Q: Where can I park?

We recommend local authority car parks: Bystock Terrace (3–4 minutes’ walk) Guildhall (7–10 minutes’ walk) John Lewis / King William Street (8–10 minutes’ walk) Private parking operators use strict ANPR enforcement. Please check signage carefully.

Question 1

Where is Northernhay Clinic located?

Accepted Answer

We are based at 39 Northernhay Street, Exeter, EX4 3ER.

For enquiries or appointment assistance, please contact us on 01392 259101

The clinic is a short walk from Northernhay Gardens and close to both Exeter train stations.

Train stations:

Exeter Central – approximately 2-3 minutes’ walk
Exeter St David’s – approximately 15 minutes’ walk or a short taxi ride

Question 2

Do I need a GP referral?

Accepted Answer

No referral is needed. You can book directly with us. While we often receive referrals from GPs, Consultants, Physiotherapists and Coaches, a referral is not required.

Question 3

What should I bring to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

If possible, please bring:

Everyday footwear, plus any sports or work-specific shoes
Any existing orthoses or insoles
A list of current medications
Shorts or suitable clothing for gait and lower limb assessment
Any recent imaging reports (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound) if available

More specific preparation details are provided in your confirmation email.

Question 4

Where can I park?

Accepted Answer

We recommend local authority car parks:

Private parking operators use strict ANPR enforcement. Please check signage carefully.

Question 5

Is there on-street parking?

Accepted Answer

Limited permit parking is available around Northernhay Street but is not guaranteed.

Bicycle storage:
You may secure your bicycle outside the clinic using your own lock.

Question 6

How long is an Initial Consultation?

Accepted Answer

Typically 45–60 minutes, depending on your clinical needs.

Question 7

Do you offer video consultations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, where clinically appropriate for advice, assessment or follow-up.

Question 8

What does a Biomechanical Assessment include?

Accepted Answer

Lower limb and functional assessment
Computer Gait analysis (performed when indicated)
Footwear evaluation
Diagnosis and explanation
Personalised treatment plan
Digital resources and onward referrals where appropriate

Question 9

What makes your Custom Foot Orthoses different?

Accepted Answer

All of our Custom Foot Orthoses are:

100% custom, created from high resolution TechMed3D scans
3D-printed in PA12 nylon, a robust prosthetic-grade material
Precisely engineered for comfort, efficiency and long-term support
Slim, durable and compatible with a wide range of footwear
Informed by 30 years of specialist prescribing experience

Question 10

Do Foot Orthoses work straight away?

Accepted Answer

Some patients notice improvement quickly, while others require a short adaptation period. Responses vary depending on condition, foot type, footwear and activity level. Individual prognosis and expected outcomes are discussed directly with each patient.

Question 11

What footwear works best with Foot Orthoses?

Accepted Answer

This will vary depending on your foot type and we give advice on this on an individual basis. Most structured trainers, boots and many smart shoes work well for the majority of people. However, not all existing footwear will be suitable, as some designs cannot accommodate the structure or function of medical-grade orthotic devices.

Tailored, individual footwear advice is provided at your consultation and within your post-consultation pack.

Question 12

Is Shockwave Therapy painful?

Accepted Answer

A degree of mild discomfort during treatment is normal and expected for effectiveness. This generally settles quickly once treatment stops. Most patients tolerate Shockwave Therapy well, and settings are adjusted to your comfort level.

Following treatment, intermittent mild discomfort over the next 24–48 hours is common and generally indicates tissue stimulation and therapeutic response. However everybody responds slightly differently and this must be taken into account.

Question 13

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

Many patients generally require 3–6 sessions, but the number varies depending on your condition, it's severity and your individual tissue response. Your likely treatment plan and expected session count will be advised at your assessment and during treatment.

Question 14

Do I need a follow-up appointment?

Accepted Answer

Follow-ups are often recommended for orthotic therapy, structured treatments and complex clinical presentations. Your clinician will advise what is appropriate.

Question 15

Can I contact the clinic after my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Patients may contact us for clarification or further advice. Additional clinical assessment requires a booked appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Parking & Travel

Appointments

Custom Foot Orthoses

Shockwave Therapy

Aftercare & Follow-Up

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Phone: 01392 259 101

info@northernhayclinic.com

39 Northernhay St, Exeter EX4 3ER