05/15/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
Foot Swelling Usually Not a Foot Problem: WA Podiatrist
“Most of the time, foot swelling is actually not a foot problem,” says Tek Fish, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist at Clover Podiatry. “It’s often something else causing the feet to swell.” Some of the potential causes he mentions are issues with the veins, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, kidney issues, and infections.
 |
Dr. Tek Fish |
However, even a small cut or blister can become infected and cause your feet or ankles to swell. “That usually comes with redness, warmth, and often a wound,” says Dr. Fish. “That's a medical emergency situation, not a ‘wait and see."
Source: Marisa Cohen, Prevention [5/11/26]
05/13/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
MN Podiatrist Closing Luxury Footwear Brand After 10 Years
After a decade of designing fashion-forward footwear with a podiatrist’s precision, luxury shoe brand Marion Parke is ceasing operations. Founder Marion Parke, DPM announced the closure this week, calling the decision a “bittersweet moment” after ten years in business.
 |
Dr. Marion Parke |
“Founding and running this brand has been a dream marked by incredible friendships, partnerships and countless beautiful shoes worn by incredible women,” Dr. Parke said in a statement. “I’m so proud of my team and of the many collaborators that supported us over the past ten years. I’m also truly humbled that so many women trusted us and welcomed the brand into their wardrobes. It’s a bittersweet moment, and also time to turn the page.”
Source: Madeline Nachbar, Mpls St Paul Magazine [5/11/26]
05/12/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS - PART 2
OH Podiatrist Discusses Flat Feet
Most people don’t spend too much time thinking about the arch of their foot — how high it is, how low it is — that is, until foot or ankle pain becomes a problem. “When you’re born, you have flat feet,” said Nicole Nicolosi, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic, adding that children tend to develop an arch between the ages of 7 and 10. “You can have a flat foot and live a long and happy life without any issues,” Dr. Nicolosi explained.
 |
Dr. Nicole Nicolosi |
That said, certain issues can be signs of health problems in folks with flat feet. “Because of your flat foot, it kind of alters your mechanics — the way you walk — so you’re more prone to arthritis, for example, in your knees and your hips,” she said. So, the pain may not be limited to your foot and ankle. “Everywhere down the line, everything’s connected,” Dr. Nicolosi said. “Orthotics are pretty mainstay for flat feet because they have an arch support,” said Nicolosi, which helps alleviate the tendon that supports your arch and helps put your foot in the correct alignment so you don’t end up with arthritis or gait abnormalities.
Source: Jillian Wilson, Life [5/8/26]
05/12/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS - PART 1
Compression Socks the Gold Standard for Foot & Ankle Edema: CA Podiatrist
If you’ve noticed that whenever the temperature starts to rise, so does the swelling in your feet and ankles, then you should know that you’re not alone. Pegah Panirian, DPM, a podiatrist at The Feet Institute of Los Angeles, told HuffPost that heat affects circulation and fluid balance in the body, which is the main reason why lower extremity swelling is more common in hot weather. “Heat dilates blood vessels, especially in your extremities like your feet and ankles, which causes more blood to [pool] into those areas, and that can lead to fluid from your blood leaking into the surrounding tissue of your vessels,” Dr. Panirian said.
 |
Dr. Pegah Panirian |
She noted that the body’s tendency to retain water in warm temperatures to avoid dehydration and regulate its internal temperature can also contribute to foot and ankle puffiness. “Gravity adds to this problem, because obviously our feet are the lowest points of our body [and] gravity will naturally draw fluid downward, and into our feet and ankles,” Dr. Panirian added. Panirian called compression socks “the gold standard” when it comes to managing foot and ankle swelling, but also acknowledged that in the summertime, they might not be the most comfortable thing to wear.
Source: Tessa Flores, HuffPost [5/10/26]
05/11/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
NJ Podiatrist Uses Astrophotography to Prevent Burnout
‘Burnout’ is a significant concern in medicine, with studies indicating that nearly half of all healthcare workers experience it. Doctors face particularly high rates, with some reports showing more than half of them suffering from burnout. Hackensack Meridian Health’s “Off the Chart” YouTube video series showcases how just a few network physicians achieve work-life balance doing what they love, outside of the practice of medicine. “Off the Chart” includes episodes featuring Ujjwal Datta, DPM, foot & ankle surgeon, Raritan Bay Medical Center and Old Bridge Medical Center.
 |
Dr. Ujjwal Datta |
By day, Dr. Datta helps patients get back to living their lives. By night, he finds peace in the sky. Astrophotography isn’t just a hobby for him. It’s a reset. Under a sky filled with distant galaxies and ancient light, he finds perspective, patience, and peace. Every long exposure is a reminder that even in darkness, there is beauty waiting to be revealed. Watch how one physician trades fluorescent lights for starlight, and how the vastness of space helps him return grounded, present, and ready to heal again.
Source: Hackensack Meridian Health [5/7/26]
05/07/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
FL Podiatrist Provides Insights on Selecting the Correct Shoes
Gideon J. Lewis, DPM, Director of Foot and Ankle Sports Medicine Institute, appeared live on FOX 35 Orlando during Good Day Orlando, serving as a medical expert to discuss one of the most important—yet often overlooked—decisions people make daily: choosing the right shoe. During the segment, Dr. Lewis emphasized that footwear is not one-size-fits-all. Each category—running, training, walking, and sport-specific—serves a unique purpose, offering distinct biomechanical benefits. Wearing the wrong type of shoe can increase the risk of injury, while selecting the appropriate shoe can enhance performance, improve alignment, and reduce stress on the foot and ankle.
 |
Dr. Gideon Lewis |
Dr. Lewis highlighted the rapid evolution of footwear technology. Modern shoes are now designed with advanced cushioning, energy return systems, and enhanced stability features. Dr. Lewis also addressed the emerging category of recovery footwear. These devices represent a new frontier in recovery, integrating compression and mobility to support post-activity rehabilitation.
Source: FOX 35 Orlando [5/4/2026]
05/06/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS)
From: Elliot Udell,DPM
The problem we see in our practice with patients who walk barefoot at home or on their outdoor decks is the risk of foreign bodies. Every summer, we deal with patients who get glass, wood, and other objects in their feet. The typical scenario is that a patient will give in their history that someone in the family broke a glass in the kitchen or on their outdoor patio, and then quickly add, "but we cleaned it all up." My response when I show them the spicule in the hemostat is, "You obviously missed a piece."
Those patients are not wrong. They did do a cleaning job but shattered pieces of glass can travel and small fragments are not always visible to the naked eye. I respect Dr. Conenello's opinion that barefoot walking may offer some benefits. Those of us who have taken yoga or martial arts classes will recall that the teacher requires the class to be taken without footwear. Because of the risk of foreign bodies, however, I am vehemently against people walking around without shoes and socks in their homes.
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY
05/05/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
NY Podiatrist is Advocate of Going Barefoot at Home
“I’m a big advocate for going barefoot at home,” Robert Conenello, DPM said. “[The practice] increases intrinsic muscular strength within the feet.” He explained that the primary benefit of walking barefoot is the reinforcement of the muscles in the feet, which tend to weaken “as we age and wear shoes.” These muscles are closely linked to our overall mobility, so their deterioration can contribute to reduced movement as we get older.
 |
Dr. Robert Conenello |
“Many of the pathologies that I see in my practice are due to the inability to engage these muscles for normal movements and metabolic efficiency,” Dr. Conenello added. While Conenello acknowledges some risks — such as stepping on pathogens like fungi in moist environments — he is quick to emphasize that “proper hygiene can help mitigate these risks.” “Wash your feet frequently, dry them thoroughly and moisturize,” he advised.
Source: Anna Rahmanan, HuffPost [5/3/26]
04/30/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
IL Podiatrist Stresses the Importance of Proper Foot Hygiene
Just like the rest of your body, your feet require proper hygiene. This starts with giving your feet some room to breathe. According to Regan Bond, DPM, closed-toe shoes create an ideal environment for fungus, bacteria, and mold to grow. This overgrowth can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, including itching, burning, cracking, peeling, blisters, foul odors, and changes in skin color and texture. Additionally, fungus can begin in or spread to the toenails, causing thickening, yellowing, brittleness, and separation from the nail bed.
 |
Dr. Regan Bond |
Dr. Bond adds that regularly trimming your toenails is another essential part of foot care that shouldn’t be overlooked. Allowing them to grow too long can lead to ingrown toenails, pain when wearing shoes, and serious complications like bone damage. Finally, be sure to wash your feet with soap and water daily and then pat them dry before putting on socks.
Source: Candace Nagy, EatingWell [4/27/26]
04/29/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
NY Podiatrist Discusses GPS Tracking Shoes and Insoles
From a biomechanics and foot health perspective, tracking devices can be used safely when placed correctly and with a few key considerations in mind,” says Samantha Landau, DPM a podiatrist and assistant professor at New York College of Podiatric Medicine at Touro University. But to ensure that the tracking device doesn’t harm your foot, you should pay attention to the following: Placement: “The safest placement is beneath the insole, where it is cushioned and integrated into the shoe without disrupting the plantar surface,” says Dr. Landau.
 |
Dr. Samantha Landau |
Material sensitivity: “Some individuals have nickel allergies, and because tracking devices may contain metallic components, prolonged exposure in a warm, enclosed environment like a shoe could contribute to skin irritation,” says Dr. Landau. Comfort: After you place the tracking device, re-assess the comfort of the shoe. “It should not feel tighter, uneven, or unstable,” says Landau. “If there is any discomfort, pressure, or change in gait, the device should be re-positioned.”
Source: Bethany Heitman, NBC News [4/23/26]
04/28/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
IL Podiatrist Discusses How to Prevent Bunions and Hammertoes
Most people spend a lifetime on their feet, but few give much thought to footwear until something goes wrong. Marc Leonard, DPM, a podiatrist at OSF HealthCare, says two of the most common issues he sees — bunions and hammer toes — are largely preventable with the right shoes and treatable without surgery when caught early.
 |
Dr. Marc Leonard |
Both conditions share a common preventive measure: proper footwear. Dr. Leonard advises against flip-flops, lightweight canvas shoes, and high heels worn regularly. Instead, he recommends a sturdy walking shoe with good arch support. “Cheapest is not best,” he said. Over-the-counter orthotics can also help, though a podiatrist may recommend a custom insert for those with persistent issues.
Source: Zeno Jo, Chambana Today [4/24/26]
04/27/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
"Don't Wait for Foot Problems to Worsen" - AZ Podiatrist
“Your feet are often the first place where systemic health issues show up. Paying attention to them can help catch problems early and protect your long-term mobility," says podiatrist Justin Singh, DPM of Health U Clinics.
 |
Dr. Justin Singh |
"Untreated issues like infections, ulcers, or structural problems can escalate, sometimes requiring surgery or leading to permanent damage. In severe cases, particularly with unmanaged diabetes, foot complications can lead to hospitalization or even amputation. Don’t wait for a small problem to become a bigger one," says Dr. Simgh.
Source: Arizona Digital Free Press [4/23/26]
04/27/2026
HOSPITAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
Patient Expresses Thanks to TX Podiatrist and Hospital Team
What began as a frightening medical emergency for Bill Riker quickly became a powerful testament to compassionate, coordinated care at Texas County Memorial Hospital. When the possibility of amputation was introduced, the Rikers were understandably overwhelmed.
 |
Dr. Sharon Anderson |
Bill underwent surgery with Sharon Anderson, DPM, podiatrist, and what initially appeared to be a more extensive procedure resulted in a far better outcome than expected. “We went in thinking he might lose much more, but thankfully, it was limited,” Brenda, Bill's wife said. “We truly believe that was a blessing, combined with the skill and care of the medical team.”
Source: Helania Wulff, Houston Herald [4/23/26]
04/24/2026
INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
UK Podiatrist Named a Finalist for Alf Morris Award
The owner of Derry’s Foyle Foot & Ankle Clinic is in the running for a top national honor following her named a finalist for the Royal College of Podiatry’s Alf Morris Award. Shauna Nash was selected as one of just four finalists from across the UK in recognition of her tireless work to improve healthcare access and support vulnerable people within the local community.
 |
Shauna Nash |
The Alf Morris Award is one of the most meaningful honors within podiatry, celebrating individuals who go above and beyond clinical care to make a real difference in their communities - particularly in improving access to healthcare and supporting vulnerable or underserved populations. This recognition highlights the growing role of innovative, community-led healthcare services in the North West, particularly at a time when many patients are facing long waiting lists for treatment.
Source: Derry Now [4/22/26]
04/23/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS)
From: Glenn C. Vitale, DPM
Thank you, Dr. Sushynski. During the first five years of my 43 years of practice, I routinely used a medial approach when performing a plantar fascial release, also removing the spur, with a half inch resection of the plantar fascia to prevent anastomosis. After convincing myself that the spur is not the cause of pain, I stopped removing the spur and switched to a plantar half-moon approach, resulting in successful patient outcomes.
Glenn C. Vitale, DPM, West Haven, CT
04/22/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS - PART 2
IL Podiatrist Explains Why Diabetics Should Wear Light Colored Socks
Regular foot care is essential for anyone living with diabetes, and daily foot checks can prevent small problems from turning into serious infections, said Kyle Swanson, DPM, OSF HealthCare podiatric surgeon. “Diabetes can cause neuropathy, which decreases sensation in your feet, so you may not feel blisters or sores forming,” Dr. Swanson said. “That’s why it’s important to look at your feet every day. If you can’t reach or see the bottom of your foot, ask someone to help or use a mirror.”
 |
Dr. Kyle Swanson |
Swanson also says wearing light-colored socks can help people with diabetes spot problems sooner. Because lighter fabric shows blood or drainage quickly, it can reveal a cut, blister, or sore before the person ever feels it, acting like an early warning system for foot injuries. Equally important as daily foot checks is making sure to maintain proper moisture levels. “If your feet get too sweaty, that moisture can break down the skin and allow bacteria or fungus to grow,” he said. “If they’re too dry, the skin can crack and become an entry point for infection. That balance can shift from day to day, which is why daily checks matter.”
Source: Shaw Local [4/18/26]
04/22/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS - PART 1
MI Podiatrist Dispels Myth That Heel Spurs Cause Pain
"The feet perform a significant amount of work each day, carrying the body from place to place, supporting body weight, and helping maintain an active lifestyle. However, when problems arise, foot pain can make even simple tasks difficult. Understanding common foot conditions and knowing when to seek care can make a big difference in a person's comfort and overall health," says Laura Reitz Sushynski, DPM.
 |
Dr. Laura Reitz Sushynski |
"One of the biggest myths involves heel spurs. Many people think heel spurs cause pain, but in most cases, they don’t. A large percentage of people have them without any symptoms. The pain that people feel is often actually due to plantar fasciitis. Another misconception is that treatment will be very painful. While some procedures may cause mild discomfort, we work hard to make treatments as comfortable as possible," says Dr. Sushynski.
Source: My Michigan Health [4/18/26]
04/21/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
OH Podiatrist Launches New Healthcare Advocacy Coalition
Former Rep. Brad Wenstrup, DPM (R-Oh), is launching Americans for Health Excellence (AFHE), a new political advocacy group to push for better healthcare policies. The former congressman from southwestern Ohio, who is also a podiatrist, retired from the House in 2025. He currently serves on President Donald Trump’s President's Intelligence Advisory Board (PIAB).
 |
Dr. Brad Wenstrup |
Dr. Wenstrup said the coalition will lobby for policies that improve patient access, protect U.S. innovation and preserve free and fair markets. “A lot of times in Washington, you talk about something and it sounds good on paper, but they're not realizing how it might affect patients in the long run,” said Wenstrup. “So we look at the things that address transparency and accountability and affordability.”
Source: Harri Leigh, Spectrum News [4/17/26]
04/17/2026
HOSPITAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
OH Podiatrist Announces OPMH's $65 Million Expansion Project
OhioHealth Pickerington Methodist Hospital (OPMH) has begun work on an expansion of the emergency department (ED) and an additional inpatient unit. The two-story, 57,000 square foot addition will add: 28 ED treatment rooms (bringing total to 44 treatment rooms), One additional ED resuscitation room (bringing total to two), one additional ED triage room (bringing total to two), and two ED intake rooms.
 |
Dr. Kevin Lutz |
“We expanded from a medical campus to a hospital in 2023 and the support from the community has been tremendous,” says Kevin Lutz, DPM, president, Pickerington Methodist Hospital. “To continue to provide high-quality patient care for those who live and work in the area, we’ve realized we need to grow to meet the increasing demand for emergency and inpatient care.” The expansion is a $65 million continued investment in the Pickerington community.
Source: Healthcare Facilities Today
04/16/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS - PART 2
Don't Ignore Athlete's Foot: OH Podiatrist
“Athlete's foot can be a portal of entry for some dangerous infections, particularly in the elderly and people with diabetes. So, it's important to realize that it is a problem,” says Georgeanne Botek, DPM, Head of Podiatry at the Cleveland Clinic.
 |
Dr. Georgeanne Botek |
“Many times, athlete's foot is asymptomatic. But in the elderly or others at higher risk, we can see serious complications that can end up with multiple visits to the doctor, multiple prescription medications, and impairment to normal activity,” says Dr. Botek.
Source: Cleveland Today [4/13/26]
04/15/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
IL Podiatrist Discusses Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown toenail might seem like a minor nuisance, but left untreated, it can turn into a serious problem — especially for people with diabetes. Marc Leonard, DPM, a podiatrist at OSF HealthCare, says the condition is one he sees frequently, and in most cases, it’s preventable. Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the surrounding skin. Some people are more prone to them due to genetics, but lifestyle factors play a role too.
 |
Dr. Marc Leonard |
Treatment depends on severity. In mild cases, a podiatrist may simply trim the side of the nail. More serious cases may require numbing the toe and removing a portion of the nail, along with antibiotics. For chronic sufferers, a permanent solution exists. “We’ll actually kill the side of the nail,” Dr. Leonard said. “We’ll put a chemical in the base of the toe to kill the root. That eliminates growth of the nail on the side.” Recovery from any ingrown nail treatment involves rest and soaking the toe in warm water, with most patients returning to normal activities fairly quickly.
Source: Zeno Jo, Chambana Today [4/12/26]
04/14/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
Diabetic Amputations Often Begin With a Small Cut: TX Podiatrist
"In Texas, [there are] 65,000 amputations a year, and about 7,000 of those occur here in the Rio Grande Valley," UTRGV School of Podiatry Clinical Assistant Professor Raul Maldonado, DPM said. "I was just consulted from the ER to go see a patient with gangrene to the foot. Most likely, this patient will require an amputation; and it started with something simple and now he's going to have an appointment with me in the OR," Dr. Maldonado said.
 |
Dr. Raul Maldonado |
Many of Dr. Maldonado's patients have diabetes. He says, "many of their injuries start small, but are left untreated. The main thing is prevention, but they should have a first aid kit at home in case they do have an accident or if there's any break in the skin, but they have to call their doctor immediately and make an appointment." Diabetes affects blood circulation, which makes it harder for wounds, especially in the feet, to heal properly. "Any time you cut yourself, you need more blood to heal, and if you cut yourself and you don't have enough blood to heal that injury, then it will develop into gangrene," Maldonado said.
Source; Astrid Mendez, KRGV News [4/11/26]
04/13/2026
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
Podiatry: Misunderstood, but Often a Lifesaver: FL Podiatrist
What's misunderstood could also be a potential lifesaver. That's especially true when it comes to foot health. Podiatry remains one of the most misread branches of medicine in today's society. Because of this, Candice Kennedy, DPM, owner of Total Foot Care and Wellness Clinic, said it's important to keep tabs on just how healthy your feet are. "I tell everyone, your feet are the foundation of your mansion. If your feet are not happy, it can literally throw off your entire body," she said.
 |
Dr. Candice Kennedy |
As a podiatrist, Dr. Kennedy said she handles issues such as bunions, fractures, heel pain, tendonitis, hammertoes, amputations, wound care, and sports injuries. "A lot of people are shocked to find out the scope of everything that we deal with," Kennedy said. As April is National Foot Health Awareness month, Kennedy said her practices are making sure to take a key approach to making sure patients are educated and aware of the importance of seeing a podiatrist. Podiatry, she said, is often a lifesaver. "We're oftentimes the first ones to diagnose certain things such as circulation issues or diabetes," Kennedy said. "So, a lot of times we're catching stuff before other disciplines are doing it."
Source: Kyle Woodard, Clay Today [4/8/26]
04/13/2026
HOSPITAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
Montefiore Einstein Welcomes NY Podiatrist
Montefiore Einstein welcomes Kamal S. Farha, DPM, MBA who joins the faculty as Attending Physician, Orthopedic Surgery (Podiatry), Montefiore Einstein. Dr. Farha’s clinical interests include specialized conservative and surgical treatment of disorders of the foot and ankle, with an emphasis on limb salvage and wound healing. His research focuses on wound management and prevention.
 |
Dr. Kamal Farha |
Dr. Farha earned his podiatric medical degree at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine and completed his residency at Montefiore Mount Vernon Hospital, serving as the chief resident in his final year. He then pursued a fellowship in advanced tissue and wound healing at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital. Dr. Farha has also completed his Master of Business Administration at the University of Miami.
Source: Montefiore Einstein Now [4/13/26]
04/10/2026
HOSPITAL PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
IL Podiatrist Promotes April as National Foot Health Awareness Month
"April is National Foot Health Awareness Month, a great time to spread awareness about opportunities for podiatric care," says David Yeager, DPM, a podiatric surgeon at Morrison Community Hospital (MCH).
 |
Dr. David Yeager |
Dr. Yeager was recently promoted to Chief of Staff and Chief of Surgery at MCH, and in the past he served as President of the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association and sat on the Board of the American Podiatric Medical Association. He has also volunteered to perform complimentary foot screenings for the past 18 years for the Elks Crippled Children Clinic.
Source: Shaw Local [4/8/26]
.jpg)
