FAQS

1: Do you do general chiropody?
Yes we do using cutting edge machines to file nails, corns, callus and cracked heels.

2: I have a heel spur. Do I need to have it removed?
No. Most people who have heel pain caused by a "heel spur" do not need surgery. The reason is that there is a ligament-like structure on the bottom of the foot that courses the arch and connects into the heel. At times, this tissue which is termed the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. As a result, there is an inflammatory process which the body calcifies creating a heel spur. The pain comes first, the spur comes later, and the spur generally does not cause the pain. It is important to remember that there are many people who have heel pain without a spur and plenty of people who have heel spurs, but no pain. Dr. Sami can show you how heel pain can be treated without surgery. You should know that heel pain is one of the most common foot ailments, and 95% of those who obtain treatment for plantar fasciitis go on to full recovery without the need for surgery.

3: Should children be treated by a podiatrist?
Yes. It is important to remember that pain is not normal. Your child should not have pain. Your family physician may describe your child's discomfort as "GROWING PAINS," however that can be a sign of something more serious. Dr. Sami is well-trained in pediatric-specific foot and ankle disorders. The most common disorders involving our pediatric patients include: heel pain, flat feet, ingrown nails, warts, and sprains. Dr. Sami treats children of all ages.

4: My child has flat feet. Should he/she be treated?
Yes. Flat feet in children are common. In fact, all children have flat feet until the age of 5 or 6 when the arch develops. Many times "flat feet" are not painful. However, if your child is having pain, is clumsy when running, or chooses to sit on the sidelines when others are playing, then that might be a sign of a problem. Also, if you see your child's ankles "rolling in" especially when viewed from behind, then you should have him/her examined. Often times, doctors will prescribe orthotic devices, custom made inserts to be worn in the shoe to help realign the bones and joints of the foot. This allows the foot to mature in a good position.

5: What are orthotics?
Foot orthotics are custom-made devices that are worn in your shoes. Dr. Sami will either take a mold of your feet with plaster or use a computerized digital scanner to obtain "impressions" of your feet. This makes an identical picture of your foot. We then send the molds/scan to an orthotic laboratory for fabrication. Orthotics are more than arch support. Orthotic devices are used for a variety reasons. The orthotic devices control the foot and help realign the structures of the foot. Orthotics have influence on the spine, hip, knee, ankle, and foot. Orthotic devices are useful in treating a myriad of disorders that cause pain or dysfunction of the lower extremity.

6: I am diabetic. How often should I be seen by a podiatrist?
All diabetic patients should have a podiatrist. On your initial exam, Dr. Sami will tell you if you are at low or high risk for complications in your feet. Generally speaking, a diabetic patient that has good ciruculation and no neurologic deficit (numbness/burning/tingling) can be seen on an annual basis. However, if one is at higher risk with poor circulation and/or numbness in the feet, then exams/treatments should be done every 2-3 months