Patient FAQs

Surgery & Procedures

When is surgery typically recommended for foot and ankle conditions?
Surgery is usually considered after conservative treatments—such as physical therapy, custom orthotics, bracing, or injections—have failed to provide adequate relief. If your foot or ankle pain interferes with your daily activities, mobility, or quality of life, a surgical consultation can help determine if a structural correction is necessary.
What are the most common surgical procedures performed at your clinic?
Our specialists frequently perform a range of procedures, including:
  • Bunionectomies: Realignment of the toe joint. Learn more →
  • Hammertoe Correction: Straightening of the smaller toes.
  • Plantar Fascia Release: For chronic severe heel pain. Learn more →
  • Ankle Stabilization: Repairing torn ligaments after chronic sprains. Learn more →
  • Fracture Repair: Using hardware to ensure bones heal correctly after an injury.
Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight after my surgery?
Most foot and ankle surgeries are performed as outpatient procedures, meaning you can usually return home the same day. However, more complex reconstructive surgeries or total ankle replacements may require a brief hospital stay for monitoring and pain management.
How long is recovery after foot surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the procedure. Minor procedures (like ingrown toenail removal) may have 1-2 week recovery. Bunion surgery typically requires 6-8 weeks for normal activities. Your surgeon will provide specific guidance based on your procedure.

Common Conditions

What causes toe pain and how can it be treated?
Toe pain can be caused by ingrown toenails, bunions, hammertoes, arthritis, or injuries. Treatment options may include conservative care (padding, proper footwear), orthotics, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. Ingrown toenail treatment →
How do I know if I have a stress fracture in my foot?
Symptoms of a stress fracture include pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, swelling, tenderness to touch, and sometimes bruising. If you suspect a stress fracture, seek medical attention promptly. Diagnosis typically requires X-rays or MRI. Sports injury care →
What is plantar fasciitis and how can it be treated?
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot. Classic symptoms include sharp heel pain with first steps in the morning. Treatment includes stretching, orthotics, night splints, physical therapy, and sometimes injections or surgery. Heel pain treatment →
Can I treat my ingrown toenail at home?
While mild cases may respond to warm soaks and proper nail trimming, it's generally recommended to seek professional care to prevent infection and promote proper healing. This is especially important for diabetics. Professional removal →
What causes ankle pain and how can it be treated?
Ankle pain can result from sprains, strains, fractures, arthritis, or tendonitis. Treatment depends on the cause and may include RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), physical therapy, bracing, or surgery for severe cases. Ankle injury treatment →
What is a bunion and how can it be treated?
A bunion is a bony bump forming on the joint at the base of your big toe. Conservative treatments include wider shoes, padding, and orthotics. Surgery is the only way to permanently correct the deformity. Bunion surgery options →
Can I treat my heel pain at home?
Mild heel pain may improve with rest, ice, stretching, and over-the-counter arch supports. However, persistent pain (more than 2 weeks) should be evaluated by a professional to prevent chronic problems. Heel pain treatment →

Diabetic Foot Care

How often should diabetics see a podiatrist?
Diabetics should have a comprehensive foot exam at least annually. High-risk patients (those with neuropathy, poor circulation, or previous ulcers) should be seen every 2-3 months. Medicare covers annual diabetic foot exams. Diabetic foot care →
What foot problems are diabetics at risk for?
Diabetics are at higher risk for neuropathy (nerve damage), poor circulation, foot ulcers, infections, and Charcot foot. Daily foot inspections and regular professional care are essential for prevention.
Does Medicare cover diabetic shoes?
Yes! Medicare Part B covers one pair of therapeutic shoes and three pairs of inserts per year for qualifying diabetic patients. We can help you determine if you qualify. Learn more →

General Questions

How can I prevent foot and ankle injuries?
Prevention tips include: wearing proper fitting shoes, stretching regularly (especially before exercise), avoiding overexertion, maintaining a healthy weight, and addressing minor problems before they become serious.
What is the difference between a podiatrist and an orthopedic specialist?
A podiatrist (DPM) specializes exclusively in foot and ankle care, with focused training in this area. An orthopedic specialist (MD/DO) treats the entire musculoskeletal system. Both can treat foot and ankle conditions, but podiatrists have more specialized focus.
Do you accept walk-ins?
Yes! We welcome walk-ins for urgent concerns like ingrown toenails, acute injuries, and severe pain. Same-day appointments are often available. Call ahead when possible: (940) 382-8801
What insurance do you accept?
We accept most major insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance. Call our office to verify your specific plan: (940) 382-8801

Still Have Questions?

Our team is here to help. Call us and we'll answer your questions about treatments, insurance, or scheduling.

Call (940) 382-8801