Q & A: Feet Matters
Q: What do podiatrists do?
Podiatrists are trained to assess, diagnose and manage a wide range of lower leg and foot conditions, and to provide advice on prevention and care. On a typical day, a podiatrist may treat ingrown toenails, fungal infections and sports injuries such as heel and arch pain. They also provide footwear advice, see children with foot injuries, and offer general guidance on foot health and hygiene.
Q: What changes are coming for the podiatry profession?
Podiatrists in New Zealand were granted prescribing rights for certain medicines in 2025. This is the most significant development in the profession in recent years. It will improve patients’ journeys through the health system by allowing faster access to medicines and making care more affordable overall.
Q: How is foot health related to our overall general health?
Foot health plays an important role in overall wellbeing. Around 20 percent of the population experience ongoing heel or foot pain, which can be debilitating and reduce enjoyment of everyday activities such as walking. Foot pain is also associated with increased anxiety, frustration and depression. In people older than 65, it is linked to a higher risk of falls. Foot symptoms can also provide early signs of other health conditions. Tingling or burning sensations may indicate diabetes, while ankle swelling can signal changes in blood vessels or the development of vascular disease.
Q: How can I prevent my ingrown toenails?
Ingrown toenails are commonly caused by how nails are cut. Standard nail clippers can leave a sharp edge or spike that digs into the skin and leads to infection. Using specialised nail nippers helps create a cleaner cut and reduces this risk. If you regularly experience ingrown toenails or ongoing discomfort, seek professional advice, as treatment is often straightforward.
Q: Why are socks important for foot health?
Socks are often overlooked but play a key role in maintaining foot health. Modern socks are designed with advanced materials that support treatment and prevention, especially for people with blisters or excessive sweating. Technical socks use a process called wicking, which draws moisture away from the skin and into the fabric. This helps reduce friction, minimise blistering and manage sweat. Choosing the right socks is particularly important for people prone to sweaty or odorous feet.
Q: What are your three top foot tips?
First, check your feet daily, including between the toes and around the heels. This helps identify cracks or changes early, reducing the risk of infection. Second, keep feet thoroughly dry. If drying with a towel is difficult, a hairdryer can be effective. Third, ensure shoes fit properly. A good guideline is to allow about a centimetre between the longest toe and the end of the shoe, as poorly fitting footwear is a common cause of foot problems.
Q: Why are my feet cold all the time, especially in winter?
Cold feet can result from simple environmental factors or indicate an underlying issue. It is important to keep feet at a consistent temperature rather than moving quickly from very cold to very hot conditions, as this can increase the risk of chilblains. If cold feet are persistent and accompanied by symptoms such as toes turning white or experiencing pins and needles, consult a podiatrist or GP.
Q: Why are my 18-month-old child’s legs turning inwards?
Inward turning of the legs is a common concern in young children and is often linked to how bones are rotated at the hip, knee or ankle. At birth, legs are typically rotated inwards and gradually turn out over the first six to eight years of life. Appropriate footwear and support can significantly reduce tripping and improve stability.
Q: Which is better for foot health: jandals or Crocs?
Both jandals and Crocs can be worn safely in moderation. The key considerations are how long they are worn and what activities are carried out in them. These types of footwear can contribute to skin irritation, blistering and discomfort, although newer designs offer improved support and cushioning.
Q: My partner has smelly feet. What can we do about it?
Foot odour is caused by bacteria. Washing feet with antibacterial soap twice daily is important, along with cleaning socks thoroughly. Because odour is often linked to sweating, changing socks several times a day can help control moisture and reduce smell.
Q: I have seen reflexology on social media. How does it work?
Reflexology is considered a complementary therapy. While there is limited scientific evidence for treating foot conditions, many people report improved comfort and reduced stress after sessions. For ongoing pain or conditions, consult a podiatrist for evidence-based care.
Q: What should I look for in a running shoe?
A good running shoe should provide firm support, particularly at the heel, and should not bend easily through the middle. Proper fit is essential, with about a thumb’s width of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe.
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