At Your Foot Clinic we’re always looking for ways to help our patients and their families better. As we expand our geographical footprint to help serve more Victorians, we’ve welcomed Laura Page to our team. Last week, we spent some time with her in the clinic to get to know her better. Here’s what she had to say about her background and why she became a Podiatrist.
Laura has a Bachelor of Applied Science and Masters in Podiatric Practice. Alongside her formal qualifications she’s also playing her third season of amateur female football in the VAFA. Her team have now won two premierships at the highest level of amateur football offered by the VAFA.
A lover of sport (a big Carlton AFL/W and Vixens Suncorp Super Netball supporter) she also loves playing netball with friends – a hobby she’s enjoyed all her life. But it doesn’t stop there as you’ll also find Laura in a reformer pilates class at least once a week. The latest addition to these hobbies is gardening. As a self-diagnosed novice, Laura is likely to ask for your advice on growing her veggies and fruit when you’re in the clinic!
Here’s what else she shared with us…
What made you want to become a podiatrist?
“The variety of patients and pathologies you see; geriatric patients, paediatric patients, sports injuries, nail surgeries, wounds, diabetic assessment…the list is endless. The health of your feet can makes such a difference to the rest of the body; and effective treatment can have a huge impact on a person’s quality of life”
What University did you study at and what was it like there?
“I went to La Trobe University. It’s a brilliant campus with outstanding podiatry facilities”
What’s the most common thing you get asked about your job from friends and family?
“How can you work with feet all day?”
“I’ve got a really sore foot, what should I do?”
Tell us your favourite thing about being a podiatrist
“Working with people and making a real difference in their lives”
And what is the thing you’re most excited about in your new role?
“Continuing to learn and grow as a clinician; and being able to apply all the years of study at La Trobe to my patients and witness the positive impact it has on their foot health”
What’s the thing people find most surprising when you talk to them about podiatry?
“The diversity of the profession. I find a lot of people think it’s purely cutting toenails!”
Do you have any specialisms within the field?
“Not yet! But I’m very keen to become an endorsed prescriber and provide my patients medication, prescriptions and injections. Becoming endorsed will not only enhance my clinical ability, but also the care I provide to my patients”
What are the main things you’ve done since working with the team at Your Foot Clinic?
“Exposure to an array of different patients and pathologies. I’ve gained experience and confidence providing patients with treatment plans to assist them in their recovery of musculoskeletal injuries and/or conditions. And I’ve mastered Shockwave Therapy”
How would you advise a patient to prepare for an appointment with you? What should they expect?
1. Bring with you the shoes you wear most often for assessment and potential modification.
2. Ask any questions you have – never be afraid of a ‘silly questions’ I’m happy to answer anything you’re unsure of
3. Expect a thorough assessment and explanation of your diagnosis along with a friendly chat (I love to talk)! There’ll be an emphasis on keeping you physically active and moving
What are your top three tips for looking after your feet this coming winter?
1. Moisturise
2. Wear good quality shoes
3. Buy woolen socks to keep warm
If you weren’t a podiatrist, what else would you have been?
“I have a huge passion for indigenous health, so something within that field”
If you are experiencing foot pain or have general questions or concerns about your feet, consider an appointment with a podiatrist – we’re specialists in foot health and would love to welcome you to the clinic.