The Voice of Podiatrists

Serving Over 13,500 Podiatrists Daily

December 21, 2011 #4,337 Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD

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From Podiatry Management and PM News

TN Podiatrist is Now a Fit Feet Clinical Director of the Special Olympics

Dr. David J. Sables, a podiatrist with ArchMasters-Orthotics, Shoes & Footcare of Brentwood, has received his training at the Yawkey Special Olympic Training Center in Boston and is now a Fit Feet Clinical Director of the Healthy Athletes Program of the Special Olympics. 

Dr. David Sables

Dr. Sables is Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Orthopedics, Foot Surgery, and Pedorthics by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, the American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics and Primary Podiatric Medicine, and the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, respectively.

Source: The Tennessean [12/18/11]

AL Podiatrist Invents Magnetic Heel Strike Reduction Boots

Shock absorption. Heel strike reduction. It’s something sought after by long-distance hikers and runners worldwide. It’s also something to which podiatrist Dr. Jeff Brown has dedicated his life. It’s an idea that sounds both futuristic and insane. Yet two decades ago, Brown decided to implant powerful magnets in boot heels as a way to reduce heel strike. He believes this technology will keep soldiers on their feet for longer periods with less physical strain. 

Dr. Jeff Brown and his magnetic heel boots.

Brown said his prototype - DAMPS Technology Smart Boots - have been tested during combat by Special Operation Forces in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. "In a proprietary advanced suspension/propulsion design, the like poles of DAMPS super-magnets repel each other. These magnets are 30 times more powerful than your typical refrigerator magnets. That means soldiers are walking on the magnet polarity field created by these super magnets. The result? Heel strike is reduced by over 68 percent," says Brown.

Source: Jeanette Kozlowski, Military Boot News [12/30/11]

The Tetra Corporation Announces New President

The Tetra Corporation, manufacturer of Formula 3® Antifungal, has announced that effective immediately, George A. Cioe is the company’s president and CEO. Mr. Cioe has been involved with The Tetra Corporation since its formation and has served as the organization’s corporate executive vice president.

George A. Cioe

Cioe has been instrumental in developing relationships with medical professionals nationwide, and leads the company’s research, development, marketing and training teams. The Tetra Corporation founder, Dr. Paul J. DiMeglio, President/CEO was killed tragically in a vehicle accident on Nov. 12, 2011.

Source: APMA News Brief

OH Podiatrist Published in Journal of Ankle & Foot Surgery

Dr. Gary Unsdorfer, of Medina, Ohio, published an original research study in the current Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery on a surgical technique to correct multiplanar deformities of the second toe. The study evaluated surgery to correct both the sagittal and transverse plane deformities of the second toe. The surgical techniques included a proximal phalangeal osteotomy combined with a PIPJ arthodesis, with soft tissue releases. No tendon transfer or plantar plate repairs were performed.

Dr. Gary Unsdorfer

A total of 16 patients, encompassing 20 second toe reconstructions were operated on between 2003 and 2010. The results yielded statistically significant reduction in VAS pain levels, and improvement in toe function using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle clinical grading scale. Subjectively, 85% of the patients were satisfied with their outcomes and would recommend the procedure to a friend.

Query: Holiday Letter to Referring Physicians

Can someone provide a copy of a holiday greetings letter which thanks  referring docs and lists a mission statement.

Frank DiPalma, DPM, Athens GA

RE: Orthotic Therapy For Hallux Rigidus (John School, DPM)
From: Joe Reynolds, DPM, Karim A. Badawy, DPM

Have you tried the "Cluffy Wedge"?  Sometimes reducing the range of motion helps.

Joe Reynolds, DPM, Visalia, CA,  joevisalia@gmail.com

From Dr. Scholl's description, it would appear that your patient has severe limited ROM accompanied with pain. Conservatively, the way to go would be to build a CFO with a Morton's extension modification. This will prevent dorsiflexion and excessive ROM of the MPJ to limit the patient's pain as much as possible. It would also help if the CFO would be accurately rearfoot/forefoot posted (begin with the patient's own STJ ROM), has a deep heal seat (15-25 mm), and perhaps a heel lift to address a possible/associated equinus.

A kinetic wedge/first ray cutout would be contraindicated here since the joint needs to have sufficient ROM (these will induce plantarflexion & eversion of the 1st ray). All too often you find patients presenting with hallux rigidus seeking a second opinion, and their CFOs have one of these modifications. They are useless when there is no ROM in the MPJ. Another modality that you can combine this with would be a shoe that has a forefoot rocker incorporated into it, making the shoe do the dorsiflexion work for the patient.

Karim A. Badawy, DPM, Astoria, NY Kbadawy@nycpm.edu)

RE: Chronic Diabetic Ulcer (Kel Sherkin, DPM)
From: Thomas A. Graziano, DPM, MD, Marc Katz, DPM

Due to the chronicity of the ulceration and immune-comprised status of your Type I diabetic patient, it would be prudent to first biopsy this ulcer. The prevalence of malignant melanoma in the foot has increased exponentially over the past 20 years, and one should always consider this in your differential. You would not want to miss the diagnosis, as it will come back to bite you later. Once any malignancy has been ruled out, determine the biomechanical reason as to why the patient has increased pressure in the area. 

Is there a large exostosis or does the patient have hallux rigidus? If off-loading has been ineffective, and assuming her vascular status is adequate, then consider ostectomy/arthroplasty at the IPJ or Keller arthroplasty, respectively. A hallux amputation would be an acceptable option as well. Your decision will be easier to make after you obtain the results of your biopsy.

Thomas A. Graziano, DPM, MD, Clifton, NJ, TGrazi6236@aol.com

I believe that this patient needs a thorough vascular work-up. Also, exclude osteomyelitis with an MRI. Have cultures been obtained? If all is well from a vascular standpoint, then extensive debridement is required and, if there is osteomyelitis, bone will need to be removed. Cultures should be taken at that time as well. I recommend tissue cultures. Continue off-loading, debridement, and you need to consider advanced modalities such as Apligraf. So, you will likely need to involve vascular and infectious disease specialists, depending on results. You should then start to see some progress.

Marc Katz,  DPM, Tampa, FL, dr_mkatz@yahoo.com

RE: Study Guides for ABPS Recertification Exam (Bob Kuvent, DPM)
From: Ann Miller, RN, MHA

Dr. Kuvent may want to consider Podiatry Board Preparation Software (podiatryprep.com)

Disclosure: We produce and sell this software.

Ann Miller, RN, MHA, Institute of Medical Business Advisors, Inc. marcinkoadvisors@msn.com

RE: Concierge Medical Care on Demand (Eric Edelman, DPM)
From: Robert Kornfeld, DPM

Dr. Edelman's sarcasm regarding concierge medicine is understandable, but in my mind misses the critical point of why concierge medicine exists in the first place. Does shrinking income and increased costs ring a bell? Yes, we are doctors, but anyone who thinks he/she is not running a business that relies on covering expenses and making sufficient profit to make it all worthwhile, is missing the forest for the trees. I applaud doctors whose creative thinking is enabling them to survive and prosper in this extremely challenging medical climate.

Why is it so easy for us to look at a Steve Jobs or a Warren Buffet and marvel at the success and billions, but every time we hear of a doctor who has been able to make an amazing living in spite of all the challenges, we are so quick to criticize. Dr. Edelman, don't kid yourself into thinking that the "system" will come along and fix what is wrong. That simply will not happen. You must be proactive on your own behalf, just as these physicians have been. I think it is a sorry state of affairs when everyone celebrates because Medicare is not going to make any cuts in fees while they ignore the fact that their cooperation with the system allows their "frozen" fees to dwindle in the light of inflation. A freeze is actually a cut. Plain and simple. Nothing to celebrate there.
 
Robert Kornfeld, DPM, Manhasset, NY, Holfoot153@aol.com

RE: Standard of Care - Neuromas (Donald Brann, DPM)
From: Ed Davis, DPM

Dr. Brann requested evidence for Dr. Rosenblatt's suggestion that alcohol-based neuroma injections performed via sonographic guidance may be superior to unguided steroid injections. We have discussed the virtues and pitfalls of evidence-based medicine (EBM) frequently on this forum, and posters are not routinely asked or expected to provide reference lists or bibliographies. Here are some references:

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2504098/
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18510900
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17515373

The first two discuss sonographic guidance of neuroma injections using a more traditional steroid/local anesthetic "cocktail" and the third, using alcohol with a larger sample size. This is not meant to be an all-inclusive list.
 
Ed Davis, DPM, San Antonio, TX, ed@sanantoniodoc.net

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

PRACTICE FOR SALE – NANAIMO, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Have you ever dreamed of owning a practice where...you can see 0-50 patients daily * average 100 new patients monthly * have zero accounts receivable * gross $480K per year * live in a beautiful community with skiing, hiking, fishing, and boating on your doorstep. This could be yours! If interested contactpistone@telus.net or call 250-754-4192.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - SUPERPULSE 45 WATT PEAK POWER LASER (LUMIX2)

Superpulse 45 watt peak power Laser (lumix2) used once or twice. This is a real superpulse 910nw up to 100,000 HZ. Great Laser Used in the super bowl by the Green Bay Packer Why am I selling? I have too many lasers in my office now ( six) This is a great laser for plantar fasciitis. Achilles tendonitis. Lightweight portable. easy to use, fully programmable Sold to first person under $$12,000 You will NEVER get a laser like this at this price. Enjoy. it I just have too many lasers. David Zuckerman DPMfootcare@comcast.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - DAYTON, 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 - NEW JERSEY

Associate/Partnership available to energetic doctor(s) or willing to merge into larger group/multi-specialty practice. 25% Medicare, 75% Privates/HMOs, No Medicaid. 8,500 visits per year. Diversified  hospital/office wound care, hospital/ASC surgery, and general podiatry. 27 years of excellent local reputation. 2,700 sq ft office opposite hospital in desirable Monmouth County. capstops@aol.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - EAST TENNESSEE

30 year old practice with 5 offices in greater Knoxville area seeking ethical, personable, hardworking, team player. $160,000 base salary with bonus incentives and benefits. Post-residency experience a plus. Please send resume to ddavidphawk@yahoo.com  

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Immediate position for associate to partnership for a surgeon that is BQ/BC by ABPS. Must be a PSR-24 or PM&S-36 trained. Excellent start salary with bonus. Must be ethical, self-starter, hard worker, team player. Willingness to learn/work as part of a team. Great ancillaries & surgery facility. Must be proficient in rearfoot/ankle surgery. Email CV with letter of intent to: susmitad86@yahoo.com  

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TEXAS

Well established, expanding podiatric medical and surgical practice with multiple locations Northeast of Dallas, Texas. Modern offices with EHR, digital radiography, Padnet vascular studies and laser. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package for a motivated, ethical, personable and well trained PSR/36 or board equivalent. This individual will also assist managing the residency program. Send resume (CV)to northtexaspodiatry@yahoo.com along with a letter of intent.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - CENTRAL VALLEY/SOUTHERN CA
 
Seeking associate with partnership availability. Must be highly motivated and have good patient skills and personality. Salary excellent with all paid benefits/incentives including malpractice/401k and profit sharing. Compassionate and well-trained for immediate position. Surgery Center and hospital-based with no HMOs/no rest homes. Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred. Offering a permanent position/partnership in a multi-million dollar hi-tech practice with Partnership also in Surgery center. Please e-mail CV and short bio to: Tonya@wetreatyourfeet.com
 

ASSOCIATE POSITION - ALBANY/CAPITAL DISTRICT AREA

Immediate position available with generous salary, fringe benefits and percentage. All phases of Podiatry. For more information please contact Dawn at (518) 828-6516 or fax your resume to(518) 828-9510.

ASSOCIATE NEEDED - NORTHERN CINCINNATI, OHIO (FAIRFIELD)

Lead to partnership &/or buy practice. Well-established, reputable & successful (700K collection annual) 25+ year practice. Newer 2k sq.ft office condo & w/5 tx rooms, Aver.80 new patients monthly, full hospital privileges, DME, Padnet, digital x-rays. Inquires to email: gsherwood1@cinci.rr.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NAPLES, FLORIDA

Great opportunity for PSR- 24/36 BE/BC podiatrist with strong surgical skills to join multi-office practice. Hospital privileges available at 648 bed hospital system, 200 bed hospital system and multiple surgical centers. Candidate should have the skills and desire to perform rearfoot/ankle surgery. Florida has a great scope of practice law and we rotate for ER call. Candidate needs to be ethical and motivated. Established practitioner or new practitioner. In a cover letter tell me why you should be selected for the team. Email cover letter and CV with subject line "I am your new team member." toDrgordon@gulfcoastfootcare.com

ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH CAROLINA

Upstate practice seeking PSR-24/36 trained associate. Full-time position with  partnership opportunity. Must be ethical,  highly-motivated with strong surgical and medical skills. Please send CV topalpodiatry@att.net

ASSOCIATE POSITION - NEW MEXICO

Exciting opportunity for an associate in sunny Albuquerque, New Mexico. Please visit our website atFamilyFootTeam.com for all the details and how to apply.

ASSOCIATE POSITION - TEXAS

Practice in Houston is looking for PSR 24/36, BE/BC trained doctor. We are situated in an affluent area with a large medical community with EMR, diagnostic ultrasound, digital x-ray, multi use laser and our own surgery center. We seek a highly skilled surgeon, well-trained in trauma, wound care and rear foot reconstructive procedures willing to learn and incorporate into our “system.” Must be outgoing, goal-oriented, motivated and positive. Partnership available after successfully attaining the first year’s goals. Compensation includes excellent salary, health benefits, paid vacation and CMEs. Please send CV, references and letter of interest to faajobs@gmail.com

PM News Classified Ads Reach over 13,500 DPM's and Students

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