Introducing our new neuropsychology service
Neuropsychology is a new service provided by Riddiford Neurology. Neuropsychologists assess how brain conditions impact behaviour and cognitive functions. Neuropsychologists typically work alongside neurologists to assist in evaluating the functioning of different areas and systems of the brain. The evaluation process includes an interview to gather background and health information, as well as neuro-cognitive testing […]
Introducing our new autonomic function testing service
Autonomic function testing is a new service provided by Riddiford Neurology. Autonomic function testing assesses the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, bladder and sexual function. Unlike peripheral nerves, the autonomic nervous system cannot be directly evaluated. Tests examine the autonomic nervous system’s control over various body […]
Riddiford Neurology has moved!
After ten years at Riddiford Medical Specialists in Newtown, Riddiford Neurology is relocating to new premises on Featherston Street in central Wellington. Riddiford Neurology provides specialist neurology care and a comprehensive neurodiagnostic service. The new location will allow for expanded consultation services, including Neuropsychology and Clinical Psychology consultations, as well as additional diagnostic services such as […]
New private neurology and neurophysiology service for Northland
Riddiford Neurology now offers private consultations and testing closer to home for Northland patients. Starting 31 January 2025, Riddiford Neurology will be offering private neurology consultations and a comprehensive neurophysiology service at the Southern Cross Northland Surgical Centre in Whangārei, including the following tests: More information about the tests, and the services we offer, can […]
Pharmac funds first treatment for primary progressive multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) that affects approximately 1 in 1000 New Zealanders. Women are three times more likely to be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis than men. Most patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis present with one or more attacks (relapses) and are diagnosed with relapsing […]
Emerging field of Autoimmune Neurology
Autoimmune disease happens when the body’s natural defense system cannot tell the difference between your own cells and foreign cells, causing the body to mistakenly attack normal cells. Autoimmune disorders can affect any part of the body including the nervous system. Autoimmune neurology is a rapidly evolving field and our understanding of these disorders has […]
Epilepsy and long haul travel
For patients with epilepsy, international air travel sometimes raises concerns. These concerns centre around the risk of seizure recurrence once they arrive at the destination and how to manage their anti-seizure medication in different time zones. For most patients with epilepsy, seizures occur without warning. This makes predicting when a seizure may occur difficult. However, […]
Introducing our new lumbar puncture service
Lumbar puncture is a new service offered by Riddiford Neurology. A lumbar puncture (or spinal tap) is used to help diagnose certain neurological conditions. A lumbar puncture may be requested to examine cerebrospinal fluid for infection, inflammation, or other neurological disorders. It may also be requested to check the cerebrospinal fluid pressure. A lumbar puncture […]
Advances in acute stroke treatment
Stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either by blockage or, less commonly, by bleeding. Rapid advances in acute ischaemic stroke treatment have moved beyond simple aspirin to include thrombolysis, which dissolves clots, and newer procedures where radiologists physically remove clots using stent retrievers via angiogram. Advanced […]
What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is the result of damage to the nerves that run from the spinal cord (central nervous system) to the rest of the body (peripheral nervous system). Symptoms include numbness, tingling, throbbing, burning and pain. Sometimes patients describe a feeling like they are wearing gloves or socks when they are not. Peripheral neuropathy presents […]