FAQs

What is a Podiatrist?

Podiatrists are highly trained health professionals who specialise in foot care and lower limb conditions. Podiatrists treat people of all ages, from young children, to athletes to elderly.

Many people with chronic health conditions such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis are encouraged to seek help from a podiatrist on a regular basis. In addition, many sports people are treated by Podiatrists, who specialise in biomechanics of the lower limb.

In New Zealand, anyone practicing podiatry must be registered with the New Zealand Podiatrists Board and have a current Annual Practicing Certificate.


Who should see a podiatrist?

 

Anyone with a lower limb complaint, whether it is a new injury or long standing, should see a podiatrist. Leg, hip, knee and foot pain are not all we treat, we can also help with nail and skin issues including in grown toe nails, corns and verrucas.


What are orthotics?

Foot orthoses (orthotics) are custom made and adjusted therapeutic devices. They improve your health by properly supporting and stimulating the sole of your foot. Custom foot orthotics are prescribed to specifically suit your individual problem, foot, activity and type of footwear. Accurately prescribed and adjusted foot orthotics are comfortable and very effective in relieving problems and preventing future ones. Foot orthoses should only be prescribed by a fully qualified Podiatrist.


Can you help with ingrown toenails and problem toes?

Yes in many cases we will see you and perform the procedure to correct the toenail right then and there.


Is PodiatryMed ACC registered?

PodiatryMed is ACC approved. Bruce Baxter is a Sports Academy approved provider and President of Podiatry New Zealand.


How many visits will I need?

Your individual treatment plan may only require between two to four visits. We believe in educating you to be able to self manage and will provide you with tools e.g. foot orthoses, exercises to achieve this. We may develop a treatment plan that involves referring you to other specialists, doctors, physiotherapists, massage therapists or chiropractors.


Do I need a referral?

No. You can simply call us to make an appointment, although your GP can also refer you. If a health provider does refer you, please remember to bring your referral letter to your appointment.


Will you tell me to wear sensible shoes all the time?

Not always, we work with our patients and factor their individual lifestyle into our treatment plan. It may be that we encourage you to wear sensible shoes for part of the day but we understand everyone’s requirements are different.

My child has an unusual walking/running pattern, should I take them to a Podiatrist?

Yes, we see a lot of children at our practice and can come up with a treatment plan to suit. It may be that a simple soft orthotic is all that is needed.

What should I bring with me to my appointment?

For your first appointment please bring exercise gear, your current orthotics (if relevant) and a selection of your shoes including work, casual and sport. You will be advised what to bring next time at your initial consultation.

How long will my orthotics last for?

The type of orthotic we use most commonly in our clinic is a formthotic rather than the hard plastic types. Formthotics are made from a unique type of foam which is thermoformable, this means we can heat mould the orthotic to you foot shape increasing proprioception, comfort and control. Formthotics should last you a year, if not longer, this does however depend on frequency of use, type of activity and injury. In some cases hard based plastic insoles made from a mould of your feet are required; these can last up to four years.