Ankles and Feet

This condition is treated in the Orthopaedic surgery clinic.

Pre-referral work-up

History

Refer to clinics if conservative treatment fails for the following:

• Arthritis
• Pain and deformity in forefoot (including Bunions)
• Pain and instability in hind Foot
• Achilles tendon pathology
• Heel pain

All referrals should comply to referral standards referral standards and include in particular:

• Duration of condition
• Conservative management undertaken

Previous surgery on area, especially prostheses

Tests

• X Ray (Weight bearing AP, Mortise and lateral for ankle)
• X Ray (Weight bearing AP, Oblique and lateral for foot)

Interim/GP management

To refer a patient with this condition, please see the Orthopaedic Surgery clinic page for the full referral process and templates.

• Analgesics/anti-inflammatory medications
• Physiotherapy
• Podiatry review +/- orthoses
• Comfortable / accommodating shoe wear
• Steroid injection if appropriate - avoid for Achilles tendon pathology

Direct link to Health Pathways - Lower limb folder

For more information please see the HealthPathways Tasmania website.

Clinic appointments

? Red location flags are clinical indicators of possible serious underlying conditions requiring further medical intervention. They may or may not indicate an emergency.

Urgent (Category 1)

? Fractures that have been treated with initial management in ED or general Practice

We will endeavour to see these patients within four weeks, or sooner if clinically indicated.

Semi-urgent (Category 2)

 Avascular necrosis of ankle

Availability

North

Launceston General Hospital (Level 2)
Phone: 1300 977 694
Fax: 03 6777 5203

Note:  The easiest way to access the clinic is through the Frankland Street entrance (near Cafeteria)

North West

North West Regional Hospital
Phone: 6493 6300
Fax: 6464 1928

Mersey Community Hospital
Phone: 6478 5500 
Fax: 6441 5928

South

Wellington Clinics (Level 12)
Phone: 03 6166 0000
Fax: 03 6234 9636