Waterfall Podiatrist
Waterfall Podiatrist
Lauren Brown
Specialist foot and ankle care to keep you moving safely. Conveniently located at the Waterfall City Netcare Hospital.
About Us
Meet Lauren Brown
BTech Podiatry (UJ) | Wound Care Specialist | Sports Medicine Enthusiast
Lauren Brown graduated with a BTech in Podiatry from the University of Johannesburg in 2011 and has practised at Netcare Waterfall City Hospital ever since. She is based at the Waterfall Sports Orthopaedic Centre, where she forms part of a multidisciplinary team led by renowned sports physician Prof Jon Patricios.
A firm believer in lifelong learning and evidence-based care, Lauren completed a holistic wound management course through Eloquent Learning Health in 2012. She continues to expand her clinical skills through ongoing education, collaborative practice, and the use of diagnostic technologies such as digital gait analysis, 3D foot scanning, and pressure plate assessments.
In recognition of her work in diabetic foot and wound care, Lauren was appointed to the Essity Key Opinion Leader (KOL) Board in 2024. Her professional interests include podiatric sports medicine, nail surgery, and diabetic foot complications, and she regularly presents at national conferences and interdisciplinary workshops.
Lauren is a former Gauteng Chair of the South African Podiatry Association, Chair of the Wits Sports Health Running Interest Group, and co-founder of Wounds@Waterfall—a specialist wound care clinic she led until 2018.
Her approach is centred on empowering patients through knowledge, supporting long-term mobility, and providing care that is clinically sound, collaborative, and compassionate.
Our Services
Services We Offer
Podiatry is a registered healthcare profession focused on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and lower limb. At our practice, we offer a range of evidence-based podiatric services, including conservative care, minor procedures, and biomechanical analysis, in accordance with professional standards and clinical best practice.
All services are provided by Lauren Brown (Registered Podiatrist, HPCSA No. CH0004898), with over a decade of experience in both general and specialised foot care.
Skin Pathologies (Dermatological Care)
Assessment and conservative management of conditions including:
- Fungal or bacterial infections
- Plantar warts (verrucae)
- Corns and calluses
- Cracked heels
Biomechanical Assessment
A biomechanical assessment involves:
- Gait biomechanical analysis
- Joint range of motion testing
- Muscle strength assessment
This may assist in identifying factors contributing to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, patellofemoral pain, or Achilles tendinopathy.
Sports and Overuse Injuries
Evaluation and conservative management of lower limb pain and dysfunction related to activity or sport. This includes:
- Biomechanical screening
- Footwear advice and prescription
- Functional support through orthotic intervention
Diabetic Foot Care and Wound Management
We offer preventative and therapeutic care for patients with diabetes, including:
- Neurological and vascular screening
- Footwear and pressure offloading advice
- Monitoring of foot ulcers or high-risk feet and specialised wound management
We work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams when appropriate.
Nail Conditions
We manage a variety of toenail conditions, including:
- Thickened or fungal nails
- Ingrown toenails (including surgical procedures when indicated)
- Nail trauma
Supportive care is available for patients who are unable to manage their nail care independently.
Orthotic Therapy
We provide custom-made orthotic devices when clinically indicated. Orthoses are prescribed following assessment using tools such as:
- Pressure plate analysis
- 3D scanning
- Video gait analysis
Orthoses are designed and manufactured to meet individual patient requirements.
Book Online
Book An Appointment
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right shoe?
The best time to try on shoes is in the late afternoon or evening, when your feet are slightly swollen — this gives you a more accurate fit.
- Measure both feet and always fit shoes to the larger foot.
- Ensure there is about a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
- There should be no bulging of your foot over the side of the shoe.
- Your heel should fit securely with no slipping, and the shoe should feel comfortable immediately — don't rely on "wearing it in."
- A podiatrist can assess your foot shape and gait to help guide the most appropriate shoe for your lifestyle or sport.
How should I cut my toenails?
- Use clean, sharp nail clippers.
- Cut nails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails.
- Avoid cutting into the corners of the nails, rather file the corners round.
- Don't cut them too short — leave a small white edge.
- If you struggle with nail care due to thickened nails, poor vision, or medical conditions, a podiatrist can help.
How do I prevent fungal infections?
- Dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Wear moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes.
- Change socks daily and avoid walking barefoot in communal areas like locker rooms.
- Manage sweaty feet with foot powder.
- Keep toenails trimmed and clean.
- If you suspect a fungal infection, early treatment is advised to prevent spreading.
My child has flat feet — should I be concerned?
Flat feet in young children are often normal and may resolve as they grow. However, if your child experiences:
- Pain or fatigue in the feet or legs
- Poor posture or walking patterns
- Tripping or avoiding activity
…it's best to have them assessed by a podiatrist. Early intervention with exercises or orthotics may help improve comfort and function.
I'm diabetic. How often should I see a podiatrist?
People with diabetes should have a foot check at a MINIMUM once a year, or more frequently if they have any:
- Loss of sensation.
- Changes in circulation or colour of foot or toes.
- History of ulcers or foot infections
Regular podiatric care can help detect problems early and prevent complications.
What is a custom orthotic, and do I need one?
Orthotics are medical devices worn inside shoes to support and improve foot function. Custom orthotics are made to suit your individual needs, based on a biomechanical assessment. They can help with:
- Heel or arch pain
- Sports injuries
- Diabetic foot pressure offloading
- Postural alignment
A podiatrist will advise you if orthotics are appropriate after a full assessment.
Is foot pain normal with age?
While foot discomfort is more common as we age, persistent or limiting pain is not normal and should be evaluated. Causes may include arthritis, poor footwear, gait issues, or circulation problems. Early assessment can often prevent more serious issues.
Can a podiatrist help with knee or hip pain?
Yes — foot mechanics can affect the knees, hips, and lower back. A biomechanical assessment may reveal misalignments or load distribution issues contributing to pain further up the kinetic chain. Podiatric intervention such as orthotics or footwear adjustments can help reduce strain.
Do you accept medical aid?
No — We do not contract directly into medical aid. However, we do provide a detailed invoice for you to submit to you medical aid at your convenience.
Contact Us
Find Out More
Reach out to our friendly receptionist, Lerato Milar, for more support.
