The founder of Platinum Health Podiatry, Dr Khaled Assaad, is taking over the Aevum Podiatry clinic in Helensburgh after Nerida Reavell closed her business late last year.
Thanks to Khaled for taking the time to tell us more.
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Hi everyone, my name is Khaled. I’m the new podiatrist within the Illawarra community and am excited to bring my knowledge and skills to help you all with everything podiatry – from general podiatry to biomechanical/sports-related podiatry. I enjoy working with other allied health professionals as well as the local general practitioners. I'm a big foodie and, of course, love my coffee! Love exploring nature and have a big love for animals. Looking forward to meeting you all.
What sparked your interest in podiatry, and where did you study?
I always knew I’d be working in the medical/allied health discipline but never thought I’d be a podiatrist. I started off wanting to be a dentist, however, I chose to focus on a niche within podiatry – which is biomechanics and understanding how the body works to help resolve injuries including foot pain, knee pain, hip pain and even lower back pain.
As I became more confident and understood my position within my field, I have never looked back. I studied at the Western Sydney University, then completed further training/ qualifications in biomechanics, which involves lower limb foot mobilisations and adjustments, injection therapy, dry needling, shockwave therapy and custom orthotic therapy.
What are the most common conditions that you treat?
To name a few of many foot-related conditions:
- plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Morton’s neuroma
The list goes on!
Best part of your job?
Seeing patients improve is definitely the highlight of my job. Noticing the changes from when a patient comes into the clinic in pain and conducting individualised treatment plans for every patient depending on their condition and biomechanics and developing strong connections is what I look forward to most.
Your body is your best investment! Especially your feet that keep you moving!
Most challenging?
I wouldn’t say I experience much challenging parts of my job but it’ll have to be the administration side of things where it can get challenging because time is scarce nowadays.
With term 1 about to start, do you have any tips on buying school shoes?
Always go for a shoe with a firm heel counter – meaning when you attempt to push the heel area down, it is strong and resistant!
Also, do not try to fit any foot into a tight shoe!
To book an appointment, visit the Platinum Health Podiatry website.
Dr Khaled will be in Helensburgh on Mondays & Tuesdays and at Kirrawee on Fridays. All Aevum Podiatry clients are welcome to attend his Helensburgh clinics at 2/ 20-24 Walker Street. Phone: 02 4294 9990 or 0481 796 781 (if urgent/after hours)