The road back to school and sport - how can my child avoid the pitfalls of pre-season training?

As the summer holidays wind down, it’s time to gear up for another school year. Along with sharpening pencils and packing lunchboxes, it’s important to ensure your child’s feet are ready for the term ahead. Ill-fitting shoes or unnoticed foot issues can lead to discomfort, poor posture, or even long-term problems. Back-to-School Footwear Checklist Here are some top tips to keep in mind when choosing school shoes for your kids: · Proper Fit is Key: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can lead to blisters, rubbing, or even hinder foot development. Always measure your child’s feet for length and width before purchasing. · Room to Grow – But Not Too Much!: While kids grow quickly, oversized shoes can cause instability and increase the risk of tripping. Aim for about a finger's width of space at the front of the shoe. · Support Matters: Look for shoes with a firm heel counter, a flexible forefoot, and a supportive arch. This combination helps prevent foot fatigue and supports healthy growth. If your child wears orthoses, make sure these can be fitted into any new shoes. · Breathable Materials: Children are active! Shoes made from breathable fabrics like leather or mesh will help keep their feet cool and comfortable throughout the day. · Durability: A quality sole that’s non-slip and durable is essential for playground adventures and classroom days alike. Children’s feet grow rapidly, and minor issues can escalate quickly if left unchecked. Conditions like flat feet, ingrown toenails, or uneven walking patterns often go unnoticed until they cause pain or discomfort. That’s why regular check-ups with a podiatrist are vital. At Junction Foot and Ankle Group, our team of experienced podiatrists can assess your child’s feet and provide tailored advice on footwear, activity modifications, and any potential treatment. If they need their orthoses checked, now is a good time to do that too, before you purchase new footwear for the school year. Give us a call at Junction Foot and Ankle Group on 9250 1676.

Summer's here, and so are those beach days we all love. But before you slip into just any pair of thongs, let’s talk about what keeps your feet happy all season long! Thongs may feel like the ultimate choice for beach vibes and convenience, but if they lack the right support, they can actually lead to some pretty painful problems down the line. The Lowdown on Thong Support While thongs are perfect for those carefree moments, many don’t offer the support our feet actually need. Without supportive heel or ankle straps, our toes often end up gripping onto the thong as we walk. This toe-scrunching motion can create tension that travels from your feet to your neck—no fun! And for those with increased pronation (when feet roll inwards), poor support can mean extra stress on the feet, leading to issues like bunions and even plantar fasciitis. The solution? Look for thongs that offer arch support, like the range from Archies. These beauties not only look good but also come with proper arch support, heel elevation, and comfy materials in loads of colours and styles (even with a bit of bling)! Or if thongs are not really your thing, check out our range of Archies Slides. You are welcome to come in to grab a pair, even if you don’t have an appointment. They make great Christmas presents too! Keep Your Feet Summer-Ready While you’re slipping into those supportive thongs, don’t forget about the skin on your feet! Hot summer days can lead to dry, cracked heels if they’re not moisturised. Here are a few quick tips: Moisturise Regularly: Use a hydrating foot cream daily, focusing on your heels and any dry patches. Hydrate from Within: Staying hydrated makes a difference for your skin—drink plenty of water. Consider a Podiatry Check-up: Summer can be rough on our feet. A podiatry review can catch any issues early, so you can keep moving comfortably all season. Remember, happy feet make for a happier summer. With supportive thongs and a bit of skin TLC, you’ll be ready for all the fun in the sun! Our team of Podiatrists at Junction Foot and Ankle Group love these thongs and slides so much that we stock them at our clinic. Come in and grab a pair. If you need further foot advice, or treatment to get your feet ready for summer, like removing hard skin or dry cracked heels, come in and see us. Give us a call at Junction Foot and Ankle Group on 9250 1676

At Junction Foot and Ankle Group, we're all about giving you the best foot and ankle care. Part of that means helping you make the most of your health fund. Health Fund Reset: Most funds reset benefits at the start of the calendar year, meaning unused perks vanish – now is a great time to check your cover! Act Now: If you're considering Podiatric treatment, now's the time! Get the most out of your 2024 benefits before they disappear. Flexible Appointments: We're open Monday to Friday, with before and after-hours timeslots available. We Offer All Services: General, ingrown toenails, biomechanical, diabetic, sports, and even surgery. Cutting-Edge Technology: We use the latest in digital video gait analysis and 3D scanning for orthotics. Shockwave Therapy: Effective treatment for heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis. Don't miss out! Book your appointment today to secure your preferred time before the end of the year.

We’re so excited to share some fantastic news about the range of prescription orthotics we offer! Gone are the days when orthotic devices were one-size-fits-all, often bulky, hard and challenging to fit into your everyday footwear. At Junction Foot and Ankle Group, we understand that every foot is unique and that your orthotic solutions should be too. We offer a variety of custom orthotics that are tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you need a pair for your running shoes, dress shoes, or even footy boots, we can create orthotics that fit perfectly. An innovative 'grind-fit' service allows us to fine-tune the size and shape of your orthotics so they slip effortlessly into most footwear, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on comfort or style.  We’re proud to incorporate the latest digital technology into our services. We use state-of-the-art 3D foot scanning technology which captures the exact shape and contours of your feet, enabling us to craft orthotics that provide optimal support and comfort. Whether you have a difficult-to-fit foot type or specific requirements, we can provide specialised devices designed just for you. As the winter season finals season kick off, we want to wish the best of luck to all teams! Remember, whether you’re on the field or supporting from the sidelines, your feet deserve the best care. Let us help keep you at the top of your game with our custom-fitted orthotics. We pride ourselves on being able to provide availability for our patients, with same-day appointments usually available. Make an appointment with one of our team today we look forward to helping you put your best foot forward!

 Meet Emily, a lively woman whose visit to the Podiatrist highlights the importance of regular foot care. Emily’s Story Emily loved to stay active. She enjoyed running in the mornings, hiking on weekends, and dancing whenever she got the chance (much to the embarrassment of her teenage kids). One day, she noticed a sharp pain in her heel after a particularly long run. "Oh great," she thought, "my foot’s staging a rebellion." Weeks passed, and the pain worsened. Emily was limping like a pirate with a wooden leg, earning her the nickname “Captain Limpy,” which was funny until it wasn’t. After much persuasion and a chocolate cake bribe, she made an appointment with one of our Podiatrists. It turned out Emily had plantar fasciitis, a common condition causing heel pain, often from overuse and improper footwear. Our Podiatrist recommended a treatment plan that included rest (Emily’s eyes widened in horror), specific stretching exercises, custom orthotic insoles to support her feet, and general footwear advice. Emily followed our advice diligently, taking a break from running, focusing on her stretching exercises, and investing in good-quality shoes. Gradually, her heel pain subsided, and Emily felt more comfortable walking and standing. Emily improved without needing changes to her treatment plan, though shockwave therapy was discussed if symptoms worsened. With her pain significantly decreased, and making sure to wear her orthotic insoles, Emily was ready to ease back into her activities and start incorporating light exercise. A Lesson Learned Through her journey, Emily learned the importance of taking care of her feet and seeking professional help when needed. She realised that ignoring foot pain made things worse and that regular Podiatrist visits prevent small issues from becoming major problems.

If you have diabetes, you are probably already aware of the importance of maintaining optimal foot health to prevent complications. Getting your feet checked annually is key to ensuring they stay in great shape and minimise the risk of developing problems. Diabetes isn't just about sugar levels—it can affect your nerves and blood flow, leading to symptoms like numbness, burning, decreased or loss of sensation, and compromised wound healing. But there's plenty we can do to help prevent these issues, and that's where our team of Podiatrists at Junction Foot and Ankle Group comes in. We have a wealth of experience in diabetic foot care. Through meticulous assessment and attentive care, we can identify early signs of trauma, ulcerations, or sensory deficits, empowering you with timely interventions and preventative strategies. At Junction Foot and Ankle Group, we place great emphasis on the importance of annual assessments as a cornerstone of preventative care. We'll send you a reminder each year (or earlier if needed), so you don't have to worry about remembering. These regular check-ups help us keep track of any changes and tackle any concerns before they become bigger problems. We are dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care and support. Let’s work together towards healthier feet. To make an appointment, call 9250 1676 or follow the link to book online.

Are you experiencing discomfort in the arches of your feet? You're not alone. In this month’s newsletter, we'll explore the causes of this common issue, how a Podiatrist can help, and the options available to ease the discomfort. A number of factors can cause or contribute to foot arch pain. Some of the most common include activities that place repetitive stress on the arches, such as running or standing for long periods, structural abnormalities like flat feet or high arches, wearing shoes that are unsupportive or have inadequate arch support, and trauma or injury to the foot, such as a sprain or fracture. Podiatrists are here to help, no matter the cause, as they can conduct a thorough examination of your feet to determine the underlying cause of your arch pain. They'll give your feet a good once-over, checking out your walk, foot structure, and how everything moves. Based on their evaluation, the Podiatrist will develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This could be a combination of conservative measures and interventions to address the root cause of your pain. It might mean buying a new pair of supportive footwear or slipping in some custom orthotic inserts to provide additional cushioning and proper arch support. In some cases, they may also suggest targeted exercises and stretches to help strengthen the muscles supporting the arches and improve flexibility. Now for some home remedies! Some easy things to do at home include resting the feet and applying ice packs to help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, taking over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, to manage pain and inflammation, and, of course, performing regular stretching exercises recommended by your Podiatrist. Remember, addressing foot arch pain early and seeking professional guidance from a Podiatrist can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your overall foot health. If you're experiencing persistent arch pain, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of our qualified Podiatrists at Junction Foot & Ankle Group. Call us on 9250 1676 or head to our website to book online.

Fit Feet Equals Fit Kids As the new school year approaches, parents and caregivers are gearing up for the annual ritual of school shoe shopping. Amidst considerations of price, quality, and style, one crucial factor often takes a back seat—foot health. In this guide, we're offering valuable insights and tips to ensure your child steps into the new school year with confidence and comfort. Finding the Perfect Fit When it comes to school shoes, the right fit is non-negotiable. Our podiatrists can simplify this process by measuring your child's foot, recommending suitable brands, and addressing specific considerations for extra-wide or narrow feet. Booking an appointment with us ensures that your child leaps into 2024 with well-fitting shoes. Prioritise Foot and Ankle Health If your child experiences rashes, foot or leg pain, or frequent falls, it's time to prioritise their foot and ankle health. Our podiatrists provide professional advice and support to help you better understand and care for your child's feet. Whether it's your first visit or a routine check-up, we're here to ensure your child is ready for the school year ahead. School Shoe Shopping Tips Follow these simple tips to make school shoe shopping a breeze: Properly measure your child's feet. Ensure toes can move freely, allowing 1cm growing room. Seek professional assistance or schedule a check-up with our podiatrists if needed. As you embark on the back-to-school journey, remember that your child's foot health plays a pivotal role in their overall well-being and success. Book an appointment with us today for expert guidance, and let's make this school year confident and pain-free for your children.

Have you ever wondered about the minds and hearts behind Junction Foot & Ankle Group? It's time to give you a peek behind the scenes and introduce you to the heartbeat of our family practice. Julie and Michael Taranto, a dynamic duo both in and out of the clinic, run Junction with a shared vision of creating a haven for foot care where expertise meets empathy. But Junction isn't just a workplace; it's a family, and we want you to feel like part of it. Journey to Junction More than 20 years ago, Julie acquired Junction Podiatry, which at the time was being run two or three half days a week. Having initially started working in Midland at the Swan Medical Group, demands for foot care rapidly expanded, requiring additional consulting time. Julie purchased Junction Podiatry, where Michael (her husband and also a podiatrist) later joined her, to accommodate this growth. The practice underwent substantial refurbishment and moved to its current location on The Crescent. Today, Junction Foot & Ankle Group thrives as a symbol of commitment to elevating Allied Health services in the local community. Trustworthy Foot Care Beyond qualifications, what defines us is trust. Junction Foot & Ankle Group's core values revolve around mutual respect for both team members and patients. Our approach to foot and ankle care is practical, evidence-based, and aims to offer real value for money. Empowering patients with information and choices, the team emphasises empathy, consistency, and professionalism. Trust is paramount, evident in the long-term relationships with patients, some spanning multiple generations. The clinic also adheres to Podiatry Board guidelines, fostering an open-door policy for transparent communication among team members. The Team Ethos Junction Foot & Ankle Group is more than the sum of its parts. It's a collective of podiatrists, support staff, and smiling faces eager to make your footcare journey exceptional. Each member of our team shares a commitment to our culture of respect and inclusivity. Whether it's a warm welcome from our front desk or expert care from our practitioners, you're in the hands of professionals who genuinely care and love coming to work What to Expect Our clinic isn't just about treating symptoms; it's about understanding the person behind the feet. Expect personalised care plans, empathetic consultations, and an environment that feels less like a medical appointment and more like a visit with friends who genuinely care about your well-being. Julie and Michael invite you to dive into the heart of Junction Foot & Ankle Group. Whether you're a familiar face or someone considering joining our family, we want you to feel the warmth, trust, and dedication that define us. Stay tuned for more updates, insights, and perhaps a few tales from behind the scenes. Because at Junction, it's not just about feet; it's about the people we help put their best foot forward.