Free foot health checks available during National Foot Health Week

The Australian Podiatry Association is hosting the events in light of the rising number of feet problems affecting Australians, including seniors.

A study of 1000 people last year found that almost half of all Australians (42 per cent) have experienced some form of lower limb pain.

More than half of those (57 per cent) said the pain had forced them to reduce walking, while others said they could not exercise as normal (43 per cent) or play with their children as they wished (15 per vent).

Three in five (63 per cent) Australians also admit to having never sought advice regarding their foot health and close to half of all Australians (42 per cent) don't think about the health of their feet, the surbey found.

Frances Henshaw, a podiatrist and lecturer at Western Sydney University, said foot health fits into a "much bigger and deeply important picture".

"Feet are mirrors to your health and can underpin your entire well-being, with foot issues having the ability to influence everything around, including your freedom, relationships, mental health, physical health, activity, travel, independence, mobility, happiness, work and income," Dr Henshaw said.

She said maintaining good foot health and seeking early diagnosis and treatment for foot issues through podiatric care can lead to better health outcomes and reduce the impact of non-communicable diseases.

Susanne Gervay, 67, an Australian children's author with type 2 diabetes, attests to how important foot health has been to her overall well-being.

"People say that 'it's only your feet' but it impacts my whole health," said Ms Gervay, who developed the condition from gestational diabetes while pregnant.

"As a diabetic coupled with inflammatory illnesses my feet can crack, and while it's painful and compromises walking, it can be life-threatening for me.

"Infection can and has seeped into those cracks. Without proper treatment, I could lose my feet."

Kathryn Lee, 54, had debilitating foot pain in the mid-section of her foot that led her into depression.

"The pain I felt was as if someone was driving a hot poker through my right foot," said Ms Lee, an administration manager and waitress from Victoria.

"And it wasn't just my inability to walk: the pain and frustration affected every aspect of my life, including my mental health.

"My podiatrist changed my life, the podiatric treatment was literally a life saver for me."

Victoria: Bourke Street Mall, October 14, 11am-2pm

NSW: Martin Place, Sydney (with The Athlete's Foot), October 15, 11am-2pm

Mondo Community Space, Penrith (with The Athlete's Foot), October 16, 11am-2pm

Queensland: King George Square, Brisbane (with The Athlete's Foot), October 19, 11am-2pm

SA: Hindmarsh Square (southwest end), Adelaide (with The Athlete's Foot), October 18, 11am-2pm

If you can't find an health check in your area and need help with a foot issue, look for a local podiatrist at podiatry.org.au