Today’s Podiatrist: Operate Like a DPM

As a foot and ankle expert, Today’s Podiatrist is in a unique position to provide surgical intervention or conservative care to treat foot and ankle conditions. Simply put, no condition is too big or too small and no treatment is too complex for Today’s Podiatrist.

So, what does the phrase “Operate Like a DPM” mean to Today’s Podiatrist? It’s a way of practicing that puts the patient and his or her needs and individual concerns first. Today’s Podiatrist has the singular goal of getting patients back on their feet—and is the right physician and surgeon to accomplish that goal.

“When your foot or ankle hurts, it’s time to see Today’s Podiatrist,” said Jeff Merrill, DPM, a podiatrist at Klamath Falls Foot and Ankle, LLC and member of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). “Patients should understand that foot pain is never normal and waiting to seek treatment may complicate your condition.”

Podiatrists may treat your condition with conservative care, such as orthotics or physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be the most appropriate treatment to alleviate discomfort or restore the function of your foot, and Today’s Podiatrist has the necessary education and training to perform this surgery. Individual factors determine the length and kind of rehabilitation required to ensure a successful recovery.

Today’s Podiatrists treat common conditions such as:
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• Hammertoes: A bending at the first joint of the toe. Surgical techniques will realign the bones of the toe.
• Neuromas: Characterized by burning pain, tingling, or numbness between the toes and in the ball of the foot. Surgery is performed on soft tissue and has a shorter recovery time than bone procedures.
• Bunions: A lump on the side of the big toe formed when the bone or tissue at the joint moves out of place. Your podiatrist will evaluate your condition individually to determine the best treatment. Surgical treatment realigns the bones.
• Ulcers: Open sores or wounds on the bottom of the foot that can lead to serious infection. Surgical options vary but can save limbs and lives.
• Achilles Tendon Tears: Athletes are at higher risk. Today’s Podiatrists can lengthen, shorten, or reroute the tendon to improve foot function.
• Fractures: A break in the bone. In some cases, realigning the bones holds them in place for proper healing.

​“Today’s Podiatrist truly does it all,” Dr. Merrill says. “The needs of our patients are our top priority. Together, we explore all approaches to keep our patients active.”

To find a podiatrist near you, visit www.apma.org/findapodiatrist.

Jeff Merrill, DPM, is a podiatrist at Klamath Falls Foot and Ankle, LLC in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Call 541-850-6463 or visit https://www.klamathfallsfootandankle.com/ to make an appointment. Visit www.apma.org to learn more about foot health and care.