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Everything You Need to Know

FAQ

Appointments & Bookings

Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?

No referral is required.

How do I book an appointment?

You can book an appointment directly via our website or email us at alignapodiatry@gmail.com or call us at 03 9857 6668.

Do you offer after-hours appointments?

After-hours appointments may be available upon request and are subject to availability. Please call our clinic to discuss after-hours appointments.

Are your clinics walk-in or appointment only?

We recommend booking an appointment to ensure dedicated time with your podiatrist, however, walk-ins may be accepted if appointment slots are available.

Do you offer bulk billing?

We’re a private billing clinic and we do not offer bulk billing, so an out-of-pocket cost applies to appointments. This allows us to give every patient unhurried, one-on-one time and to continually invest in the highest standard of care using the latest technology. We believe this delivers better and more advanced treatment options. If you’d like to know more about our fees or what to expect, please call or email us.

What conditions do you treat?

We treat a wide range of foot, ankle, knee and lower limb conditions for all ages, from everyday concerns to more complex presentations. This includes heel and arch pain (such as plantar fasciitis), Achilles pain, knee pain, bunions, flat feet and gait issues, leg cramps, and hip or back pain caused by a difference in leg length. We also help with sports and overuse injuries, and biomechanical problems affecting how you move. If you’re not sure whether we can help with your concern, please call or email us. We’re always happy to point you in the right direction.

Your First Visit

What should I bring to my first appointment?

To help us make the most of your appointment, we recommend bringing the following where relevant:

  • Any recent medical reports, referral letters, or imaging (such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans) related to your condition
  • Your current orthotics, insoles, or braces if you have them
  • Footwear you wear most often i.e everyday shoes, work shoes, or sports shoes
  • Private health insurance card (physical or digital on Apple Wallet/Google Wallet) if you intend to claim on the day

If you’re unsure whether something is relevant, feel free to bring it along — we’re happy to review it with you.

How long does an appointment take?

Initial consultations may take up to 40 minutes. Subsequent appointments usually take approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on the treatment required.
Treatments & Services

What conditions do you treat?

We treat a wide range of foot, ankle, and lower-limb conditions including heel pain, plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, fungal nails, flat feet, high-arched feet, ankle pain, shin splints, Morton’s neuroma, bursitis, warts, knee pain and more.

Do you focus on non-surgical treatments?

Yes. We prioritise evidence-based, non-invasive treatments wherever possible. As we are a holistic clinic, we look at the whole picture — your gait, your footwear, your load, your habits — and address the cause, not just the symptom. Surgery is only ever discussed when conservative options have been genuinely explored, and if it is needed, we’ll refer you to a trusted specialist and stay involved in your care.

Do you offer custom orthotics?

Yes. We design and manufacture custom orthotics using advanced biomechanical assessments and our in-house orthotic laboratory.

Do you treat knee pain?

Yes. Knee pain is one of the most common issues we see, because how your foot strikes the ground directly changes the load travelling through your knee. We assess your feet, gait and lower limb function to identify what’s driving your symptoms, then treat with a combination of custom orthoses, footwear advice, shockwave or laser therapy and targeted loading programs.

Do you start treatment in the first consultation?

Absolutely! We focus on getting started immediately. Your initial consultation includes a full assessment and treatment begins on the same day. That might mean laser or shockwave therapy, footwear changes or a first exercise prescription. You’ll leave with a clear diagnosis, and a personalised treatment plan.

Do you speak other languages?

Yes. Our podiatrist speaks English, fluent Mandarin, Indonesian, Malay and basic Spanish, so you’re welcome to explain things in whichever language feels most natural to you. If your preferred language isn’t listed, let us know when you book and we’ll do our best to accommodate you — you’re also very welcome to bring a family member or friend to help interpret.
Payments & Health Funds

Do you accept private health insurance?

Yes. We accept most private health funds. Rebates may apply depending on your level of cover. Please bring your private health insurance card (physical or digital on Apple Wallet/Google Wallet) if you intend to claim on the day.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept cash, EFTPOS and major card payments. Please contact your clinic directly if you have specific payment enquiries.
Clinic location

Where is your clinic located?

Our clinic is located at 302 Doncaster Road, Balwyn North.

Is parking available at the clinic?

Yes. There is ample parking available directly in front of the clinic, with additional side street parking located approximately 20 metres away.
General questions

Do you treat children and sports-related injuries?

Yes. We have experience managing a wide range of conditions, from paediatric developmental concerns to sports and activity-related injuries across all ages and activity levels.

Are the treatments painful?

Most treatments are non-invasive and designed to be as comfortable as possible. We are very aware that everyone experiences discomfort differently, so we take great care to work gently and at a pace that feels right for you. Your podiatrist will explain each step before treatment begins and adjust treatment at any time to ensure your comfort.

What if I’m not sure which service I need?

That’s completely fine. During your initial consultation, we will assess your concerns and guide you toward the most appropriate treatment based on your needs and goals.

Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?

No referral is required to see us. However, a referral may be needed if you are claiming through Medicare and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Do you offer treatment on the first visit?

Yes. During your initial consultation, you can expect a thorough assessment, treatment where appropriate, and the formulation of a personalised treatment plan.

Do you see patients with chronic or long-standing foot pain?

Yes. We regularly manage both acute and chronic foot and lower limb conditions, including long-standing pain and recurring issues.

Can you help if my pain comes and goes?

Absolutely! Intermittent pain often has an underlying cause. Our assessments aim to identify contributing factors and address them to reduce recurrence.

Do you work with other healthcare providers?

Yes. We regularly communicate with GPs, physiotherapists, specialists, and other allied health professionals to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care where required. We may also refer you to another healthcare provider if we identify concerns that require additional assessment or management.

Here to help

If you don’t see your question listed here, our team is happy to help. Call or email us and we will get back to you shortly.

03 9857 6668

alignapodiatry@gmail.com