Orthotics and Biomechanical Assessment in Sydney
Foot, ankle or walking concerns? Our podiatrists provide biomechanical assessment and personalised
orthotic advice at HealthiClinic in Greenwich.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail presses into or breaks the surrounding skin. It most often affects the big toe and can cause tenderness, redness, swelling, overgrown tissue or infection.
Early assessment can help determine whether the nail can be managed conservatively or whether a more definitive procedure is likely to provide a better long-term result.
How Heel Pain Is Assessed
- Pain along one or both sides of the nail
- Redness, swelling or discharge
- Difficulty wearing shoes or walking comfortably
- Repeated flare-ups in the same nail
- Overgrown or persistently swollen tissue
- A previous procedure has not resolved the problem
- Diabetes, poor circulation or reduced sensation
How our podiatrists assess ingrown toenails
Our podiatrists examine the nail shape, the surrounding skin, the degree of inflammation or infection, previous treatment and any factors that may be contributing to recurrence. The aim is to recommend the least invasive option that is appropriate for the severity and history of the problem.
Treatment options
- Advice on nail care and footwear
- Removal of a small nail spike or troublesome edge where appropriate
- Cleaning and management of irritated skin
- Conservative nail care for early or mild cases
- Partial nail avulsion with chemical matrix treatment for selected recurring cases
- Other surgical approaches when the surrounding tissue or nail anatomy requires a different solution
When might a nail procedure be recommended?
A procedure may be considered when pain is significant, the nail repeatedly becomes inflamed or infected, conservative care has not worked, or the nail shape is likely to continue causing problems. Many procedures can be performed in the clinic using local anaesthetic. The podiatrist will explain what is involved, expected recovery, wound care and likely costs before treatment proceeds.
Recurrent, complex or previously treated ingrown toenails
Some nails require more detailed assessment because of previous surgery, persistent swollen tissue, residual nail growth or repeated infection. HealthiClinic Podiatry can assess these cases and determine the most suitable next step.
Where advanced or surgical assessment is appropriate, patients may be seen by Dr Damien Lafferty, Surgical Podiatrist, as part of the broader HealthiClinic Podiatry team.
Care From Our Podiatry Team
HealthiClinic Podiatry provides care through our associate podiatrists and broader clinical team. Patients can begin with a general podiatry assessment and be directed to the most appropriate clinician or treatment pathway.
Meet Dr. Damien Lafferty
Podiatric Surgeon & General Podiatry
Dr Damien Lafferty is a surgical podiatrist based in Sydney, Australia. He has 38 years of podiatry experience, including 29 years of podiatric surgical experience, and has taught at the University of Newcastle for 19 years.
For patients whose concern can be managed through general podiatry, care may remain straightforward. Where a more specialised pathway is appropriate, the initial assessment can help identify the next step.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can an ingrown toenail settle without surgery?
Not necessarily. The podiatrist will first determine whether an orthotic is likely to help and whether a prefabricated, modified or custom option is appropriate.
Can orthotics help heel pain?
They can help some people by changing load and improving comfort, but they are usually one part of a broader heel pain plan.
Can children wear orthotics?
Yes, when clinically indicated. The decision is based on symptoms, function and development rather than
appearance alone.
How long do orthotics last?
This varies with materials, body weight, activity, footwear and growth. Regular review helps determine when adjustment or replacement is needed.
Can my existing orthotics be adjusted?
Often they can. Bring them, along with the shoes you use most, to the appointment.
What shoes should I bring?
Bring everyday, work and sporting shoes that are relevant to your symptoms.
Will the assessment include running?
Running assessment may be included when relevant to the symptoms and the clinic setup.
Do orthotics weaken the feet?
Orthotics do not automatically weaken feet. They are often combined with exercise and activity-based rehabilitation where appropriate.
Do I need a referral?
A referral is generally not required for a private podiatry appointment.
Can private health cover orthotics?
Cover varies between policies. Patients should check podiatry and orthotic benefits directly with their insurer.
Do I need custom orthotics?
Book an assessment with HealthiClinic Podiatry in Greenwich if an ingrown toenail is painful, infected, recurring or interfering with footwear and activity.