In this advertising feature we meet local experts dedicated to prioritising their clients’ health and wellbeing.

Staying healthy and looking after your wellbeing looks different to everyone. 

It might be through getting extra support with a physical or mental condition or attending a fitness class once a week. 

In this advertising feature we meet local experts dedicated to prioritising their clients’ health and wellbeing.

Putting the right foot forward in podiatry

The podiatry team at The Walking Clinic specialises in issues with lower limbs, including the hips, knees and feet, says podiatrist Ricky Lee.

“This can be conditions from a running injury, like plantar fasciitis or achilles tendinopathy, to conducting walking assessments and making custom-prescription orthotics,” he says. 

“We can also manage ingrown toenails and nail concerns as well as the assessment of diabetic foot care and concerns.”

Ricky says movement is vital to a healthy life. 

“We see patients daily who are struggling to keep walking or running due to pain or issues with their feet or lower legs,” he says. 

“Our team helps people get back on their feet and manage their pain so that they can go back to exercising and doing what they love.” 

Early intervention to manage leg/foot conditions or concerns is key, with Ricky saying it’s great to see a patient before they even have a foot concern. 

“Our favourite saying is, ‘prevention is better than any cure’,” he says. 

Ricky says they enjoy nothing more than seeing a client come into the clinic to let their podiatrists know they are meeting their goals and are back to enjoying life. 

The Walking Clinic is located in Lyneham, Woden, Belconnen, Garran and Manuka. See walkingclinic.com.au

Specialist centre puts Canberrans at its heart

The ACT Specialist Centre in Deakin was established in 2024 and continues to grow with the addition of more specialists. 

“We have haematologists, oncologists, maxillofacial surgeons, adult psychiatrists, pain specialists, rehabilitation specialists, neurosurgeons, gynaecologists, general surgeons and a growing team of specialists,” says child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr Deepa Singhal.

“We also have a team of allied health exercise physiotherapists, adult neuropsychologists, psychologists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists to support our multidisciplinary team.” 

“There’s no need for interstate travel,” she says. 

“We pride ourselves in [the] provision of personalised medical service, whilst maintaining a holistic, caring and compassionate focus in patient care.”

According to Dr Deepa, their overarching philosophy is to develop a sustainable self-management strategy for managing complex issues. 

“We aim to provide quality, evidence-based care in the ACT and surrounding areas including Riverina and the south coast of NSW,” she says. 

Dr Deepa practices at  the Canberra Child Psychiatry Centre, within the ACT Specialist Centre, which provides comprehensive child psychiatry and transition services.

She has a deep interest in neurodevelopmental psychiatry and working with children with complex mental health issues, such as ADHD, ASD and Tourette syndrome.

Canberra Child Psychiatry Centre and ACT Specialist Centre have been established by the team at the ACT Pain Centre.

ACT Specialist Centre. 37-39 Geils Court, Deakin. Call 6195 0180 or visit actspecialistcentre.com.au or canberrachildpsychiatry.com.au

Creating clear vision since 1988

Combining a love of science and a passion for helping people in a meaningful way, Canberra Vision Care optometrist, Peter Dodds, has been serving the Canberra community since 1988. 

“Early detection of vision problems in both children and adults assists in providing the best outcomes for clear and comfortable vision,” says Peter. 

“Good vision and healthy eyes are essential for us to function well in our daily lives [and] it is very rewarding to see the joy that people express when they first put on their new spectacles and enjoy clear comfortable vision.”

According to Peter, a common misconception about optometry is that wearing glasses might cause eyesight problems or create lazy eyes over time. 

In reality, he says properly prescribed glasses correct vision and alleviate strain, which can prevent eye fatigue and potential worsening of vision due to untreated vision issues. 

“I take care and pride in ensuring that prescriptions are accurate to support optimal eye health and comfort,” he says. 

In his 37 years of optometry, Peter has seen the incorporation of advanced technology into their everyday practices. 

“Innovations, such as digital retinal imaging, visual field testing and electronic refraction systems have significantly enhanced diagnostic precision, visual field testing and electronic refraction systems have significantly enhanced diagnostic precision and treatment efficacy,” says Peter. 

“These advancements have transformed optometry into the primary eye care profession able to diagnose and treat a broad range of eye health and optical problems.”

Canberra Vision Care. Erindale Shopping Centre, Shop 16A/68 Comrie Street, Wanniassa. Call 6296 3540 or canberravisioncare.com.au

Dentists with an eye for modern technology

Tailoring treatment plans to address individual needs, My Dentist Canberra owner Afra Yazdan says patient care is at the heart of everything the practice does. 

“From the moment you walk through our doors, our team is dedicated to making you feel welcome, comfortable and fully informed about your dental health and treatment options,” she says.

“We believe that building trust and maintaining open communication with our patients is essential for delivering the highest standard of care.” 

Airflow technology is incorporated as a core part of their dental cleaning services.

“Airflow eliminates the need for traditional scraping instruments, making cleanings more comfortable, especially for patients with sensitive teeth or dental restorations,” she says.

“This innovative system uses a gentle combination of warm water, fine powder and compressed air to effectively remove plaque, biofilm and surface stains from teeth.” 

Offering a comprehensive range of treatments, including preventive care, restorative dentistry, cosmetic procedures and thorough dental cleanings, Afra says each service is delivered with meticulous attention to detail and a focus on long-term oral health. 

My Dentist Canberra. 36/21 Thynne Street, Bruce. Call 6225 2855 or visit mydentistcanberra.com.au

Championing health through nature and art

Founder of one of Australia’s natural history art schools, Julia Landford, says immersion into the environment has some of the best health benefits.

“From wellbeing, mindfulness and creative expression, our classes nurture, nourish, inspire and relax students,” she says. 

“Those are the ingredients of joy.”

Established in 2017, NatureArt Lab is a purpose-led arts and environmental education business that, says Julie, has made a significant difference to people’s lives.

“We are contributing to environmental sustainability, building communities and championing health through our connections with nature and creativity,” she says. 

With classes ranging from wildlife photography to watercolour paintings inspired by nature, Julia says they are actively combating feelings of loneliness, chronic stress and anxiety. 

“As a dedicated environmental educator, I connect with other environmental professors to combine art, science and nature to make a real difference to people’s lives,” she says. 

“With more technology usage, comes increased feelings of isolation and anxiety, we are reducing this by getting people active and empowering our students with purpose.”

NatureArt Lab, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith. Call 0414 342839, or visit natureartlab.com.au

Finding the right shoe for the run

With benefits including lowered cholesterol, lowered blood pressure, improved circulation and weight loss, The Runners Shop owner, Nick Walshe, says the health benefits associated with running are significant.

“The mental health benefits are perhaps more surprising for people taking up running for the first time,” says Nick. 

“Through running, we can reduce our levels of stress and anxiety, which in turn leads to improved sleep and an improved overall sense of wellbeing.”

According to Nick, having a well-cushioned pair of running shoes is essential for helping with shock absorption. 

“When we run, a force roughly equivalent to four times our body weight impacts our feet, arches, knees and lower back,” he says. 

“Running shoes are also designed to flex in a way that works to help with the runner’s repetitive gait-cycle motion.

“After shoes, most runners would agree that the next most important item of equipment is a good pair of running socks.”

Made from fibres designed to breathe, fit snugly and provide comfort, Nick says running socks have been specifically designed to reduce the risk of blisters from sweating and friction. 

“At The Runners Shop, we love hearing the stories of people’s enjoyment of and love for running,” he says. 

“Finding a suitable, comfortable pair of shoes is where the team gets to be involved in your running story!”

The Runners Shop, 76 Dundas Court, Phillip. Call 6285 3508, or visit therunnersshop.com.au

Dr Vass offers life-changing hearing help

Getting help with hearing loss is all about improving communication and gaining clarity, says hearing clinic principal Dr William Vass.

Offering professional, independent advice and treatment, Dr Vass says taking the first step with a hearing test can be life-changing.

“We know hearing loss can be linked to anxiety, isolation, anger, relationship issues, work issues and miscommunication in general,” he says.

“After treatment or rehabilitation patients can find it a lot easier to get along with people, don’t have to guess so much and are much more confident in their communication skills, especially with their partner.”

While hearing loss can come with ageing, Dr Vass says it can also often affect young people, too.

“Those exposed to loud noises in military and construction fields can experience hearing loss. Some people might be genetically exposed to hearing loss or there could be viral infections,” he says.

“It’s very important to act early. Waiting too long can start to see a disconnect between the brain and the ear.

“We find that those people who put off getting help with their hearing loss for long periods don’t have as successful outcomes as those who seek help earlier.”

Dr Vass says patients have the certainty that they’ll be seeing him when they visit the Dr Vass Hearing Clinic and that he will provide one-on-one, tailored care and advice.

“It’s rewarding to help people not be so isolated, and help improve their communication with others, especially their loved ones,” he says.

Dr Vass Hearing Clinic, suite 14, John James Medical Centre, 175 Strickland Crescent, Deakin. Visit drvasshearing.com.au or call 6282 2717.

Supporting Canberrans to age well

Council on the Ageing ACT (COTA ACT) is here to support people to age well, stay informed, and remain connected as they grow older, says CEO Jenny Mobbs.  

“Whether you’re planning ahead or facing changes now, we offer trusted information, support and programs tailored to older Canberrans.”

Jenny says COTA staff and activities can be found not only at their office in Hughes, but also regularly in the community, such as the ACT libraries. 

“Our friendly staff attend selected libraries across Canberra to offer free, face-to-face support and answer your questions about ageing, housing options, accessing help at home, ACT Seniors Cards, active ageing – and more,” she says. 

“No question is too big or too small, and we’re here to help if you’re unsure where to start.

“Wherever you are on your ageing journey, we can help you stay informed, connected and confident.”

Jenny says reaching out for information and support is easy, by attending one of their outreach sessions at a local ACT library or by calling. 

“Come find out how we can support you to age well,” she says.

COTA ACT. Hughes Community Centre, 2 Wisdom Street. Call 6282 3777 or visit cotaact.org.au

Pain service with a difference

Those living with chronic pain or a disability shouldn’t find themselves stuck without access to reliable help, says Arthritis ACT CEO Rebecca Davey. 

Providing support and helping people access services such as the NDIS, Rebecca says it’s a rewarding experience to know that the work they do helps people in their day-to-day lives. 

“These kinds of services make such a big difference in people’s lives, and help open up doors,” she says.

“We want to provide them with the support they need so they can participate fully in the community. ”

An allied health practice with a difference, Rebecca says they have physios, exercise physiologists and occupational therapists available, as well as a team of peer workers, many of whom have lived experience of the conditions they support others with. 

“Arthritis ACT offers ongoing programs for people who need any type of support with their chronic pain or debilitating fatigue conditions,” she says. 

Ahead of the upcoming National Pain Week, July 22 to July 28, Rebecca says they will be hosting a selection of free seminars that will be open for the community. 

Arthritis ACT, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041, or visit arthritisact.org.au

Denture professionals at the cutting edge

Fringe Dentures is a direct-to-the-public denture clinic that makes and fits dentures and mouthguards, and also other services such as repairs, and realigning.

“We’re embracing new technology to make sure we get the best service and quality of work, and a better customer experience,” says owner Terry McHugh.

“We’ve transitioned to digital denture and mouthguard manufacturing, which has revolutionised our processes. 

“We were doing high-quality work before, and we’re doing even higher-quality work now because of the new technology that we’re using.”

Terry says that the business has expanded to include another clinic in Hawker, as well as regional centres in Jindabyne, Gundagai and Young.

“We’re still servicing the industry, including many partner dentists,” says Terry.

He says services can be claimed through health funds and they accept DVA cards.

“The most important thing, and the most enjoyable thing, is seeing happy customers walking out with their new dentures,” he says. 

“If you’re happy, we’re happy.”

Fringe Dentures, 3/24 Iron Knob Street, Fyshwick. Call 6239 2534 or visit fringedentures.com.au