Endorsed Podiatrist
Never heard of it!
I became Endorsed in 2021. After two years studying medications applicable to foot medicine, I can prescribe a limited range of medications on private prescription for your foot problem.
Generally, this means I write you a prescription, you go to the chemist and get it filled, then you come back to the clinic and we administer the medication. Some medications are Schedule 2 and 3 - available over the counter at the chemist. Some are Schedule 4 - prescription only. I cannot prescribe Schedule 8 medications or restricted medications. I do not prescribe benzodiazepines or opioids. There are no medicare benefits schedule rebates for private prescriptions.
why is it useful?
It opens up some additional treatment options for you with a podiatrist, instead of needing to get a referral to see a specialist. This can help me manage pain around these procedures as well. An example of this is a corticosteroid injection into the plantar fascia or an intermetatarsal bursa.
You might previously have seen a radiologist for an ultrasound guided injection of local anaesthetic and corticosteroid into your plantar fascia when you've had an intractable case of plantar fasciitis. Or you might know someone who has. Generally, these are done under ultrasound guidance without pain relief. They are very painful injections to receive as the skin of the foot is thick, the corticosteroid is a thick suspension and this means the needle has to be a bit larger. Not to mention your foot really hurts right where the needle goes. As a podiatrist experienced in foot surgical procedures, I can administer a tibial nerve block. Which provides pain relief for the therapeutic injection.
Therapeutic injections
Injections of local anaesthetic and corticosteroid into areas struggling with inflammation can be a useful treatment option. These injections with anaesthetic can also be diagnostic.
wart curettage
Proper application of local anaesthesia using injections enables treatment of large and persistent warts with curettage (excision).
skin infections
Proper treatment with antifungals, antibiotics and surgery of skin conditions is improved with additional knowledge and ability to prescribe medications. I will liaise with your GP to ensure treatment of your condition is followed through.
nail infections
Fungal nail infections are incredibly common. I can prescribe oral medications when appropriate and liaise with your GP for testing and follow up. Having a broad knowledge of fungal nail infections and treatments enables me to give you a realistic prognosis and treatment plan.
joint pain
Gout, osteoarthritis and autoimmune arthritis can be treated with anti-inflammatories in an initial acute attack. I will liaise with your GP to ensure proper follow up of your condition.