Podiatry

Podiatry focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle conditions. Our specialists help people of all ages stay mobile and manage pain with personalized, compassionate care.

Podiatry at TidalHealth focuses on caring for the feet, ankles, and related parts of the lower leg. Our podiatrists help people of all ages, from children with foot differences and athletes with injuries to older adults dealing with arthritis and those managing conditions like diabetes who need specialized foot care.

Common concerns we treat include heel pain such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, nail problems, diabetic foot ulcers, nerve issues, Achilles problems, ankle sprains or fractures, and ongoing foot pain caused by arthritis or the way you walk.

Our care is centered on you and your daily needs. Often, our podiatrists work together with your primary care provider and other specialists, including endocrinologists, vascular experts, orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, wound care nurses, and orthotists, to create a care plan that fits your situation. A typical office visit involves a review of your history, a physical exam, gait and movement assessment, and, if needed, imaging such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI, as well as nerve or blood flow tests.

Treatment options may include activity adjustments, stretching and strengthening programs, custom or off-the-shelf inserts, footwear advice, medications, injections, and wound care. When needed, our team can also provide minor procedures or surgical correction for more complex issues.

TidalHealth’s podiatric care is about helping you stay mobile, prevent disability, manage pain, and support healing, especially if you live with diabetes or circulation problems. If you have foot or ankle pain that does not go away, need to change shoes often, have wounds that do not heal, feel numbness, or notice redness, swelling, or warmth, reaching out for care early can make a real difference.

When should I see a podiatrist?
It is a good idea to see a podiatrist for ongoing foot or ankle pain that lasts more than a few weeks, wounds that do not heal, new numbness or tingling, changes in the shape of your foot, repeated infections, or injuries like severe sprains or possible fractures. People with diabetes should have regular foot exams, even if they do not have symptoms.

What happens at a first podiatry visit?
At your first appointment with TidalHealth, your podiatrist will review your medical history and medications, examine your feet and ankles, assess your walking pattern and shoes, and may order imaging or nerve and blood flow tests. You will receive a personal treatment plan, which could include home care, orthotics, exercises, medications, or referrals to other specialists.

Do podiatrists perform surgery?
Yes, podiatrists at TidalHealth are trained to perform foot and ankle surgery when needed. This can include smaller procedures or more involved reconstructions. Surgery is usually considered when other treatments have not helped or if a condition is unlikely to improve on its own.

Are orthotics useful and how long do they last?
Orthotics, which are custom or ready-made inserts for your shoes, can help with pain, support the way your foot moves, and improve how you get around. Their lifespan depends on materials and how often they are used, but they usually last between 12 and 36 months. Your podiatrist will guide you on what type is best and when to get new ones.

How is diabetic foot care different?
For people with diabetes, foot care at TidalHealth means regular checks and taking care of issues right away to avoid ulcers or infections. This involves inspecting your feet, relieving pressure, treating calluses, managing blood sugar, and working closely with other professionals to support circulation. Early treatment, even for small problems, is important to avoid serious complications.

Will insurance cover podiatry visits and procedures?
Many insurance plans will cover podiatry visits and necessary treatments or procedures, but each plan is different. Some preventive or cosmetic services might not be included. TidalHealth staff can help you check your plan and understand your benefits.

How long is recovery after foot or ankle surgery?
Recovery varies based on your procedure. It often involves a period of less weight on your foot, possibly wearing a boot, pain management, and physical therapy. For minor procedures, recovery could take a few weeks. More complex surgeries may need a few months. Your TidalHealth surgeon will discuss the timeline that fits your needs and health.

When is foot pain urgent?
You should seek care right away for serious injuries or signs of infection like spreading redness, swelling, pus, fever, an inability to put weight on your foot, or wounds that are rapidly getting worse. Getting help early in these situations can lower your risk of complications.