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Podiatry

Patients can now access easier and quicker podiatry services at several of our Local Doctor's clinics and have their foot health needs assessed by our podiatrist and team.

Introducing Our Podiatry Services

Patients can now access easier and quicker podiatry services at several of our Local Doctor's clinics and have their foot health needs assessed by our podiatrist and team.

Our podiatry services are fully funded for a limited number of visits for all enrolled Māori and Pacific Island patients with diabetes and at-risk feet. Additionally, some high-risk patients without diabetes are also covered, including those with peripheral arterial disease, previous amputations, neuropathy, and insensate feet from other causes. Patients holding Community Services Cards (CSC) and those classified as Quintile 5 (Q5) can also have free access.

Podiatrist costs

Our podiatry services are free for enrolled Māori and Pacific Island patients who need management of medium and high-risk feet, including for those holding Community Services Cards (CSC) and/or classified as Quintile 5 (Q5).

  • For casual patients, the services cost $60
  • For enrolled patients holding a CSC card, it will cost $25
  • For enrolled patients who do not hold a CSC, it will cost $35

Podiatry services offered

  • Foot Examinations: Comprehensive assessments of foot health and function.
  • Treatment of Foot Conditions: Addressing issues such as ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, and fungal infections.
  • Diabetic Foot Care: Monitoring and managing foot health for individuals with diabetes to prevent complications.
  • ACC related lower limb injuries: Any accident-related foot injuries

Book an appointment 

To access the services, you do not need a referral, simply walk into one of our clinics and inquire at reception or call us to assist with your booking. Our podiatry services are available at the following 5 Local Doctors locations:

  • Local Doctors Māngere Bridge & Local Doctors Ranui: Monday, 9-4pm
  • Local Doctors Ōtara Mall & Local Doctors Mt Roskill: Tuesday, 9-4pm
  • Local Doctors Browns Rd & Local Doctors Ōtara Mall: Wednesday, 9-4pm
  • Local Doctors Dawson Rd & Local Doctors Glen Innes: Thursday, 9-4pm
  • Local Doctors Dawson Rd & Local Doctors Wai Health: Friday, 9-4pm

To book an appointment, get in touch with our Call Centre at 09 274 7823.

Early detection and proactive management can help prevent serious complications and maintain foot health. Many patients only visit a podiatrist when foot problems become too painful to ignore, so don't wait for it to get worse! If you have any concerns or questions about your foot health, book an appointment and talk to your doctor today.

Preventive Care and Education

Preventing foot complications, especially if you have diabetes or are at risk, means taking good care of your feet. By following these simple steps, you can significantly reduce your chances of foot problems and keep your feet healthy:

  • Maintain Good Blood Sugar Control: Keeping your blood sugar levels within the target range can prevent nerve damage and other diabetes-related complications.
  • Wash and Dry Your Feet Properly: Clean your feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap. Dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent infections.
  • Moisturise Your Feet: Apply lotion to keep your skin soft and prevent cracking, but avoid applying it between your toes.
  • Trim Your Toenails Carefully: Cut your toenails straight across and file the edges to prevent ingrown toenails. If you can't do it safely, seek professional help.
  • Choose Proper Footwear: Wear shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Avoid tight shoes and high heels that can cause pressure points and blisters.
  • Wear Clean, Dry Socks: Choose socks that wick away moisture and change them daily to prevent infections.
  • Avoid Walking Barefoot: Always wear shoes, even indoors, to protect your feet from injuries.
  • Stay Active: Regular exercise improves circulation and overall foot health. Choose low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling.
  • Don't Smoke: Smoking impairs circulation and can exacerbate foot problems. Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and foot health.
  • Manage Your Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on your feet and lowers your risk of complications.

Book today

To book an appointment you can call us now

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Podiatry Questions

  • Diabetic foot refers to a range of complications that can arise in people with diabetes due to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation. These complications can include:

    • Foot ulcers
    • Infections
    • Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) or Gangrene
    • Reduced blood flow to the legs and feet
    • Amputation

  • If you're concerned about being at risk for foot complications, especially if you have diabetes or other conditions affecting foot health, watch out for the following signs:

    • Changes in Skin Color or Temperature: Coolness, redness, or discolouration of the skin on the feet.
    • Daily Feet inspection: Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or any changes in your feet. Use a mirror or ask for help if you have difficulty seeing the bottoms of your feet.
    • Numbness or Tingling: Loss of sensation (neuropathy) in the feet, often described as tingling or numbness.
    • Foot Pain or Cramping: Persistent pain, especially during walking or at rest.
    • Swelling: Persistent swelling, especially if it occurs suddenly and without a clear cause.
    • Sores or Wounds: Slow-healing wounds, ulcers, or cuts on the feet that don't seem to get better.
    • Ingrown Toenails or Corns/Calluses: These can lead to infections if not properly managed.
    • Changes in Foot Shape: Development of deformities such as bunions or hammertoes.
    • Poor Nail Health: Thickened, discoloured, or brittle toenails, which can indicate fungal infections or circulation issues.
    • Dry, Cracked Skin: Especially around the heels or between the toes, which can lead to infections.

  • Podiatrists are healthcare professionals who specialise in diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions related to the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. They are trained to address a wide range of foot and ankle problems, including injuries, deformities, infections, and chronic conditions like diabetes-related foot issues.

    Depending on your injury, they may perform medical assessments, prescribe treatments, and provide foot care and footwear recommendations to improve overall foot health and mobility.

  • Seeing a podiatrist can help prevent serious complications by addressing minor foot and ankle issues before they escalate, ensuring better overall mobility, comfort, and quality of life, particularly for high-risk groups.

    Whether it's a persistent ache, a painful ingrown toenail, or a sudden injury, it is important to address the issue, as they can often interfere with daily activities if left untreated.

    Diabetic foot care is crucial in preventing severe complications such as infections, ulcers, and amputations. Annual diabetic foot screening and risk assessments are recommended for all diabetic patients.