At a glance
- What it is
- Advice, orthotics and fitting for shoes that suit your feet.
- DVA funding
- Covered for Gold Card holders with a D904 referral from their GP. Nothing to pay.
- Where
- Home visits across Sydney, the Illawarra and the Central Coast
- To book
- Call 0493 367 109, or send a message below
When footwear advice helps
- Your shoes rub, pinch or cause corns and blisters
- Your feet swell or change shape during the day
- You have bunions, hammer toes or other changes in foot shape
- You have diabetes or reduced feeling in your feet
- You feel unsteady on your feet or have had a fall
What we check
We look at the shoes you wear most, including slippers, and check their length, width, depth, support and how they fasten. We'll explain where problems are coming from and what to look for when you buy new shoes.
Orthotics
Orthotics are inserts that go inside your shoes to support your feet, spread pressure more evenly or improve how your feet and legs move. Depending on your needs, we may recommend ready-made orthotics or custom orthotics made to the shape of your feet.
How to check your shoes fit
- There's about a thumb's width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe
- The widest part of your foot sits at the widest part of the shoe
- Your heel doesn't slip out as you walk
- Your toes can wiggle and there's no pressure on top of them
- Try shoes on later in the day, when feet are at their largest, and check both feet
Slippers and falls
Backless slippers and worn-out shoes are a common cause of trips and falls at home. Choose indoor shoes with a closed heel, a secure fastening and a non-slip sole. We're happy to look at what you wear around the house and suggest safer options.
Getting used to orthotics
New orthotics take time to get used to. Start by wearing them for an hour or two a day and build up over a week or two. We'll check how they're going and adjust them if needed. Orthotics wear out over time, so we review them at your regular visits.
Custom and extra-depth footwear
Some feet need shoes made or adapted to fit, such as extra-depth or custom-made footwear. If you hold a DVA card, ask us whether you may be eligible for help with footwear through DVA.