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Post Treatment Support

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Thank you for visiting Foot, Ankle & Body Experts. This page is here to support your recovery journey after your appointment.

Below, you’ll find easy-to-follow guidelines tailored to the specific treatment you received, including what to expect, how to care for the area at home, and when to get in touch. Whether you’ve had shockwave therapy, laser treatment, an injection, or manual therapy, everything you need is right here.

If you found your experience helpful, we’d be truly grateful if you could leave us a review on Google. Your feedback supports our team and helps others find the care they need.

And of course, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

Post Injection Guidelines

Focus Shockwave Guidelines

PBM Laser Guidelines

Fire Cupping Guidelines

Sports Massage Guidelines

Dry Needle Guidelines

Post Toenail Surgery Guidelines

Fungal Nail Therapy Support

Post Injection Guidelines:

If you’ve received a Pure P.R.P injection, a Prolotherapy injection, or P.R.P combined with Hyaluronic Acid, here’s some general information on how your body may respond.

Potential Response Post Injection:

 

  • Pain and Discomfort: It’s normal to experience some pain and discomfort at the injection site, and this can vary from person to person. While some may feel only mild discomfort, others might experience more intense pain. Prolotherapy injections tend to cause more inflammation and discomfort compared to PRP, as a foreign solution is used instead of your own blood.
  • Swelling and Redness: You may notice swelling and redness around the injection area. This is a normal part of the inflammatory response and should subside within a few days.
  • Stiffness and Limited Mobility: Temporary stiffness and reduced mobility in the treated area can occur. This usually improves as inflammation decreases.
  • Bruising: Bruising at the injection site is common and should fade with time.
  • Individual Variability: Everyone’s body reacts differently, so the intensity of your symptoms may vary. As long as your symptoms fall within this range, it’s generally considered normal.
  • Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep an eye on how your body responds. If you experience symptoms outside of the expected range or have concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact the clinic.

Post-Procedure Care:

 

  • First 48 hours: During the first 48 hours after an injection, avoid strenuous activities and rest the treated area to minimise strain. Use the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for comfort, and apply a cold pack for 15-20 minutes every few hours, ensuring it does not directly touch the skin. Take Panadol for pain relief if necessary.
  • Avoid Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Refrain from using anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen, Nurofen, Diclofenac, Indomethacin, Mobic, or Celebrex for at least 6 weeks after your procedure, as they can hinder the healing process.
  • Avoid Systemic Steroids: Please avoid taking systemic steroids like Prednisone or Hydrocortisone for at least 4 weeks following your procedure to ensure optimal healing.
  • Avoid Cortisone Injections: It’s important not to have cortisone injections in the treated area for at least 8 weeks after your procedure.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol may delay your recovery and should be avoided during the healing process.
  • Smoking: Smoking can significantly slow down your healing, so it’s best to avoid it during your recovery.
  • Stay Hydrated: Make sure to drink at least 2 liters of water daily to support your body’s healing. Note that tea, coffee, and soda do not count towards your water intake.
  • Use of Brace or Moon Boot: You may be prescribed a brace or moon boot to provide stability and relief. Follow Dr. Kim’s instructions for how and when to wear it to promote recovery.

Post Focus Shockwave Therapy Guidelines:

What to Expect After Treatment

Shockwave therapy works by stimulating your body’s natural healing processes. It’s normal to experience some temporary effects as your body responds:

  • Mild discomfort or soreness in the treated area may occur and usually resolves within 24–48 hours.

  • Slight swelling or redness is also possible and should subside quickly.

  • Some patients report a temporary increase in pain before things begin to improve – this is a normal part of the healing response.

Activity Guidelines

To maximise results and minimise irritation:

  • Avoid high-impact or strenuous activity involving the treated area for 48 hours.

  • Gentle movement or stretching is encouraged unless advised otherwise by your practitioner.

  • Continue daily activities as tolerated – shockwave doesn’t require total rest.

Pain Relief and Medications

To allow shockwave therapy to do its job, avoid anti-inflammatory medication:

  • Do not take NSAIDs (e.g., Nurofen, Voltaren, Celebrex) for at least 48 hours after your session – these can interfere with the healing response.

  • If needed, paracetamol (Panadol) can be used to manage discomfort.

Follow-Up Treatments

Shockwave therapy works best over a series of sessions:

  • A course of 3–6 sessions is typically recommended depending on your condition.

  • Your therapist will advise you on timing – usually weekly intervals.

  • Each session builds on the last to promote progressive healing.

When to Contact Us

If you experience any of the following, please get in touch with our clinic:

  • Unusual or prolonged pain that doesn’t settle

  • Signs of infection (fever, warmth, or significant swelling)

  • Any concerns about how your symptoms are progressing

Post PBM (Photobiomodulation) Laser Therapy Guidelines:

What to Expect After Treatment

PBM therapy is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that works by stimulating cellular repair and reducing inflammation. Most patients tolerate it very well, but some normal post-treatment responses can include:

  • Mild warmth, tingling, or sensitivity in the treated area for a few hours

  • A sense of deep relaxation or fatigue shortly after the session

  • Occasional temporary flare-up of symptoms as your body adjusts and begins to heal

These effects are typically short-lived and part of the body’s natural healing response.

Activity Guidelines

PBM therapy doesn’t require downtime, but a few simple precautions will help optimise its effects:

  • Avoid icing the area for at least 24 hours, as this can counteract the therapy’s effects.

  • Stay hydrated — PBM can increase circulation and cellular activity, so drinking water helps flush by-products.

  • You may resume normal daily activities immediately, unless instructed otherwise by your clinician.

Pain Relief and Medications

  • Avoid anti-inflammatory medication (e.g., Nurofen, Voltaren) for at least 48 hours if possible, as inflammation is a necessary part of the healing cascade stimulated by PBM.

  • Paracetamol (Panadol) may be used if you need pain relief.

Treatment Course and Expectations

PBM is most effective when done as a series of treatments:

  • Most conditions require multiple sessions to achieve meaningful results — typically 2–3 times per week initially.

  • Your clinician will recommend a schedule based on your specific condition, goals, and response.

When to Contact Us

PBM is a safe, low-risk treatment, but contact the clinic if:

  • You notice persistent or unusual pain

  • You develop redness or irritation that doesn’t settle

  • You have any concerns about your response or progress

Post Fire Cupping Guidelines:

What to Expect After Treatment

Fire cupping promotes circulation and muscle relaxation but can leave temporary marks and sensations. Common post-treatment effects include:

  • Circular red or purple marks at the cupping sites. These are not bruises, but signs of increased blood flow caused by the suction. In mild cases, they usually fade within 3–7 days. In more severe cases, they may last up to 2 weeks before fully resolving.

  • Mild soreness or tenderness in the treated area, similar to post-massage muscle ache

  • A tight or pulling sensation in the muscles – this is common and happens as the suction gently stretches the skin and fascia. It usually settles within 24–48 hours

  • Warmth, itchiness, or light-headedness immediately after the session is also normal and temporary

Skin and Self-Care Guidelines

To support recovery and avoid irritation:

  • Keep the area warm and covered for 24 hours – avoid exposure to cold, wind, or air-conditioning

  • Do not shower or bathe in cold water for at least 6–8 hours after your session

  • Avoid vigorous scrubbing, exfoliation, or heat packs on the treated area for 48 hours

  • If skin feels sensitive, apply a light moisturiser or aloe vera gel to soothe

Activity Guidelines

  • Avoid strenuous exercise involving the treated area for the rest of the day

  • Drink plenty of water to support circulation and the body’s detox process

  • Resume normal activity the next day unless otherwise advised

When to Contact Us

Cupping is generally very safe, but contact the clinic if:

  • The marks become painful, swollen, or blistered

  • You experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction

  • You feel unusually unwell or have any concerns about your response

Post Sports Massage Guidelines

What to Expect After Treatment

Sports massage targets deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to release tension, improve circulation, and support recovery. It’s normal to experience some post-treatment effects, including:

  • Soreness or tenderness in the treated areas, similar to how you may feel after a strong workout

  • A feeling of heaviness, fatigue, or light-headedness as the body relaxes

  • Mild swelling or sensitivity due to increased circulation and tissue mobilisation

  • In some cases, microscopic tearing of tight or knotted muscle fibres can occur — this is intentional and part of how massage stimulates healing and muscle repair. As with exercise, your body will respond by rebuilding stronger, more resilient tissue

These effects usually settle within 24–72 hours.

Self-Care Guidelines

To support recovery and reduce discomfort:

  • Stay well hydrated – water helps flush out metabolic waste released during massage

  • Apply a warm compress if muscles feel tight or stiff (unless otherwise advised)

  • Avoid intense physical activity for 24 hours if deep pressure was used

  • If needed, you may gently stretch the treated muscles to help restore range of motion

  • Some residual soreness may respond well to light movement, walking, or gentle mobility work

Pain Relief and Medications

  • Avoid anti-inflammatory medication unless advised, as this may interfere with natural tissue healing

  • If discomfort persists, paracetamol may be used to manage symptoms

  • Do not apply ice unless swelling or inflammation is present

When to Contact Us

Massage is generally very safe, but please contact the clinic if:

  • You experience severe pain, bruising, or swelling that doesn’t improve

  • You notice numbness, tingling, or weakness in the treated area

  • You have any concerns about how your body is responding

How Often Should I Have Sports Massage?

The right frequency depends on your activity level, training demands, and recovery goals:

  • For maintenance and injury prevention, we may recommend fortnightly or monthly sessions

  • During periods of heavy training or recovery, more frequent visits may be advised

  • Your therapist will tailor a plan based on your needs

Dry Needling Guidelines

What to Expect After Treatment

Dry needling triggers a twitch response in targeted muscles, stimulating the nervous system to help reduce muscle tightness, tension, and pain. After treatment, it is common to experience:

  • Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS): This may feel similar to the soreness after a heavy workout and usually occurs in the treated muscles.
  • Mild Bruising: Small bruises may appear at the needle insertion sites. These typically resolve within a week.
  • Muscle Soreness & Fatigue: Treated muscles may feel sore or fatigued for up to 24–36 hours post-treatment.
  • Inflammatory Response: Soreness may be due to microtrauma and localized inflammation caused by the needle insertion.

Self-Care Guidelines

To support recovery and reduce post-treatment discomfort:

  • Gentle Movement: Light activities such as walking or stretching help alleviate stiffness.
  • Hydration: Drinking plenty of water aids the body’s healing and recovery process.
  • Heat Therapy: Applying a warm compress or heat pack can help reduce residual inflammation and discomfort.
  • Avoid Strenuous Activity: Rest is recommended to reduce inflammation and prevent aggravation of the treated area.

Pain Relief and Medications

  • Anti-inflammatory Options: Voltaren (oral tablets or topical gel) may help reduce inflammation.
  • Pain Relief: Paracetamol can be used if pain persists, as needed.

When to Contact Us

Please reach out if you experience:

  • Persistent discomfort lasting more than 36 hours
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness that continues for more than 24 hours

How Often Should I Have Sports Massage?

  • Weekly: Recommended for injury management or during periods of intense training (e.g., sports, gym, running).
  • Fortnightly or Monthly: Ideal for ongoing maintenance, muscle tightness, fatigue, or general soreness.

Post Toenail Surgery Guidelines (Ingrown & TNA)

After undergoing nail surgery, your nail bed is in a delicate state due to the effects of chemical ablation. During this recovery period, maintaining excellent personal hygiene is crucial to prevent infection and reduce the risk of fungal infections.

Post surgery pain relief: Once the local anesthetic wears off, it’s normal to feel some discomfort. To help manage the pain, we recommend picking up Maxigesic from your local chemist. Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or consult your pharmacist if you’re unsure.

Key things you MUST DO over the first 3 days, post surgery:

  • Keep the foot that was operated on elevated for the next 3 days.
  • Wear open toe shoes.
  • Return to the clinic for your free check up appointment. Your toe will be redressed in this appointment.
  • Follow the daily rebandaging protocol (video below).

Key things you MUST DO over days 4 to 7, post surgery:

  • Continue wearing open toe shoes.
  • Follow the daily rebandaging protocol (video below).

Key things you MUST DO over days 8 to 14, post surgery:

  • Continue wearing open toe shoes.
  • Follow the daily rebandaging protocol (video below).
  • If you had sutures done during your surgery. You must return to the clinic, or see your local GP, to have the sutures removed.

Key things you MUST DO over weeks 3 to 8, post surgery:

  • You may go back to normal shoes again.
  • Monitor your toenail(s). If you nails haven’t recovered fully, you may need to continue basic rebandaging for another week.
  • Return back to the clinic for PACT treatment if you have done a TNA for fungal infection.

Rebandaging protocol for ingrown toenail(s) and total nail removal(s):

Key details to remember:

The dressing pack is to be stored safely and reused each time you rebandage your toe.

Everything numbered the same, is used together in that rebandaging process.

If you run out of bandages, you can buy the following at your local pharmacy:

Remember if you have any concerns with your recovery you can always call or email us.
We are with you until the end of your recovery.

Fungal Nail Therapy

Essential Steps During Your Fungal Nail Therapy:

If you are undergoing PACT therapy or have had your entire nail removed, following these key steps consistently will help achieve a more successful outcome.

Canesten*: Be consistent with the daily usage, morning and night. The liquid should be placed on all affected toes and surrounding toes.
*Note: If you have had the TNA procedure done. Please wait 4 weeks before commencing Canesten.

Shoe Zapping: Creating a clean environment for your feet to go back into is essential. We do ask patients to bring their shoes each appointment so they can be zapped each time.

We do recommend patients getting their own shoe zapper so they can continue this process daily once they have completed their therapy at the clinic.

Foot & Shoe Hygiene: Maintain proper foot hygiene by washing your feet daily and thoroughly drying them, especially between your toes. If reaching your toenails is difficult, using a hair dryer can be a helpful alternative to ensure your toes are completely dry before putting on socks. Always wear socks with your shoes to protect your feet, and avoid wearing damp shoes or socks.

Weekly Anti-Fungal Bath: Below is a video showcasing the antifungal bath process. This therapy, recommended once a week—ideally before your appointment—offers numerous benefits for combating fungal infections.

The antifungal bath uses agents such as tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar to create an environment that inhibits fungal growth. The warm water softens affected tissue, enhancing the penetration of the solution and making it easier to remove infected debris. Additionally, it promotes blood circulation, boosts the immune response, and helps reduce inflammation while soothing discomfort. With regular use, the antifungal bath cleanses the skin and lowers the risk of reinfection, supporting long-term foot health.

Ingredients:

  • Apple cider vinegar cider
  • Tea tree oil
  • Methylated spirits
  • A large foot bath
  • Measuring cups
  • Foot moisturiser

The formula for the foot soak is 10 drops of tea tree oil, 10 ml of Apple cider and 20ml of methylated spirits, mixed to 1L of water.