The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 12,500 Podiatrists Daily

January 28, 2011 #4,075 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Wearing Worn Shoes Can Cause Foot Problems: MN Podiatrist

From the faithful running shoe to the whimsical sandal, from the sensible work loafer to the sexy stiletto, all shoes reach a point at which they have outlived their usefulness, and we must let them go. "The shoe wears out in the area where we overload it, so the part where you need the most support isn't there," said Minneapolis podiatrist Dr. Paul Langer, clinical professor at the University of Minnesota. "A worn shoe can exaggerate the biomechanical faults you already have."

Dr. Paul Langer

A loss of support and cushioning can cause shin splints, Achilles tendinitis, knee pain and plantar fasciitis, a common form of heel pain. As a shoe's sole and heel wear down unevenly, the likelihood of twisting an ankle increases. In severe cases, old shoes can cause stress fractures, Langer said.

Source: Alexia Elejalde-Ruiz, Chicago Tribune [1/26/11]

APMA Takes Swift Action on Defamatory Video

APMA’s new Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) took swift action last week to address a video featuring a South Carolina-based orthopedic surgeon broadly criticizing podiatric medicine. The CPA reviewed the video and, working closely with legal counsel and the South Carolina Podiatric Medical Association, determined it included inaccurate and defamatory material about podiatrists’ education, training, and experience that was potentially harmful to APMA members.

Dr. Thomas Joseph in defamatory video

APMA’s legal counsel drafted a cease-and-desist letter that was delivered to the surgeon this week. The letter outlines several of the inaccuracies in the video and demands that he remove it from the websites where it is posted and cease distribution of the video through other channels. If he does not comply, the CPA will explore further legal options.

Source: APMA News Brief [1/27/11]

ACFAS Funds Scholl Student for Honduras Medical Mission

Philip Parr, a 3rd year student from the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine recently got a generous offer from Dr. David C. Cavallaro, President of Division III of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons while on his clerkship month at the Surgical Hospital of Oklahoma/Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Dr. Cavallaro and the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons offered to fund a trip to San Pedro Sula, Honduras for a surgical mission. 

Philip Parr and Dr. David C. Cavallaro

“We were just sitting in the office talking before the patients came in. I jokingly told Dr. Cavallaro I would go with him, knowing there was no chance of it actually happening. Two days later, there was a plane ticket to Honduras waiting in my email”, says Philip. Dr. Cavallaro has been in practice for 32 years and has been involved in podiatric medical mission work to Honduras for the past 13 years.

MD Podiatrist's Health Show Returns to Baltimore TV

Dr. Anna Marie Chwastiak has returned to Baltimore TV after a nine-year hiatus — switching channels, dropping her surname, and presenting her own show on WBAL. The former WMAR health reporter, whose news beat focused on the area's medical institutions, has turned executive producer and host of "Your Life with Dr. Anna Marie," a half-hour show in which she offers advice and tips on subjects like exercise, relaxation, and maintaining a healthful diet.

Dr. Anna Marie Chwastiak

"Every week, I will talk about living life to the fullest in a way that is balanced, but not boring," she said. When Chwastiak left WMAR in a 2001 downsizing, and she started her own production company near her home on Rumsey Island in Harford County.

Source: Mary Gail Hare, The Baltimore Sun [1/16/11]

Stay Positive During Performance Reviews

Unless an employee’s performance is truly unacceptable, use positive language during performance reviews. During an evaluation, negative words such as “failure” and “unsatisfactory” can damage morale without creating the improvements you want to see.

Best: Say “You need to improve in that area” or “You need to put greater effort into …” That keeps the conversation future-oriented and positive, which is how you want employees to feel when discussing performance problems.

Source: Adapted from The #1 Guide to Performance Appraisals, James Neal Jr., Neal Publications Inc. via Communication Briefings

Query: Providing Post-op Care 

I had an interesting request from a patient of many years. She wants to travel out-of-state to have foot surgery.  After a few days, she would travel back to New York, and requested I provide her post-op care. Her surgeon apparently has no problem with this. She is a very nice woman who, I no doubt, has respect for my skills, but she and her family are the types who demand that any surgery must be done by "the best" and "most prestigious" surgeon. I told her I would consider her request.

I was wondering about others' thoughts on this arrangement. Is it worth the trouble? Am I opening up myself for aggravation I don't need? 

Justin Sussner, DPM, Monroe, NY

RE: Radiographs and Plantar Fasciitis
From: Michael Forman, DPM

Weight-bearing radiographs are an expected diagnostic test for a patient who presents with heel pain. It is the standard of care. They aid in the diagnosis of pathomechanical problems as well as ruling out fractures and tumors. Failure to order this diagnostic test without a sound reason is below the standard of care in podiatry.
 
Michael Forman, DPM, Cleveland, OH, im4man@aol.com

RE: Employee Embezzlement (Name Withheld)
From: Tip Sullivan, DPM

I can identify with your situation. It is even worse if your employee had been working with you for over 12 years and was supposedly a trusted friend. When this happened to me, I was floored. I can tell you in retrospect that what I did that was wrong. I was told, "Depending on how much money we are talking about, you may spend more money in court fees and attorney fees and time than it is worth." I was so emotionally affected at the time that I was in denial. I wanted this thing to go away; the money aspect of it was minimal (even though it was a lot of money) when compared to the emotional cost, so I chose not to pursue it. THAT WAS THE WRONG THING TO DO!

Now that I know better--I would hire a forensic accountant to review my books--first. I would then contact my local district attorney and give them the evidence for criminal pursuit. After that, I would seek financial compensation from the employee. Through my discussions with other physicians in my area, this is not a rare occurrence. What is rare is action taken against the thief. In my case, the employee felt that they "deserved the money" and justified their action that way. People (even podiatrists) will justify most anything in their own minds, but the truth is that these people are thieves.

As a human in our society, you have a duty to do the right thing and prevent this person from doing this again, as well as making the person pay reparations. If this happened to me again, I would go all out to pursue it, regardless of cost. 
 
Tip Sullivan, DPM, Jackson, MS, tsdefeet@msfootcenter.net

RE: Three-Quarters of Americans Don't Exercise Because of Foot Pain: Study
From: Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH

I was very pleased to see the thrust of the long overdue APMA survey on foot pain (PM News - January 27, 2011), but I do not think that our profession has gone nearly far enough. Long overdue are epidemiological studies, funded hopefully by such credible agencies as the CDC or NIH. They should be meticulously developed, examining the direct relationship of foot pain as a major contributing cause to cardiovascular disease as well as its progression. Indeed, these should include an evidence-based determination of the association of foot pain and heart disease to the incidence of myocardial infarction and even death.

Similar studies should also be focused on diabetes.  Perhaps, if qualified members of the podiatric medical profession do such research, some of which in collaboration with cardiologists, internists, or others, it would generate long overdue and powerful information about the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment of painful disorders of the pedal extremity. Such an approach would go considerably further than what may otherwise be construed by some to mainly be marketing efforts.

Leonard A. Levy, DPM, MPH, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, levyleon@nova.edu

RE: Reimbursement for Wound Care 22% Lower in 2011: CA Podiatrist 
 
Thank you for this article about the new wound codes. My billing staff and I have been back and forth about what these codes really mean and how to use them. Dr. Rogers' article clearly stated how the 20 sq cm is really to be interpreted, especially in relation to multiple wounds.

Jocelyn Kelly Curry, DPM, Lithonia, GA

RE: The Passing of Leonard Pock, DPM

I am saddened to report that my brother, Leonard Pock, DPM, passed away on Wednesday evening, January 26th, 2011 in a Calgary, Canada hospital. He lost his battle with tertiary Parkinson's disease. Dr. Len Pock practiced in the suburbs of Chicago for over 25 years, and then moved to Red Deer, Canada where he initiated practice in his beloved profession of podiatry. He was 79 years old on January 8th, 2011.
 
Leonard and I were graduates of the former Illinois College of Podiatry/Chicago College branch in June of 1956. Leonard leaves a loving wife Sarah. Internment will be in Shalom Memorial Park, in the suburbs of Chicago, IL.
 
Arnold Pock, DPM, MS, Pensacola, FL

PART-TIME / FULL-TIME PODIATRIST NEEDED ASAP - CHICAGO 

Part-time podiatrist needed for 2 offices in Chicago with an average of 20 hours/week. Must have Illinois license. Must have completed 2 years of surgical residency. If qualified, email to: A-Storjohann@footexperts.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA

Eight-physician podiatry group with six locations in South Central Pennsylvania looking for a ninth full-time associate with a minimum of a three-year surgical residency and interest in future partnership. We offer a very busy, fast paced environment with an excellent support team. State-of-the-art practice with our own physical therapy department and surgical center. We offer a six figure salary with competitive bonus incentives, CME allowance, 401K, paid malpractice insurance, as well as established patient base. Persons interested in pursuing this opportunity, email CV to: MFATRANS@AOL.COM

ASSOCIATE POSITION - PHILADELPHIA, SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

Seeking motivated, independent foot & ankle surgeon to join large practice. Our multi-office practice covers all aspects of foot and ankle pathology, including heavy hospital volume. Offering competitive salary and benefit package. Send CV and two references to bleich5252@yahoo.com

PART-TIME/FULL-TIME PODIATRIST NEEDED - INDIANA

Part-time full-time Podiatrist needed for our Indiana offices. Must have Indiana license. Must have completed two years of surgical residency. If qualified email to f-massuda@footexperts.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Douglas Richie, DPM is seeking a well-trained, motivated podiatric physician to join his two office practice located in North Orange County, California. Applicants must have completed a 3-year residency program and must have exceptional skills in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, sports medicine and podiatric biomechanics. This is a salaried position with a goal of long-term buy-in for equity ownership. Send letter of interest and CV to drichiejr@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK CITY

One of the fastest growing podiatry practices in New York City and Queens seeks a podiatrist who participates with HealthFirst, Fidelis, and other Medicaid plans. Preferably a Spanish speaking podiatrist. Contact me at Podocare@aol.com

GREAT OPPORTUNITY AVAILABLE- PHOENIX, AZ
 
A great opportunity to join and gain ownership interest in a well-established, diversified practice in Phoenix. Seeking motivated, ethical, well trained, personable AZ licensed DPM with excellent office management and clinical skills in all phases of podiatry. Practice is state-of-the-art and encompasses all phases of podiatric care. New and established practitioners are welcome, or someone open to merging a smaller practice with ours. Board Qualified/Certified required. Please send CV  phxpod@gmail.com

IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE- ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, OHIO

Join a well-established modern practice with an excellent reputation and referral base. Base salary $100,000 and benefits with a bonus structure. EMR, diagnostic ultrasound, all aspects of DME, Padnet vascular studies, and CO2 lasers. We seek a surgeon that is well trained, personable and motivated to join our group of 3 Podiatric Surgeons. Would like this individual to buy in the practice eventually. Please send resume to ohiodoctors@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CT - (FAIRFIELD AND NORTH HAVEN)

Join one of the largest podiatric groups in Connecticut. Well-established and progressive offices, including EMR, digital x-ray, vascular and NCV studies, Pinpointe and CO2 lasers, diagnostic ultrasound and electrical stimulation therapy. You can expect a full schedule of patients the day you start, and a very competitive salary. For more info, www.GreatFootCare.com. Send resume to Dr.Kassaris@yahoo.com. Applications due by Jan 31st.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - BOSTON

Board certified podiatrist (ABPS, ABPOPPM) wanted to join Orthopedic & Arthritis Center at Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA. The position is per diem, 2 days/ week. Interested candidates should send their CV to: Brenda Surowiec, Orthopedic & Arthritis Center, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115. Or email to bsurowiec@partners.org

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Immediate opening. Well-established podiatric group in Southwest Florida. Multi-office practice with EMR, Digital x-ray, Ultrasound and more. Seeking full-time associate that is PM and S-36 trained, personable, independent and highly motivated. Must be BC/BS in rearfoot and ankle with confidence in complex reconstructive cases. Full benefits package, competitive salary, excellent lifestyle. Email CV to: JLH459@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - OHIO/INDIANA

PrimeSource Healthcare, a leading provider of mobile, on-site healthcare services at long-term and skilled nursing facilities. Our exceptional growth has created a need for traveling, independent contractors of podiatry services in Ohio/Indiana. Earn between $175k and $225k per year. E-mail CV to Kris Wright, kwright@pshcs.com. 847-580-5960. Visit us at pshcs.com.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - COOL TOUCH LASER

Cool Breeze Cool Touch CT3 plus laser used for fungus toe nail infections Less than six months old. Great price won't last long. Considering a laser? We also have the Q- Clear Q- switch laser too. This laser is perfect for you. E-mail footcare@comcast.net

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - MICROVAS UNITS

Two lightly-used microvas units, 16-lead machines (included) , $7,000 each or best offer for both. Great therapy modality: edema, neuropathy pain, increases peripheral flow, increase soft tissue healing. Great practice from vascular surgeons sending patients for treatment, pays for itself. Unit will come with the charger. jhalvorsen@familyfootandlegcenter.com

SHOCKWAVE MACHINE FOR SALE

D-Actor 200 by Storz Medical. High Frequency Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Treatment (EPAT) System. A little over a year old, excellent results for plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Must sell;  practice merger. Selling for $18,000 (new machine >30K) Will include onsite training if necessary. Email footdoc21@gmail.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

An extremely well-run, paperless office on sale. Owner moving out of state due to family reasons. State-of-art EMR system, trained staff. Office across from main hospital. From 2005-2009, average gross was ~500 K with potential of grossing a lot higher. For more details contact: podiatry-practice4sale@hotmail.com

SPACE AVAILABLE- NYC & LI

Office to sublet and share with DPM and chiropractor, East 60th Manhattan, and Plainview long island. access to an MRI, Joint Commission certified operating rooms, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and access to a multi-specialty ambulatory surgical center. Turn-key operation - no investment needed 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM

SPACE AVAILABLE - BRANSON, MO

Great opportunity to develop a podiatry practice in a four condominium Branson office building with a growing ophthalmology practice along with a well established optometry practice and a multi-disciplinary ambulatory surgery center in Branson, a top ten retirement destination.The available condominium is a grey box so it can be build out to specifications. Rental and/or ownership options are available for this condominium. Practice development financing and ASC ownership available for the right doctor. Great schools and affordable lakeside or golf course living available. Contact Dr. James Bureman @ jbureman@missourieye.com or 417-861-5839

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 12,500 DPM's and Students

Whether you have used equipment to sell or our offering an associate position, PM News classified ads are the fastest, most-effective way of reaching over 12,500 DPM's. Write to bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. THIS OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO BUSINESSES PROVIDING PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. Note: For commercial or display ads contact David Kagan at (800) 284-5451.

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