The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

August 13, 2012 #4,538 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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DC Podiatrist Discusses Osteoarthritis of Feet

Though experts don't know how many people have OA of the big toe, they agree it is more common as we pass the half-century mark. "Because you push off the big toe with every step, it gets lots of wear and tear," explains Erika Schwartz, DPM, a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association. As the joint's cartilage wears down, it may feel stiff or hurt when you walk, a condition dubbed hallux limitus.

Dr. Erika Schwartz

Eventually, the joint may stop moving altogether--a painful condition called hallux rigidus. Some people also develop an overgrowth of bone, or a bone spur, on top of the joint, which many patients mistake for a bunion.

Source: Catherine Winters, Prevention Magazine [8/10/12]

KSUCPM Holds Ribbon Tying Ceremony

Kent State University hosted a symbolic ribbon-tying event on Wednesday, August 8th to celebrate the establishment of the new Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine, formerly known as the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine. Faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends of the university and the new college, as well as local officials and media representatives attended the event.

(L-R) Dr. Steven Berlin, former chair of the board of the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine; Dr. Thomas Melillo, CEO of the Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine; Dr. Lester A. Lefton, president of Kent State University; and Jacqueline Wood, chair of the Kent State University Board of Trustees tie a ribbon signifying the joining of the two institutions.

As opposed to a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the event was a ribbon tying, signifying the two institutions – Kent State and the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine – coming together to become the Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine. The event began with opening remarks, followed immediately by a luncheon reception and facility tours.

Canadian Podiatrist Discusses Onychomycosis

Toenail fungus can cause athlete’s foot — and vice versa — because they cross-contaminate each other. People who have sustained foot trauma are also more prone to foot fungus. “You can contract it in gyms and in standing water. You can get it through pedicures. A lot of those places aren’t regulated when it comes to sterilizing equipment,” says Dr. David Greenberg.

Dr. David Greenberg

“It’s more common than people realize. I have seen people who have had it for 40 years. I have seen people who have had it for two months.” Treating toenail fungus is not a matter of covering it up with nail polish and hoping it will go away. “It’s important that women know not to cover it up with nail polish. That creates a dark environment for the fungus to fester.”

Source: Joanne Laucius, The Ottawa Citizen [8/10/12]

Most Barefoot Injuries a Result of Too Much Enthusiasm: MN Podiatrist

While the ranks of people running barefoot or in "barefoot running shoes" have grown in recent years, they still represent the minority of runners. Some devotees swear they are less prone to injuries after kicking off their athletic shoes, though there's no evidence that barefoot runners suffer fewer problems. In some cases, foot specialists are noticing injuries arising from the switch to barefoot, which uses different muscles.

Dr. Paul Langer

Podiatrist Dr. Paul Langer used to see one or two barefoot running injuries a month at his Twin Cities Orthopedics practice in Minneapolis. Now he treats between three and four a week. "Most just jumped in a little too enthusiastically," said Langer, an experienced runner and triathlete who trains in his barefoot running shoes part of the week.

Source:  Alicia Chang, Winnepeg Free Press [8/8/12]

STJ Contributes Orthotics to Olympic Athletes

STJ Orthotic Services, Inc. has announced its contribution to the elite athletes of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London. Under the direction of Drs. James A. DeFrancisco and Steven Levitz, STJ is a leading international orthotic laboratory with U.S. locations in California and New York.

Dr. Steven Levitz

STJ has provided custom foot orthotics to over 19 Olympic athletes representing 5 different nations. The athletes have been, and will be, competing for their respective countries while wearing STJ custom orthotics. Moreover, half of these athletes are serious gold medal contenders.

Query: Verruca Treatment in an Immunocompromised Patient

My patient is a 53 year old man who has a recalcitrant verruca on the right 4th toe for over 3 years' duration. The lesion size is 1 x .5 cm. His PMH is significant for h/o Hep. C and liver cirrhosis, s/p liver transplant, and chronic renal disease. He is on amlodopine, cellcept, cyclosporine, epivir, staxyn, and valacyclovir.  

The verruca is not responding to topical salicylic acid 60% or Aldara 5% with periodic debridement. Cimetidine 400 tid (renal adjusted dosing) has not helped. I tried a verruca implantation method once, which helped to reduce the size by 20% initially, but gradually the lesion grows back to the same size. The patient declined surgical excision because he could not take any time off from work. I would appreciate any comments regarding  experience treating immunocompromised patients.

Catherine Wu, DPM, Revere, MA

Query: Virtual Saving of EMR Data?

I believe there is a way to save online EHR charts without printing them on paper. Why not use a virtual printer? Is the Microsoft xps document writer or any PDF virtual printer being used by anyone to save EHR charts on one's hard drive in case the EHR company is not able to give a podiatrist access to the online charts, and the information is needed right away?

Daniel Chaskin, DPM, Ridgewood, NY

RE: Partial Thickness Torn Ligaments (Ivar E. Roth DPM, MPH)
From: Donald R. Blum, DPM

Go to YouTube and search for "Repair of Plantar Plate (Weil)". There are wonderful videos on the surgical repair technique for this diagnosis.  Also, contact your Arthrex representative. They have the protocol and instrumentation for the procedure.
 
Donald R. Blum, DPM, JD, Dallas, TX, donrblum@sbcglobal.net

RE: Painful Bunion and Hammertoe (Mario Dickens, DPM)
From: Richard Gosnay, DPM

I completely agree with Dr. Sullivan's opinion that we need more information in order to conclusively propose a solution to this case. Information that we must know include the patient's medical history and med list, the active patient's goals and expectations with respect to activities and shoes, the patient's ability to go non-weight-bearing if necessary, possible hypermobility of the 1st metatarsal-cuneiform joint, possible pain at the site of plantar plate ruptures, possible 1st metatarsal elevatus, possible equinus, and any other gross foot deformity.

But we do know several important facts regarding this case. The A/P view shows...

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

RE: Sending Data for CMS Incentive (F. Don Chantiles, DPM)
From:  Myron Bergman, DPM

I use a company called 1st For Physicians. They are experts in the McKessen  products. If they can't get your data, it's probably not retrievable. I am not an owner or partner in the company.  I pay them a fee for their IT services. 

Myron Bergman, DPM, Bridgewater, NJ, mbergmandpm@aol.com

RE: 3-WEA Antiseptic (Theresa Hughes, DPM)
From: Robert Eells, DPM

In my recent post in which I recommended Dreft as a substitute for 3-WEA, I gave mixing directions that need correction. My assistant says she mixes 1/4 teaspoon Dreft with 6-8 oz. water. 

Robert Eells, DPM, Des Moines, IA, rgeells@gmail.com

RE: Falls Prevented With Novel Exercise Program for Older People
From: Robert Creighton, DPM

In light of my comment to Dr. Levy’s post last week, in which I mentioned the public health role of our profession in facilitating exercise-movement for the elderly as a means for reducing falls and maintaining independence into senior years, it was good to see PM News' August 11 edition noting the just published  study looking at a “lifestyle integrated approach to balance and strength training…in reducing the rate of falls in older, high risk people living at home.” Clemson L, et al. Integration of balance and strength training into daily life activity to reduce rate of falls in older people (the LiFE study): randomized parallel trial. BMJ 2012 Aug 7, 2012.

The researchers found that functional based exercise was effective in not only reducing falls, but also for “increased energy to do more tasks, improved function during activities, and enhanced participation in daily life.” While knee and hip strength did not improve relative to the control, ankle strength was significantly improved - Better Ankles Better Life. The entire study is available online with the lifestyle exercises used in the study. I regularly mention lower extremity strength, balance, and the resultant improved capability for independent living, while providing palliative care to the large demographic of senior citizens where I practice. It is interesting to see how often a formerly semi-somnolent patient can suddenly perk up and intently focus on what I am saying. 

Robert Creighton, DPM, St. Petersburg, FL, rcreightonjr@hotmail.com

MRACTICE 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

PRACTICE FOR SALE - SOUTHWEST FL

multilocation multidoctor practice in beautiful Southwest Florida . Practice has grossed over seven figures consistently and currently shows 10-15% growth in revenues with increase in new patients and patient visits. EHR is already implemented with meaningful use criteria met. Practice has been professionally evaluated by Provider Resources. Only serious inquiries to this email address. This is a great practice in Paradise and a good opportunity for the right doctor or doctors. Email to: practiceforsaleswfla@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

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NORTHERN CALIFORNIA/BAY AREA

We’re looking for someone entrepreneurial who can help grow our practice. Must have great people skills, clinical/surgical skills, and positive demeanor. California license required. Send your CV and cover letter to cvpodiatrist@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW YORK CITY & QUEENS

High Income Potential. One of the fastest growing podiatry practices in New York City and Queens seeks a hard-working podiatrist who participates with HealthFirst, Fidelis, and other Medicaid plans. Contact me at:  podocare123@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WEST COAST FLORIDA

Outstanding opportunity for PSR-36 graduate to join successful group podiatry practice. Seeking a sociable, articulate graduate who is confident in foot and ankle surgery but also enjoys all phases of podiatry. Long-term opportunity for the right candidate with generous pay and benefits. Reply to: jwicks@cortezfootandankle.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SEATTLE, WA AREA

A well-established, solo-physician practice seeking a Full-Time Associate Podiatrist. Applicant should be: well trained physician, personable and motivated individual with sound surgical skills. Applicant must have completed a 24-36 month residency. Practice offers a state-of-the-art practice setting, with a good general mix of all aspects of podiatric medicine and surgery. Competitive salary and benefits. Partnership opportunities available. E-mail your letter of interest with resume to: seattlefootdoctor@yahoo.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – NEW YORK

Great opportunity to share “state-of-the-art” offices and equipment in mid-town Manhattan and White Plains with Board Certified podiatrist. Out-of-network or participating providers welcome. Please call 212-704-4310 for additional information and fax your CV to 212-704-4311.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - LOUISVILLE, KY

Immediate position for established practice in excellent location with option to buy. All phases of podiatry with good mix of patients. Two local residency programs with foot and ankle and trauma privileges. Office has EMR qualifying for meaningful use in the first year. PADnet vascular testing. Send resume to: samuel10530@yahoo.com.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NORTHERN, NJ

Part-time or-full time. This position can and will lead to purchase of practice if so desired. Well-equipped modern office. Digital x-ray, ultrasound, etc. Individual must be well-trained and be ABPS Qualified/Certified. Must be competent in general foot care and be able to do routine foot surgery without help. Call: 201-986-1900.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - WASHINGTON, DC

Prominent two office (3 practitioner) podiatric medical group seeking well rounded, personable individual with good medical and surgical skills. Must be 24/36 month trained, board qualified or certified foot and ankle surgeon. Salary with benefits package. Serious inquiries to ponyrunner66@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

Exciting Opportunity! Associate position. Must be Board Qualified. Joining all Board Certified Doctors in foot surgery and reconstructive rear-foot and ankle surgery. Respond to:Podiatryoffice@doctor.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - MANHATTAN

Part-time associate position making home visits in Manhattan. Email: drmstempler@verizon.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW JERSEY

Can you handle a challenge? Associate wanted for amazingly busy practice. Must be enthusiastic, outgoing, and surgically trained, but conservatively minded. We have a wonderful environment, great team plus great pay in Oradell, Bergen County, NJ. Full-time, some evenings and Saturdays. Call 201-261-9445 or fax resume to 201- 261-0058.

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 - YONKERS, NY

Immediate part-time associate position now available. Appx: 3 1/2 days per week with room to grow. Practice is a good balance of all aspects of podiatric foot care, including surgery. Perfect opportunity for new graduate, or experienced podiatrist. Looking for the right person to transition into vacancy that will be left by current associate leaving the area and you will have an immediate, full schedule of patients. Over 25 year well-established practice with large referral base, and both hospital and surgery center privileges available. Interested persons please forward CV and brief summary of surgical log to: Podiodoc@gmail.com   914.584.1434

ASSOCIATE POSITION - OHIO

Ohio practice with excellent reputation and patient base seeks to hire a Podiatric Surgeon. The offices are state of the art including Digital X-Ray, EMR, Diagnostic ultrasound, Padnet Vascular Testing, CO- 2 Lasers all aspects of DME. The base salary is $120,000 with a bonus structure and benefits also would like to have this individual buy into the practice eventually. Please send CV to: Ohiopodiatrist@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION – BROOKLYN, NY

Full-time position available with excellent salary in a state-of-art-office. Please email your resume to: irenefootcare@gmail.com

EQUIPMENT WANTED - MUSCULAR SKELETAL ULTRASOUND MACHINE

We are looking to buy a used muscular skeletal ultrasound machine. Please contact me atrmattsson@flfootandankle.com or call (863) 299-4551 ext 170.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - PINPOINTE LASER

PinPointe Laser for sale. All accessories included. In service since 2008. Service policy in place, fully transferable. $35,000. tatarb@verizon.net.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - PADNET

Rarely used- excellent condition. Padnet for sale. Asking $10,000. Contact us at 516-220-8258.

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 - USED PODIATRIC LASERS

Great price, great outcome. Stop wasting money on expense lasers. Personally owned and used few hours in my office,. 10 and 30 watts lasers. Two handpieces in one. First one for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, arthritis, pain, inflammation. 2nd handpiece for surgical ablation and fungus toenail conditions. Portable fast and very cost-effective: footcare@comcast.net

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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