Podiatry

The Your Career website states that Podiatrists prevent, diagnose, and treat disorders of the feet.  On any given day, a Podiatrist will be – 

• examining patients' feet to determine the nature and extent of conditions, deformities, and injuries
• examining and treating foot disabilities caused by diseases such as diabetes, peripheral vascular disorders, rheumatoid arthritis and other neuropathies
• prescribing and arranging the fabrication of footwear to correct foot abnormalities
• performing minor surgery to remove and improve abnormal conditions
• prescribing and fitting replaceable pads, palliative and functional supports and other devices for the protection and correction of foot abnormalities
• advising patients about continued treatment and foot care
• may provide rehabilitation services to the physically handicapped
• may refer patients to or have patients referred from Medical Practitioners.

According to the Good Careers Guide, Podiatrists may develop a special interest in dealing with particular client groups, such as children, the aged or sportspeople.  They may also work in a particular area, such as occupational health, or with general medical conditions that result in foot and leg problems.  This highly-skilled specialisation within the allied health sector is in high demand and there is strong growth.

The only university in Victoria offering an undergraduate qualification in podiatry is La Trobe University – Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours).