Podiatric Care for Sports and Fitness in Auckland
Sports podiatry
As podiatrists we are passionate about sports. Treating athletic patients is often the most satisfying part of podiatric practice. We use a patient – centered approach when it comes to evaluating and treating sporting injuries, with consideration for individual patient expectations, concerns and an understanding of the nature of their activity. We are exerts in podiatric biomechanics, footwear technology, foot orthotic therapy and functional rehabilitation protocols.
Conditions we treat include:
What is a biomechanical consultation?
Biomechanical treatment is the term used for any musculoskeletal injury. If you are booked in for a biomechanical appointment, we will undertake a thorough biomechanical examination that may involve the palpation of soft tissues and bony structures, range-of-motion testing of your joints and musculature, muscle strength testing, evaluating your foot posture index, gait analysis on treadmill or hard ground, footwear assessment, photographic documentation of any areas of interest, and more.
We may advise the following multi factorial approach to manage your condition; stretching exercises, manual therapy (massage), orthotics, splints and braces, referrals for surgery or corticosteroid injections.
Your podiatrist will inform you if any further imaging studies are required, such as x-ray or ultrasound, and if these are necessary, write the appropriate referral. If you are coming in for a biomechanical assessment, please bring in a couple of shoes that you wear regularly so we can assess them. Please also bring some shorts.
From here, you podiatrist will explain your diagnosis – the what, how and why – and answer any questions you may have. Following this, you will discuss treatment options and most importantly, what is going to get you the best results in the best time frame. If time allows, we may be able to begin your chosen treatment immediately.
Splints and braces
We may recommend a splint or brace as a part of your treatment plan. Splints and braces are used to treat and rehabilitate muscular and sports injuries, as well as a variety of conditions that affect the foot, ankle and knee. The purpose of braces and splints is to improve physical function, slow disease progression and diminish pain.
In the case of a sprain, these expertly fitted devices, keep the foot in place. Once your podiatrist has an accurate diagnosis, they will discuss a complete rehabilitation program with you. Close follow-up after bracing or splinting is essential to ensure proper fit and use.
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