The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

May 31, 2012 #4,476 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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NC Podiatrist Discusses Drop Foot

Sometimes, experts don't have to see you walk -- they can hear you coming down the hall. A condition called "foot slap" or "drop foot" is when your foot literally slaps the ground as you walk. "It's caused by muscle weakness of the anterior tibial muscle or the peroneal muscles," says podiatrist Dr. Jane E. Andersen, who has a practice in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and is a past president of the American Association for Women Podiatrists.

Dr. Jane Andersen

A healthy stride starts with a heel strike; then the foot slowly lowers to the ground; then it lifts from the toe and slings back to your heel. But with drop foot, muscle control is lost and the foot can't return slowly to the ground. Instead, it "slaps" the ground. "This could be a sign of a stroke or other neuromuscular event, or of compression of a nerve," Andersen says. A ruptured disk in the back is a common cause, since it can compress a nerve that travels down the leg. A rare cause of drop foot is simply crossing your legs, Andersen says, if the common peroneal nerve is disrupted from the pressure.

Source:  Paula Spencer Scott, Yahoo Health [5/23/12]

Aussie Podiatrist Discusses Overuse Syndromes

"The most common thing we see is that people try to do too much, too soon. They set themselves a goal such as running a marathon or half marathon, and they try to build up their training too quickly. This leads to injuries. The bones, tendons, and ligaments try to adapt to the new stresses being put on them," says podiatrist Kent Sweeting. 

Kent Sweeting

Blisters are common in new runners. "These can be drained with a sterile needle. Antibiotic creme and a dressing should be applied for 3-5 days. If redness occurs, a podiatrist should be consulted," says Sweeting.

Jacquie Mackay, ABC Briscoe [5/29/12]

IL Podiatrist Presents at German Orthopedics Congress

At the 13th European Federation of National Associations of Orthopedics and Traumatology (EFORT) Congress 2012, Dr. Wenjay Sung, from Mount Sinai Hospital in Chicago, IL presented his research on MRI findings for plantar plate ligament tears and hammertoe surgery advances. There were over 6,600 attendees. 

Dr. Wenjay Sung

"It was an amazing experience to represent podiatry alongside European surgeons and colleagues. I encourage more American podiatric participation in the future as research can open universal doors of collaboration," said Sung.

PA Podiatrist to Lecture on Perils of High Heels

Easton Hospital will be hosting "Oh My Aching Feet: A Look at the Perils of High Heels" Thursday, May 31 in the hospital's Kroner Auditorium. 

Dr. Joseph Saka

The Healthy Woman presentation, which includes the option of free foot screenings, will be led by podiatrist Joseph Saka. Dr. Saka will discuss the damage that can be done to women's feet and posture by wearing high heels. He will also speak about footgear that can ease foot pain due to improperly fitting shoes and heels.

Source: The Morning Call [5/29/12]

Alleged Improper Surgical Technique (Michigan)

Injury: Improper surgical technique, resulting in a severing of tendons in plaintiff's big toe, deformation, pain and suffering and the need for future surgery.

Facts: A podiatrist was sued by a patient who claimed the doctor performed improper foot surgery that resulted in a deformity. The defendant denied liability. The case went to an Oakland County jury, who found for the defendant. Plaintiff Patricia Starr underwent elective bunion surgery. The procedure was performed by defendant podiatrist.

Plaintiff alleged that defendant's surgical technique was improper and defendant severed tendons in her big toe, which she said caused it to point outward toward her other toes. She claimed another surgery would be required to straighten her toe. Plaintiff sought damages for...

Editor's note: The complete reporter can be read here.

Result: Defense verdict ($0)

Plaintiff's Expert: Barry Bean, DPM - Detroit, MI
Defendant's Expert: Kevan Kreitman, DPM - Roseville, MI

HHS Touts Anti-fraud Efforts in Midyear Report

In a report to Congress, HHS Inspector General Daniel Levinson said officials in his office expect to recover $1.2 billion from audits and investigations reported during the first half of 2012.

The 114-page report (PDF) says the tally for half a year's work includes the expected collection of $748 million from investigations and $483 million from audits. The office also filed 346 new criminal cases and 138 civil actions between October 2011 and March 2012 against people or companies accused of healthcare offenses against HHS.

Source: Joe Carlson, Modern Healthcare [5/29/12]

Add Images for Impact

Don’t rely on words alone when you want patients to pay attention to your message. Pictures increase the likelihood that they will read, understand and act on your instructions. A study that compared different forms of instructions given to emergency room patients shows the powerful impact pictures have. One set of patients received written instructions only, and another set received the same instructions accompanied by cartoon drawings. The people who received instructions with images:

•  Were more likely to read the instructions, 98% compared to 79% who received only text.
•  Understood better. When they were asked questions about the instructions, more than 45% received perfect scores. Just 6% of patients who received text only answered every question correctly.
•  Complied with directions. Only half of the text-only group followed the directions for daily wound care, compared to three-quarters of the group that had images too.

Source:  Adapted from “See What I Mean,” Ann Wylie, Wylie Communications Inc. via Communication Brieifings

RE: Down's Syndrome Complication (Brad Shollenberger, DPM)
From: Bob Hatcher, DPM

Individuals with DS often have concomitant mild to even severe autistic features. It might be worth considering that this child does the irritation herself through self-stimulation –a prominent feature of autism – and then develops the symptoms rather than the reverse. If you think so, perhaps a neurologist referral might be in order. Try to find one with autism experience. We have had some success with medication.

Bob Hatcher, DPM, Raleigh, NC, boboffice@nc.rr.com

RE: Unethical Behavior by Foot Solutions (Lawrence Rubin, DPM)
From: Jack A. Reingold, DPM

I agree that each store must be judged individually, as they are franchises and are individually owned. However, my experiences with Foot Solutions, the Good Foot Store, and several running specialty stores have been similar. We may be to blame for this. As our training has increased and we are now part of the department of surgery at every hospital, many of us no longer have the desire or the knowledge to be the expert in “orthotic therapy.” 

In addition to this, our institutions, which were graduating 700 plus students a year during the 1980s, have only been graduating 400-500 this past decade. These factors, along with population increases and epidemic obesity, have resulted in an increased need for foot care that we have been unable to meet. In my area, where it is very economically competitive in healthcare, I have seen many chiropractors in the paper claim that they are foot experts. As I tell my residents, “everyone wants a piece of the foot.” The only thing we can do is to be the best at foot/ankle care every day.

Jack A. Reingold, DPM, Solana Beach, CA, footdoc@san.rr.com

RE: Unethical Behavior By Foot Solutions (Peter Mason, DPM)
From: Geroge Jacobson, DPM

I have kept an advertisement from them for plantar fasciitis and heel pain. It boasts that for $549 you'll get a package which includes "Custom Accomodative Shoe Inserts That Support Your Arch", "A pair of MBTs or Chung Shi Lifestyle Shoes Designed to Gently Caress the Plantar Facia and Relieve Pressure and Discomfort at the Heel", and "An Over The Counter Orthotic For Your Dress Shoes." 

Foot Solutions Ad

Imagine all three for $549. Wow what a deal! I keep the advertisement in my office with my heading of "Why Waste Your Money?"  
 
Geroge Jacobson, DPM, Hollywood, FL, fl1sun@msn.com

RE: Nail Polish Can Mask Diseases: DC Podiatrist (Gino Scartozzi, DPM)
From: Janet McCormick, MS

I did not say that acrylics can distort clinical integrity of nails by creating fissures and splits in the nails which predispose these crevices to opportunistic fungal colonization/infections in the future. It is not the acrylic; it is the nail technicians who apply them that cause the fissures and splits, those who are improperly taught to "prep" the nails (fingers or toes) by "etching" the nail plate with an emery board prior to the application of acrylic. All the cheap salons do this to make the illegal MMA product they use adhere to the nails. Then, there are the nail technicians who use poor or no cleanse of implements and there is a perfect storm for infection, even some that are much more serious than onychomycosis.

Also, I do agree that DARK polishes on the nails for long duration can mask infections, but I must add that lighter colors and french polish techniques draw attention to changes and do not mask them. I do feel most women (and men) who wear polish remove...

Editor's note: Ms. McCormick's extended-length letter can be read here.

LOCUM TENENS - TEXAS STATEWIDE

It is that time of year, and you want to go on vacation, but can't or won't leave your practice, I can help. Please contact me at: netexasl@gmail.com I will forward a CV.

GREAT OFFICE STAFF FOR HIRE - SOUTH JERSEY

Very experienced office staff needs jobs. Office is closing and they are experienced people to hire in South Jersey. E-mail for CV and or what you are looking for They know podiatry and are both certified podiatric medical assistants. They do billing, scheduling, chairside, and much more Footcare@comcast.net

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

Retiring from practice. Equipment For sale. Mini x-ray. One year old Ultrasound with MS arterial/venous X-ray plates. Great condition Ritter chairs. Drills, surgical tools. So much. Just ask, I probably have it:Footcare@comcast.net

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: AUTOMATIC X-RAY PROCESSOR

ALLPRO 2010, 4 years old, good working order. Pick up from NYC preferable. $1,200 Contact:DOC4FOOT@aol.com

OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE - NYC

This is a great opportunity to expand or establish a new practice. Fully furnished, large modern Podiatric office in an upscale doorman building on the east side. Fully equipped and Wi-Fi ready. (Rent includes electricity and supplies). Available immediately for full or part time occupancy. Save up to $100,000 in initial costs and avoid any start-up mistakes. Email podofficenyc@gmail.com for further information. Price is considerably below market value. Confidentiality will be strictly upheld.

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

IMMEDIATE PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY - LONG ISLAND, NY

Established well-rounded practice looking to turn part-time practice into full-time. Located in sports complex with physical therapy and sports club. Graduating residents and experienced podiatrists may apply. Please email queries to podiatrypartnership@gmail.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 - BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

Established 40+ year old well-rounded practice of both surgical and non-surgical care with special emphasis on sports medicine. Medicare and BS/private insurance base, no Medical assistance. Needs to transition to a confident well trained individual. Purchase can include building. Contact:podiatrypracticesale@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - BEAUTIFUL LONG ISLAND
 
Business-oriented, mature Board eligible/certified podiatrist who is not just looking for a job, but a secure future. Buy-out of practice will be available. Practice does in excess of $500K. 2 hospitals available. No nursing homes, no Medicaid. Competitive package. Please fax CV to 631-581-0857
 

ASSOCIATE POSITION - YORK, PA

Three-office practice with hospital, surgical center & nursing home privileges. EMR since 2000. Digital x-ray, ultrasound, progressive practice. Competitive salary and benefits offered. Practice offers good mix of surgery, wound care, and general podiatry. Open to associate with potential future buy-in. Please forward your information and CV to footdocpa@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA

Looking to hire an associate who is caring, friendly, and holds a patient in the highest regard. I am a single practitioner with a large podiatry practice in Tampa, FL. Will provide an outstanding salary with additional incentives, excellent healthcare benefits, retirement and cell phone. Please email resume to: Heliodiety@aol.com or fax to 813-854-6105.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK

WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER. Join a modern, well-established 42-year-old podiatric medical/surgical practice within a multi-specialty office. Located just 20 minutes from NYC. Must be responsible, compassionate, driven, and self-starter. Enjoy cross-referrals from other specialists and support of medical assistants, office managers, and medical billers with over 50 years combined experience. Utilize modern technology: state-of-the-art diagnostic ultrasonography, fluoroscopy, ESWT (machine is owned by practice), physical therapy, x-ray, circulation testing, NCV, and in-office operatory suite. Very strong and effective advertising/marketing program. No nursing homes, No HMOs, No Medicaid, No Medicare. Must be licensed for podiatry in New York. Send cover letter/CV to: linchpindpm@yahoo.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 CV to: drhprosen@verizon.netor fax to 410-486-2049 or call Dr. Herbert Rosen at 410-580-0255.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL FLORIDA

Busy, two office group practice seeking a full-time, self motivated and hard working podiatry associate. Good mixture of general podiatry and surgery. Applicant should be PMS 36/Board Qualified/Certified. Competitive salary and benefits are offered. Please email CV to: toesrus7@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NYC

Full and part-time opportunity available in 40 year old practice in downtown Brooklyn. State-of-the-art office with EMR and digital x-rays. Must be experienced, highly motivated with good clinical skills. Competitive salary. Possible buy-in opportunity available. please email resume to dpm10019@yahoo.com

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 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

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. Surgical residency 24month+. Outstanding opportunity, work environment, and recreational pursuits. Fax CV to 907-562-5195, please call 907-562-4958, e-mail us at contactus@alaskapodiatry.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW JERSEY

Immediate opening for a full-time podiatrist in a rapidly expanding multi-office practice in central New Jersey. Well established referral base with full admitting hospital privileges. Availability to become part owner of a multi-room, multi-specialty ASC. Excellent opportunity for the right doctor with potential to achieve $200K in the first year. Wonderful working conditions. Applicant must have at least PSR-24 surgical training. Valid NJ license and Medicare number is required. Applicant should also be familiar and competent in biomechanics, trauma, ESWT, PRP, wound care, and ultrasound diagnostics. Participating insurance #'s a plus. Please fax resume to: (609) 259-6637.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ILLINOIS

Full and Part-time opportunity to provide conservative, ethical podiatric care to residents in long-term care throughout Illinois . Full time position includes health, disability, 401, auto/travel expenses. Ideal Full-time candidate would be willing to travel 2-3 days per month, or be located in central or downstate IL. We have a 30 year history of providing exceptional care and service, with appropriate reimbursement. Please email queries or resumes to: gh@podiatryplus.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WORCESTER MASSACHUSETTS

Podiatry practice in Worcester Massachusetts is looking for an associate podiatrist. Busy 2-person practice. High surgical numbers. No nursing homes. Call to hear free recorded message for more information. Call 641.715.3800 Access Code 32299 and message 4 to learn about the practice. Visit our website www.centralmasspodiatry.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – VIRGINIA

Two office practice, hospital and surgery center privileges, trauma call, modern offices, EHR, digital x-rays. Excellent compensation package. Position may lead to partnership. Candidate needs to be experienced in foot and ankle reconstruction and trauma. Email letter of interest and CV to Dr. Joe Disabato at jdisabato@vfasa.com

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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