RE: ‘Feet healing fraternity bound in red tape' (Thee Weekend Sun, February 20).
I read this article by Hunter Wells with a certain amount of cynicism, having had unfortunate experiences with three podiatrists.

In 2011 I injured my foot; the damage seemed minor but the resultant limp began to affect my back. My GP referred me to a podiatrist, who ignored written clinical information and made an orthotic which dramatically worsened the original problems, and strained my knees and hips.

I designed a home-made insole which made life bearable, but wore out quickly. By then it was clear the problem wouldn't go away by itself.

My GP sent me for X-ray and ultrasound scans, then to an orthopaedic surgeon, who popped me off to a second podiatrist. This time the specialist's suggestions and background information were both discounted

After two days of agony I ditched the orthotics (note: now plural) and reverted to my own design, which has to be replaced weekly.

I eventually went for a second orthopaedic surgeon's examination with an MRI scan which defined the exact site of damage and cause of pain. The alternatives were spelled out: drastic surgery with no guarantees, or management with - an orthotic.

Armed with a clear written prescription from the surgeon, for a single orthotic, I was booked with a third podiatrist. Three visits later I had orthotics for both feet.

After three weeks the agony in both feet was such that the renewal of pain from knees, hips, and back seemed almost trivial. Re-reading the surgeon's prescription made it clear that his expertise had been rejected in favour of the podiatrist's predetermined solution, costing many hundreds of dollars. Again I ditched the ‘professional' orthotics and resumed making my own.

Stefan Edwards may be more competent than others of his profession, but my experience shows how important it is to have proper scrutiny over their judgement.
I'm very glad they were unable to reach for chemicals. In a world already over-drenched with antibiotics, keep the podiatric prescription regime as it is, please.

Robert Lawrence, Hairini.