The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

May 04, 2012 #4,453 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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Low Wedge Heels Help Distribute Weight: IL Podiatrist

"As we age, the soft tissues that support our arches lose their resiliency," says podiatrist Dr. Melissa Skratsky, a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association — and teetering around in high heels or pounding the pavement in thin-soled flats adds to the ouch.

Dr. Melissa Skratsky

But wearing low wedge heels can help. They distribute your weight better and reduce painful pressure on the balls of your feet and your heels.

Source: Jessica Girdwain, MSN Health & Fitness [5/1/12]

48 Students Graduate from Barry University

On Saturday, forty-eight students received the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree (DPM) from the Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine at the 24th commencement ceremony. Barry School of Podiatric Medicine now has over 1,150 graduates. Irvin O. Kanat, DPM, past president of the American Podiatric Medical Association, was the featured speaker. 

(L-R) Drs. Irvin Kanat and Dean Jeffrey Jensen

Class of 2012 graduate, Dr. Joshua Bowman was the class valedictorian and winner of the Dean’s Award. Dr. Sofie Lavinia Pinney received the President’s Award for demonstrated leadership to the Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine through recruitment, tutoring, and extramural campus activities. Dr. Vinay Matai, 2012 class president, was the winner of the Leadership Award, given to a student who displayed remarkable administrative ability and leadership over the four years of study at the School of Podiatric Medicine.

Aussie Podiatrist Receives Advanced Degree

Dressed in her ceremonial cap and gown, Rebecca Gilroy graduated from the University of South Australia with a Master of Health Science (Podiatry) at the end of March. Owner and podiatrist of Firm Foundations, Mrs. Gilroy said studying her masters was about consolidating her knowledge. "It was a challenge because I had to travel down to Adelaide for classes and skills workshops, but it was worthwhile because I now have a more in-depth knowledge about sports and pediatrics biomechanics, my main two focuses. 

Rebecca Gilroy

The 28-year-old vice president of Australian Podiatry Association (Queensland) said she had always had in interest in podiatry. "I was interested in posture and the effects it could have on a person's health, and because our feet are the foundation of our whole body, they affect our posture more than anything," Mrs. Gilroy said.

Source: Warwick Daily News [5/1/12]

AENS Launches Webinar Series

The Association of Extremity Nerve Surgeons (AENS) has launched an online webinar with a questions and answer period for members and guests. The goal is to promote and advance extremity nerve treatment and share ideas. The first free webinar was held April 25 and highlighted two lectures: 1) Morton's Entrapment by Dr. Stephen Barrett of Phoenix, AZ and 2) Superficial Peroneal Nerve Problems by Dr. Peter Bregman, current President of AENS, of Las Vegas, NV.

(L-R) Drs. Stephen Barrett, Peter Bregman, and Adam Perler

The webinar was moderated by Dr. Adam Perler of Carmel, IN. A 30-minute active Q&A session was included and allowed participants to ask any questions on cases, procedures, and outcomes. Dr. Perler also highlighted the fact that the AENS Foundation is accepting papers on nerve treatment by 4th year podiatry students and residents for the Nickerson Award.

FL Podiatrist Re-Appointed to State Podiatry Board

Florida Governor Rick Scott announced the re-appointment of Dr. Chet Evans to the Board of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Evans is currently Vice President for Medical Education and Program Development at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine’s branch campus in Bradenton, Florida.

Dr. Chet Evans

Evans also serves as chair of the Florida Diabetes Advisory Council.

90-day Demo Period for Stage 2 Urged

A group of chief information officers and other health information technology professionals is calling on the CMS to implement a 90-day demonstration period for the first year in which providers will attest to having met Stage 2 electronic health-record system meaningful-use requirements.

The recommendation, which mirrors the 90-day period used for the first year of Stage 1 of the federal government's EHR incentive program, was part of a pair of formal comments by the Ann Arbor, MI-based College of Healthcare Information Management Executives.

Source: Joseph Conn, Modern Healthcare [5/1/12]

RE: Numbness and Blue Discoloration of Hallux
From: Barry Mullen, DPM

Raynaud's disease is the prime differential diagnosis. Barefoot teaching? What's that daily environment like? The lack of repetitive digital insulation allows for vasospasm, especially if the local environment is cool. Color improvement with rapid warming is one give away. Cool temperature of the acral portion of his toe is another. Distal numbness is yet another corroborative sign since this is likely created from repetitive vasopsasm and associated digital nerve ischemia. Less likely is an embolic phenomena, for that would generally not repeat itself like a vasospasm event often does.
 
Empirically, have your patient change his daily barefoot protocol by insulating his feet during class. Foot circles and a stroll about the class room should also quickly help reduce the vasospasm event(s). If not, consider instituting a calcium channel blocker, or other suitable therapy designed to either relax the arterial smooth muscle to break up the spasms, or dilate the distal, digital arterioles. If not familiar with these medications and side-effects, a vascular consult is warranted as this certainly sounds like a vascular issue.
 
Barry Mullen, DPM, Hackettstown, NJ, yazy630@aol.com

RE: It's Time for Podiatry to "Occupy" Healthcare
From: Peter A. Wiggin, DPM

As I reflect on the resurgence of the Occupy movement, I consider my experiences at this year's APMA House of Delegates. There was much fanfare at the HOD, but the message that I remember most was Dr. Gastwirth's address regarding the failure of the APMA membership to utilize the E-Advocacy site to achieve the profession's goals, including Title XIX reform.

Although the APMA may be right in regard to the E-Advocacy site, the profession has failed to use any social media activity to secure podiatry's future in the American medical system. A case in point would be Dr. Block's wonderful PM News as a tool to organize our profession towards the future. I continue to read about individual accomplishments and complaints, but no concerted effort towards advocacy or change.

This year why doesn't our profession "occupy" the...

Editor's note: Dr. Wiggins' extended-length letter can be read here.

RE: Recent Research Confirms Therapeutic Effect of Foot Orthoses for Anterior Knee Pain (Jeff Root)
From: Robert Bijak, DPM, Kevin A. Kirby, DPM

As the writer of one of the two letters that Mr. Root referenced, I must take issue with his statement, "We must all accept the limitations of the research environment." We must NEVER accept a poorly constructed study, and must discard its conclusions. There are enough myths in podiatric biomechanics and orthotic theory already. Observer bias is one type of study error, and Mr. Root has a well-known bias in the area of shoe inserts. 

Robert Bijak, DPM, Clarence Center, NY rbijak@aol.com

As Jeff Root very clearly stated, the research study on anterior knee pain (i.e. patellofemoral syndrome), which I posted on PM News a few days ago, prospectively investigated the therapeutic effects of foot orthoses versus no treatment over a six week treatment period. The orthoses used were over-the-counter (OTC) orthoses and showed a significant effect in reducing the knee pain with 79% of the subjects who received these OTC orthoses (Mills K, et al., 2011).

Certainly, it seems plausible if OTC orthoses can have this much therapeutic effect for the treatment of patellofemoral syndrome by presumably altering the kinetics and kinematics of the foot and lower extremity, then the judicious use of prescription foot orthoses made with modifications such as inverted balancing position, well-formed medial arch, medial heel skive, and varus forefoot extensions will have an even greater potential to relieve the pain from patellofemoral syndrome by more specifically altering the kinetics and kinematics of the foot and lower extremity in order to address the abnormal biomechanics that result in this condition. 

Unfortunately, at this time, no research studies have compared the therapeutic efficacy of OTC to custom foot orthoses for the treatment of patellofemoral syndrome. However, in my clinical experience and that of many other sports podiatrists who routinely treat cases of patellofemoral syndrome in running and jumping athletes, specially modified prescription foot orthoses are quite effective, along with hip and thigh strengthening exercises, in successfully treating this painful and disabling condition.

Kevin A. Kirby, DPM, Sacramento, CA, kevinakirby@comcast.net

RE: Sterilizing Bits Between Debridements (Jeff Kittay, DPM)
From: Lancing Malusky, DPM

I have been in practice since 1974 and am ABPS Board Certified. When we remodeled in 1986, I installed a central vacuum for our Xanax C0₂ laser. This quite adequately removes the environmental nail dust. My patients greatly appreciate having mechanical debridement of thick nails. When done with the debridement, we spin the bit in the cold sterile solution, instantly removing remnant debris. Making a DPM feel retro for providing this service is silly. And at 64, I am still very healthy, active, and lung disease free!

Lancing Malusky, DPM, Kettering, OH, lmalusky@woh.rr.com

RE: Mobile Health Apps Prompt Questions About Privacy
From: Joshua Kaye, DPM

With the increased availability of cloud-based EMR software, we will soon, if not currently, be able to access our patient records directly from a Smart Phone such as an iPhone, Android or BlackBerry product. In addition, these devices are often synchronized with our computer-based contact list and Outlook. While this ability is very convenient, it is important to be aware of HIPAA and identity theft vulnerability.

Thousands of smart phones are lost or stolen every day. Often, users don’t even password their smart phones, making all their contact information, banking information, and even passwords available on their mobile devices. However, even if the device is password-protected or the memory card is “wiped clean” or returned to original factory settings, the data on the smart phone is still available to hackers. It is critical to both password-protect and to encrypt the data on the phone. Verify that your choice of smart phone has the ability to encrypt the data on both the internal SIM and memory cards.
 
Joshua Kaye, DPM, Los Angeles, CA, jk@joshuakaye.com

RE: The Passing of John Pagliano, DPM
From: Jon Hultman, DPM, MBA
 
When we lose a pioneer such as John Pagliano, it is the Star Wars equivalent of feeling a “disturbance in the force.” In the early 70s, when I first read a George Sheehan, MD, article in Runners’ World Magazine discussing how John Pagliano had helped a distance runner overcome a “runner’s knee” problem by utilizing a functional orthotic, I knew it would be a game-changer for the entire profession. I didn’t know John at the time, but I called him immediately to discuss biomechanics and how he was applying it in sports medicine to keep patients running. We have been in touch ever since, and he even got me to run one marathon. 
 
John was not looking to be in the spotlight, but he was thrust into it none-the-less, which was to all of our benefit. In spite of his “fame,” he was willing to share what he knew with anyone who asked. Those who may not have had the opportunity to know John personally have all benefited from his activities that earned him international respect across all healthcare disciplines. His passing leaves a major void, and we in California are certainly going to miss him.

Jon Hultman, DPM, MBA, Los Angeles, CA

PRACTICE WANTED - FINGERLAKES REGION, NY

Looking to purchase a podiatry practice in the Finger Lakes Region of NY. Serious inquiries should be sent to: aspenpodiatry@gmail.com

SPACE AVAILABLE - NYC & LI

Office to sublet and share - 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. Also availability E 22nd between 2nd and 3rd and E 70th off 3rd. Turn-key operation - no investment needed 516 476-1815 PODO2345@AOL.COM

F/T CERTIFIED MEDICAL ASSISTANT - NEW YORK

**Must have NYS certification for podiatric x-rays. Primary responsibility is to provide full clinical support to the podiatrist. THIS INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING: Maintenance logs, inventory, preparing patients for visits, x-rays, assisting with patient registration, appointment scheduling, calling in prescriptions to pharmacies, chart retrieval, providing lab result with charts to physicians, etc. Salary commensurate with experience; benefits/ after probationary period. Fax resume to 212-713-1631 or e-mail tottolliver@wpmg.org

PRACTICE FOR SALE — BROOKLYN, NY

This practice has been in the same location for 31 years, seeing 80-100 pts/week, working 4.5 days/week. Grossing $350K and netting close to 70%. All surgery referred out. Low rent, option to buy the building in future. Asking $225K, doctor willing to finance. Call 800-983-4194, or email contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - HOUSTON, TEXAS

30 year old busy, progressive practice for sale with an excellent reputation and well established, diverse referral base. Well trained, dedicated, supportive staff. Excellent cash flow ($400K net income after overhead). EMR, digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound. Free standing building also available with large outdoor sign. Owner retiring and willing to stay part time during transition. Contact: mcrosby@picagroup.com or call (888) 776 2430.

PRACTICE FOR SALE - BROOKLYN, NY

A large, busy practice is for sale in Brooklyn, NY. This practice has been in the same location for over 50 years. Average 150 pts/week, average gross 730K, most surgery is referred out. Financing available. Call 800-983-4194, or email contactus@podiatrypracticeconsultants.com

PRACTICE FOR SALE - AUSTIN TEXAS

Great opportunity for new practitioner or an additional office. 18 year practice with large patient base. Current physician transitioning to part time then retiring to pursue another business opportunity. Start turn-key without need for a bank loan. Great area to live and work. Susieintx@aol.com (512) 565-6634

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FINGERLAKES REGION, NY

Podiatry Group looking for a dynamic and motivated associate to join our medical and surgical practice. Track to partnership. Competitive salary, incentives, health insurance, malpractice insurance, educational expenses, and professional dues included. Familiarity with the region encouraged. Candidate should be ABPS qualified or certified. Close to Pennsylvania if expanded scope of practice desired. Send CV to nypodiatrygroup@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - OH

Join a well-established modern practice in Dayton, Ohio. Excellent reputation and referral base. Base salary $120,000, benefits and bonus structure. EMR, diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet vascular studies, CO2 lasers, all aspects of DME. We seek a surgeon that is well-trained and personable to join our group of 4 podiatric surgeons. Would like to have this individual buy in to the practice eventually. Please send CV and to Ohiodoctors@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – ANCHORAGE, ALASKA

Associate wanted for hospital-based podiatry group practice. Full scope of practice. PSR24+. Outstanding opportunity, work environment, and recreational pursuits. Fax CV to 907-562-5195, please call 907-562-4958.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

Kansas City may be the perfect move for you and your family. I am looking for an entrepreneurial minded associate who wants to grow and then own part of an already successful practice. If you are the right candidate for this associate position, you will enjoy a competitive compensation package and you will be working with a doctor who is as committed to your success as he is to his own. Go to: www.YourFutureInPodiatry.com for full details.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK

Full-time position available immediately in Capital District multiple doctor practice. Good salary with percentage. All phases of podiatry. NYS license required. Email resume to Lchittenden68@gmail.com or call Lori at 518-577-6171

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MANHATTAN

Podiatrist needed for busy state-of-the-art offices in Manhattan. Offices are located near Penn and Grand Central Station. 10+ years experience only and an out-of-network doctor for most insurances. Please forward your information and CV to: roni@myfcny.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TENNESSEE/NORTH GEORGIA

Multi-physician, Multi-office practice looking for motivated new associate leading to partnership. We are a busy practice with state of the art technology: EHR, Digital X-ray, Diagnostic Ultrasound, PADnet, EPAT machine. Applicant should be PMS 36/Board Qualified/Certified. Applicant should be ethical, personable, hard working and interested in providing all aspects of podiatric care to our patients. Competitive Salary and benefits. All interested candidates please send a CV with two letters of reference to: mybestnewjob@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS – MARYLAND
 
Are you motivated, personable and enjoy working with the elderly? We are offering part-time positions in Maryland. Our group, Podiatry Management Services, provides care in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living, Senior Homes, Adult Daycare and other similar facilities. Please e-mail your c.v. todrhprosen@verizon.net or fax to 410-486-2049 or call Dr. Herbert Rosen at 410-580-0255.

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS - MULTIPLE STATES

Podiatrist Needed in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, Colorado, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma. Expanding multi-state medical practice seeking podiatrists to service long-term care community residing in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. We offer an established patient base, scheduling, equipment allowance and cover travel expenses. Provide generous compensation, bonus opportunities, disability, health insurance benefits, malpractice coverage and flexible scheduling. Looking for a Podiatrist with excellent skills, able to provide expert and compassionate care to patients. Email CV to: careers@aggeus.org or call 773-770-0140 x300/x305. www.aggeus.org

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 13,500 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 13,500 DPM's. Write to bblock@podiatrym.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details. Weekly ad rates start as low as $115 for a 50-word ad. 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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