrew, Jacob, Cathy, Taryn, Craig and Zac. Combining clinical expertise and a passion for foot care, our friendly team of Podiatrists offer a range of Podiatric services. Each team member brings unique skills and experience, but we share one goal, helping you to move comfortably and confidently.

From nail care to injury rehab: Services we offer
We offer a range of Podiatric services at our clinic.

General foot care includes assessment and treatment of nail pathologies including ingrown toenails and fungal toenails, skin pathologies including corns, calluses, and warts as well as foot care advice. General foot care allows us to look after your feet when it may become too difficult for you to maintain.
Nail surgery is an option for permanent treatment of ingrown toenails. We also offer Onyfix, a nail bracing system suitable for some nails to avoid nail surgery.
Plantar wart treatment. We provide a range of treatment options available for plantar warts including topical treatments through to our fantastic Swift Microwave Therapy.
Diabetic foot assessments include a neurological and vascular assessment and is recommended for anyone all patients who have Diabetes to be conducted annually.
Foot pain and foot injuries. For anyone visiting due to foot pain, injuries or biomechanical concerns; feet, ankle and lower limbs will be examined with further tests or assessment performed as needed. We offer Shock Wave therapy and orthotics to aid in the treatment of some lower limb injuries and pain.
Orthotics. We offer a range of orthotics that are selected based on your foot concerns, foot structures, and biomechanics. For custom orthotics, we offer 3D scanning for accurate impressions of the feet.
Footwear advice: help is provided to ensure your current shoes fit and are suitable. Footwear recommendations are part of our standard service and is vital for most presenting foot concerns.

Your Feet Deserve Expert Care

Schedule your first visit at our Newcastle Podiatrist Clinic and let our experienced podiatrists help you move comfortably and confidently.

Expert Foot Care for All Ages

strategiqmarketing@gmail.com (Laurence Schuberth) — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 06:49:55 GMT

Welcome to our clinic!

We are here to help you feel comfortable and confident with your foot health. Here is what you can expect at your first appointment

Arrival and check in:

You will be greeted by our friendly reception team
A new patient form will need to be completed
Please share any referral letters, test results or previous scans (if applicable).

Initial consultation:

You will be seen by one of our Podiatrists. If there is a preference of who you would like to see, please discuss this with reception when booking your appointment.
Medical history will be discussed.
Your current concerns, symptoms, footwear, lifestyle and any previous injuries or treatment will be discussed.
For anyone visiting due to foot pain, orthotics and biomechanical concerns will have feet, ankle and lower limbs examined with further tests or assessment performed as needed. A diagnosis and treatment plan will then be discussed. Orthotics and rehab plans will require follow up appointments.
For anyone visiting for general foot care (nail and skin issues) treatment will start on your first visit. If any further follow up appointments are needed, your Podiatrist will discuss this with you before leaving.
Any further appointments can be booked in with reception staff before leaving.

How our Podiatrist clinic supports patients of all ages

No matter our age, foot health is important. From toddlers taking their first steps, to older adults looking to maintain mobility and comfort, we are here to provide expert, compassionate Podiatry care at every stage of life.

Inside our Podiatrist clinic: Meet the team behind your foot care

 Services we offer at our Podiatrist clinic

General foot care
This includes assessment and treatment of nail pathologies including ingrown toenails and fungal toenails, skin pathologies including corns and calluses, and foot care advice.

Nail surgery

We offer nail surgery as an option for permanent treatment of ingrown toenails.

Plantar wart treatment

We provide a range of treatment options available for plantar warts including topical treatments and Swift microwave therapy.

Diabetic foot assessments
This includes a neurological and vascular assessment and is recommended for anyone who is Diabetic.

Foot pain
For anyone visiting due to foot pain or biomechanical concerns, feet, ankle and lower limbs will be examined with further tests or assessment performed as needed.

Orthotics
We offer a range of orthotics that are suitable based on your foot concerns and biomechanics. For custom orthotics, we offer 3D scanning for accurate casting of the feet.

Podiatry Services Play a Significant Role in Preventing Falls

strategiqmarketing@gmail.com (Laurence Schuberth) — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 03:49:39 GMT

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older Australians, and they’re not just a “balance” problem.

Often, the cause lies much closer to the ground: your feet. Foot pain, poor footwear and undiagnosed biomechanical issues can all affect the way we walk, stand and recover from a stumble. That’s where podiatry services play a powerful, and often overlooked, role. Here are six key ways podiatrists help reduce the risk of falls and keep people moving confidently at every age.

1. Foot Health Assessment

Foot pain and structural changes, such as bunions, hammertoes or flat feet, can alter your natural gait and lead to instability. Left untreated, these issues can cause compensatory movements in the hips, knees and back, increasing the risk of a fall. Podiatrists are trained to identify and treat these conditions early. By addressing pain, improving foot function and supporting proper alignment, we can restore a safer, more stable gait.

2. Footwear Advice and Prescription

Wearing the wrong shoes is one of the most common, and preventable, contributors to falls. Loose, slippery or unsupportive footwear can affect your balance and reduce your confidence on your feet. Podiatrists assess your footwear and recommend better alternatives based on your foot type, activity level and balance needs. In some cases, we also prescribe custom orthotics to address underlying biomechanical problems, helping to improve stability and comfort.

3. Nail and Skin Care

It’s easy to underestimate how much a thickened toenail or painful callus can throw off your balance, until it happens. Skin and nail conditions can lead to uneven weight distribution, altered gait and even infections that impact mobility. Regular podiatry care ensures issues like fungal nails, ulcers, corns and calluses are properly managed. This helps reduce pain, improve comfort and maintain confidence when walking.

4. Gait and Balance Evaluation

Podiatrists don’t just treat the feet, we look at the way you move. Gait analysis helps us identify abnormal walking patterns that may increase fall risk. These may be due to pain, weakness, joint restriction or long-term compensations. We often work alongside physiotherapists or other health professionals to address these issues holistically, and tailor a treatment plan that may include stretching, strengthening, orthotics or footwear changes.

5. Fall Risk Screening

Many podiatry clinics now include fall risk assessments as part of routine care, especially for older adults. This may involve testing your lower limb strength, range of motion, balance and proprioception (your sense of where your body is in space). Identifying early changes in these areas allows us to intervene proactively, before a fall occurs.

6. Management of Chronic Conditions

Chronic health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis and peripheral neuropathy can all affect foot function and balance. Diabetic patients, for example, may lose protective sensation in their feet, making it harder to detect pressure or injury. Arthritis can limit joint movement and alter walking mechanics. Podiatrists help manage these underlying conditions to improve foot health, reduce pain and lower fall risk, all while working in partnership with your broader healthcare team.

Take the Next Step Toward Safer Movement

If you or someone you care for is concerned about falls, don’t wait for one to happen. Podiatrists play a vital role in early detection and prevention, with simple, practical strategies that can restore comfort, stability and confidence.

Ready to feel more secure on your feet? Book an appointment today at Merewether & New Lambton Podiatry.

Does Your Child Need a Kid’s Podiatrist? 8 Signs to Look For

strategiqmarketing@gmail.com (Laurence Schuberth) — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 06:49:55 GMT

Does Your Child Need a Kids’ Podiatrist ? 8 Signs to Look Out For

Healthy feet are the foundation for an active, happy childhood. While occasional aches or awkward walking patterns can be part of growing up, some issues need a closer look. If your child shows any of these signs, it may be time to book an appointment with a kids’ podiatrist in Newcastle.

1. Flat Feet

If your child complains of pain in the feet, ankles, or legs and has noticeably flat feet, a podiatrist can assess whether treatment, such as orthotics or strengthening exercises is needed.

2. In-Toeing or Out-Toeing

Commonly called pigeon-toes or duck-feet. Mild variations are normal in young children, but if toeing-in or toeing-out is persistent, worsening, or causing tripping, a podiatrist can investigate.

3. Walking Issues

Frequent tripping, limping, or awkward gait that doesn’t resolve on its own may indicate a structural or neurological issue that needs assessment.

4. Heel Pain

A common cause in children is Sever’s disease, which happens during growth spurts, especially in active kids. Early treatment can keep them in the game without long-term issues.

5. Frequent Foot or Leg Pain

Kids shouldn’t regularly complain of sore feet or legs. Persistent discomfort could point to growth plate inflammation, poor shoe support, or biomechanical problems.

6. Ingrown Toenails

Painful, recurring, or infected ingrown toenails need safe, professional treatment to prevent infection and stop them from coming back.

7. Warts, Calluses, or Other Skin Conditions

Plantar warts, athlete’s foot, or unusual skin growths should be diagnosed and treated correctly to avoid spreading or worsening.

8. Delayed Walking

If your child hasn’t started walking by 18 months, or their walking pattern is very different from peers, a podiatrist can assess and, if needed, refer to other specialists.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Foot problems in childhood can affect posture, balance, and overall mobility as your child grows. Early assessment means we can treat small issues before they turn into big ones and keep kids moving confidently.

At New Lambton Podiatry Clinic, our experienced team works with children of all ages, from toddlers taking their first steps to active teens with sports injuries. We use gentle, evidence-based treatments to support healthy, pain-free movement.

�� Book an appointment today and give your child the best foundation for their future.

Orthotics Newcastle | Custom & Prefabricated Orthotics Explained

strategiqmarketing@gmail.com (Laurence Schuberth) — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 01:26:42 GMT

Orthotics - Everything You Need to Know

Orthotics can make a big difference for people with foot pain, alignment problems, or ongoing injuries. At our Newcastle podiatry clinic, we prescribe both custom and prefabricated orthotics depending on your needs. This guide covers when orthotics may help, the different types available, and what to expect from your fitting.

Do I Need Orthotics? Signs Your Feet Need More Support

Orthotics aren’t just for athletes, they’re for anyone struggling with pain or poor foot mechanics. Common signs you might benefit from orthotics include:

Pain: Arch pain, heel pain, or pain in the balls of your feet.
Tired or Achy Feet: Common in people who stand for long periods (nurses, tradies, miners).
Poor Foot Alignment: Rolling in (pronation) or rolling out (supination).
Uneven Shoe Wear: Shoes wearing out faster on one side.
Chronic Conditions: Diabetes (to prevent sores), arthritis, bunions, hammer toes, or callus build-up.

What orthotics can help with:

Redistribute pressure
Improve alignment
Reduce overuse
Support collapsed arches
Offload painful areas

Custom vs Prefabricated Orthotics: Which One Is Right for You?

Custom Orthotics

Made specifically for your feet using a 3D scan or mold.

Best for:

Persistent or complex foot pain (plantar fasciitis, tibialis posterior dysfunction, arthritis)
Significant bio-mechanical issues (flat feet, high arches, limb length differences)
People with diabetes or neuropathy
Athletes or very active individuals

Features:

Tailored prescription fit
Designed to correct specific problems
Durable
Longer-lasting

Pros:

Precise, targeted support
Can reduce strain on joints, gait and posture
Often partially covered by private health insurance

Cons:

Higher upfront cost

Prefabricated Orthotics

Ready-made inserts that provide general support.

Best for:

Mild to moderate discomfort
General arch support
Temporary or short-term use

Features:

Standard sizes, sometimes heat-moldable
More affordable and widely available

Pros:

Quick and convenient
Good option before committing to custom orthotics

Cons:

Less precise fit
May not address complex or long-term issues

How Orthotics Can Help with Back, Hip and Knee Pain

Your feet affect the alignment of your whole body. Orthotics can improve mechanics higher up the chain, helping to reduce pain in the knees, hips, and back.

Knee Pain:

Improve patella (kneecap) tracking
Reduce stress on medial and lateral joint compartments
Help with conditions like patellofemoral pain, ITB syndrome, knee osteoarthritis

Hip Pain:

Reduce excessive hip movement caused by pronation or limb length differences
Improve pelvic stability and reduce lateral hip strain
Helpful for gluteal tendinopathy, hip bursitis, and trochanteric pain

Lower Back Pain:

Correct leg length discrepancies
Reduce pelvic tilt and lumbar spine strain
Support posture-related back pain

Can Orthotics Improve Running Performance?

For runners, orthotics can do more than reduce pain, they may also enhance performance.

Benefits:

Correct biomechanical issues for smoother stride and less wasted energy
Improve stability and proprioception (awareness of foot placement)
Delay fatigue by reducing muscle overload
Reduce injury risk (plantar fasciitis, shin splints, Achilles tendinopathy, ITB syndrome, runner’s knee)

Custom Orthotics for Performance:

Can be tailored with lightweight or firmer materials
Designed to fit in racing flats, spikes, or trainers
Forefoot support can improve propulsion

Note: Not all runners need orthotics. If your foot mechanics are efficient and you’re injury-free, they may not provide extra benefit. A podiatry gait assessment is the best way to find out.

Learn more: A 2020 study published in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine found that custom foot orthoses improved repeated sprint performance in runners, supporting the idea that orthotics can enhance speed and efficiency, not just reduce pain.

Are Your Orthotics Working?

Even custom orthotics don’t last forever. You may need a review if:

Your foot, heel, knee, hip, or back pain has returned (or changed).
Your orthotics feel uncomfortable or awkward.
You notice obvious wear and tear (cracking, flattening, loss of shape).
You’ve had body changes (weight change, pregnancy, surgery, increased activity).
Your shoes don’t fit the same way.
It’s been more than 12–24 months since your last review.

A quick check-up ensures your orthotics are still giving you the right support.

Fitting Orthotics: What to Expect at Your Appointment

When orthotics are dispensed, your podiatrist will:

Check comfort and fit in your shoes
Make adjustments if needed
Provide wear-in instructions (usually start with 1–2 hours per day)
Explain normal adaptation symptoms (mild muscle soreness is common at first)

Follow-up:

Usually scheduled within 2–4 weeks
Progress is monitored and adjustments made if required

Take the Next Step with Newcastle Orthotics

Whether you’re dealing with foot pain, injury, or looking to improve your performance, orthotics may help. At our Newcastle podiatry clinic, we assess your gait, biomechanics, and overall health to prescribe the right orthotics for you.

�� Book an appointment today and give your feet the support they deserve.

new-lambton-podiatry-2026

How to Choose the Right Treatment for Plantar Warts

Should You Treat a Plantar Wart?

Treatment Pathways Explained

﻿

Conservative (Low Discomfort) Options

Moderate Intensity Options

Advanced Options for Stubborn Warts

When to Pause Treatment

Understanding Plantar Warts: Infection, Transmission & Prevention

The Virus Behind Plantar Warts

﻿

How Plantar Warts Are Transmitted

Why Plantar Warts Can Persist

Why Assessment Matters

﻿

Heel Fissures Explained: Causes, Care & Long-Term Prevention

Common Triggers for Heel Fissures

Preventing Future Cracks

Preventing Common Summer Foot Problems: What You Need to Know Before the Heat Arrives

The Most Common Summer Foot Conditions

How to Prevent Summer Foot Issues

When to See a Podiatrist

Everything You Need to Know About Ingrown Toenails​

Everything You Need to Know About Ingrown Toenails​

What to Expect at Your First Visit to Our Podiatrist Clinic

Welcome to our clinic! We are here to help you feel comfortable and confident with your foot health. Here is what you can expect at your first appointment

Arrival and check in:

Initial consultation:

How our Podiatrist clinic supports patients of all ages

Inside our Podiatrist clinic: Meet the team behind your foot care

Your Feet Deserve Expert Care

Expert Foot Care for All Ages

Welcome to our clinic!

﻿ We are here to help you feel comfortable and confident with your foot health. Here is what you can expect at your first appointment

Podiatry Services Play a Significant Role in Preventing Falls

Does Your Child Need a Kid’s Podiatrist? 8 Signs to Look For

Does Your Child Need a Kids’ Podiatrist ? 8 Signs to Look Out For

Orthotics Newcastle | Custom & Prefabricated Orthotics Explained

Orthotics - Everything You Need to Know

Do I Need Orthotics? Signs Your Feet Need More Support

Custom vs Prefabricated Orthotics: Which One Is Right for You?

Custom Orthotics

Prefabricated Orthotics

How Orthotics Can Help with Back, Hip and Knee Pain

Can Orthotics Improve Running Performance?

Are Your Orthotics Working?

Fitting Orthotics: What to Expect at Your Appointment

Take the Next Step with Newcastle Orthotics

Everything You Need to Know About Ingrown Toenails

Everything You Need to Know About Ingrown Toenails

We are here to help you feel comfortable and confident with your foot health. Here is what you can expect at your first appointment