What ankle and foot conditions does Dr Wells treat?

Dr Wells treats a full range of ankle and foot conditions including lateral ligament ankle sprains, syndesmosis (high ankle) injuries, Achilles tendinopathy and rupture, plantar fasciitis, metatarsal and navicular stress fractures, Lisfranc injuries, osteochondral lesions of the talus, chronic ankle instability, and posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.

I keep rolling my ankle - is this something that can be fixed?

Recurrent ankle rolling is a sign of chronic ankle instability, which often responds well to a structured rehabilitation program targeting strength and proprioception. Dr Wells can assess the degree of ligament laxity, identify any associated osteochondral lesions, and prescribe a targeted program. In some cases, imaging or surgical referral is warranted.

How is Achilles tendinopathy different from a rupture?

Achilles tendinopathy involves degeneration and pain within the tendon without a full tear, whereas a rupture is a complete or partial structural failure of the tendon. Tendinopathy is managed conservatively with load management, exercise therapy, and sometimes shockwave or injection therapy. A rupture requires urgent assessment and may need surgical management. Dr Wells can differentiate these clinically and with ultrasound.

What is a Lisfranc injury and how serious is it?

A Lisfranc injury involves damage to the ligaments or bones connecting the midfoot to the forefoot. It can range from a mild ligament sprain to a severe fracture-dislocation. This injury is often missed on initial assessment. Dr Wells is experienced in identifying Lisfranc injuries and coordinating appropriate management, which may include immobilisation, non-weight-bearing, or surgical referral.

Do I need imaging for a foot stress fracture?

Plain X-rays often miss early stress fractures. MRI is the gold standard for diagnosis and is particularly important for high-risk sites like the navicular. Dr Wells will assess your clinical presentation and arrange appropriate imaging. Return-to-sport timelines and management depend on the fracture site, grade, and your individual circumstances.

Ankle & Foot Injuries

Specialist diagnosis and evidence-based treatment for ankle sprains, Achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and complex foot injuries. All ages and activity levels welcome.

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Understanding Ankle & Foot Injuries

Ankle and foot injuries are among the most common conditions I see on the Sunshine Coast - affecting runners, surfers, footballers, and active people of all ages across Noosa, Kawana and Caloundra. The ankle is the most frequently sprained joint in the body, and the foot - with its twenty-six bones and complex ligament network - is vulnerable to both acute and overuse injuries.

Inadequately managed ankle injuries are one of the leading causes of chronic problems. A number of ankle sprains result in persistent symptoms or recurrent instability if not properly assessed and rehabilitated. Early specialist assessment ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle Sprains & Instability

Lateral ligament sprains - Injury to the ATFL, CFL, or PTFL ligaments on the outside of the ankle. Grading and specific ligament involvement guide treatment and rehabilitation.
Syndesmosis injuries (high ankle sprain) - Injury to the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula above the ankle joint. These take significantly longer to recover and sometimes require surgical fixation.
Chronic ankle instability - Recurrent giving way and persistent symptoms. May require advanced rehabilitation or surgical stabilisation.

Achilles Tendon Conditions

Achilles tendinopathy - Chronic tendon pain and dysfunction. Responds well to structured loading programs and may benefit from shockwave therapy.
Achilles tendon rupture - Acute complete or partial tear requiring urgent assessment. Treatment may be surgical or conservative depending on individual factors.

Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, characterised by pain under the heel that is typically worst with the first steps in the morning. Persistent cases benefit from specialist assessment including load management, exercise prescription, and shockwave therapy.

Stress Fractures & Bone Stress

The foot is one of the most common sites for stress fractures, particularly in runners. Common locations include the metatarsals and navicular. See Bone Stress Injuries for more detail.

Other Conditions

Lisfranc injuries - Often missed midfoot injuries with serious consequences if not managed appropriately.
Osteochondral lesions of the talus - Cartilage and bone damage within the ankle joint.
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction - Progressive flattening of the foot arch.
Morton's neuroma - Nerve compression in the forefoot causing pain between the toes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a GP referral to see Dr Wells?

A GP referral is not required but is recommended. Dr Wells has access to top-tier Medicare rebate rates (MBS A4), so with a referral your rebate is maximised, with approximately $150 rebate back to you on an initial consultation. Without a referral, the full specialist fee applies with no Medicare rebate. See the FAQ page for more detail.

Does private health insurance cover the consultation?

Private health insurance does not cover specialist medical consultations. However, Dr Wells has access to top-tier Medicare rebate rates (MBS A4), so with a valid GP referral your rebate is maximised, with approximately $150 rebate back to you on an initial consultation. Dr Wells can also refer for Medicare-rebateable MRI scans. See the FAQ page for more detail.

How long will I wait for an appointment?

Routine appointments are typically available within 1-2 weeks. Urgent referrals - such as acute ankle injuries or suspected stress fractures - are prioritised and can often be seen sooner. Contact the clinic on (07) 5415 0428 for urgent bookings.