A good podiatrist will help you. But you don't mention your location. That would help. In case of Bangkok I use this clinic;
https://www.footcare.co.th/
No I don't think luck was part of it. I had to do exactly what the DLT website states for licences expired 3+ years.
Perhaps it was you that was unlucky.
I did exactly what he needs to do in September last year. Old 5 year licence was 4 years expired. Did the theory and practical tests. 5 year licence in my pocket.