October 14, 2025Podiatry Week 2025 invites us to reflect on our feet’s remarkable journey through life — from a baby’s first steps and the balance they learn, to the miles we walk through work, sport and everyday living. It’s the perfect time to pause and appreciate the incredible work our feet do for us every day.
To shine a light on the vital role of podiatry and orthotics, we spoke with members of the Northern Health Podiatry and Orthotics team. They shared insights into their areas of expertise and what they find most rewarding about helping clients stay mobile and pain-free.
Tim Butters, Podiatrist, Foot Procedure Unit, Craigieburn Centre– Treating ingrown toenails
Podiatrists play a crucial role in managing ingrown toenails, using surgery only as a last resort. Through specialist care, podiatrists can often resolve the problem in its early stages by trimming nails to prevent them from growing into the skin, removing problematic edges, and educating clients about causes — from self-treatment issues to footwear choices and nail shape.
When needed, podiatrists perform nail surgery under local anaesthetic, including procedures to remove part (PNA-Partial Nail Avulsion) or all (TNA- Total Nail Avulsion) of the affected nail.
“It’s very satisfying to help clients with painful ingrown nails that stop them from working, exercising or enjoying daily life. Seeing someone come in unable to walk comfortably and return a few weeks later, pain-free and back to their normal activities, is incredibly rewarding,” said Tim.
Robert Beavan, Podiatrist, Foot Procedure Unit, Northern Hospital Epping – Wound Care in Podiatry
“I enjoy working in wound care because it’s both challenging and rewarding. Many patients come in feeling anxious — our role is to provide clear information, collaborate on a management plan, and help them heal.”
“Podiatrists bring a wide range of skills to wound care, including debridement, vascular assessment, casting, and minor surgery. Increasingly, podiatrists are also endorsed to prescribe medications.”
“Being able to deliver such valuable care for foot wounds makes for a deeply fulfilling career.”
Bianca Goodwin, Podiatrist, Foot Procedure Unit, Broadmeadows Hospital – Blood Flow Assessments
Podiatrists play a vital role in conducting non-invasive vascular assessments to evaluate blood flow in the lower limbs. These assessments — including pulse checks, Doppler ultrasounds, toe pressures, and ABI or TBI measurements — help identify peripheral vascular disease and other circulation issues, guiding treatment and referrals.
They’re especially important for individuals with diabetes, smokers, or those with wounds, numbness, or leg pain. Early detection allows podiatrists to implement preventive measures and reduce the risk of serious complications.
Vascular assessments include:
- Visual inspection: Observing skin colour, temperature and condition.
- Pulse checks: Assessing strength and regularity.
- Doppler: Measuring blood flow using waveforms.
- Toe pressures: Detecting narrowing or blockages.
- ABI/TBI: Comparing blood pressure between the arms and ankles to assess arterial health.
“We work closely with vascular surgeons, and when peripheral arterial disease is detected, clients are referred for surgical evaluation. Once blood flow improves, patients often experience reduced pain, faster wound healing, and greater mobility,” said Bianca.
Kyle Martin-Alcaide, Orthotist, Northern Hospital Epping – Orthotics and Wound Care
Orthotics play an essential role in both preventing and healing foot wounds by redistributing weight and offloading pressure from vulnerable areas. Reducing excessive pressure improves blood flow, supports tissue repair, and accelerates healing.
“Helping with wound care is deeply gratifying because the impact is immediate and visible. Supporting patients through recovery helps restore their independence, reduce pain, and improve their quality of life. For many, it means returning to work or simply enjoying time with their families again — and that’s incredibly fulfilling,” said Kyle.
Tim Butters – Working in the Paediatric Clinic
“Working in the children’s clinic is always fun — no two days are ever the same. I enjoy adapting assessments from observation to hands-on movement testing, depending on each child’s needs.”
“It’s incredibly gratifying to help children overcome foot pain so they can get back to playing sport or running around without discomfort. Sometimes, it’s simply about reassuring parents that their child’s leg alignment will improve naturally with growth and development. Watching that progress over time is always rewarding,” he said.
This Podiatry Week, let’s celebrate our Northern Health Podiatry and Orthotics team for keeping our community steady on their feet — from first steps to next steps.
