The training of a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) consists of four years of podiatric medical school, followed by three to four years of residency training specific to foot and ankle medicine and surgery. Some surgeons also pursue an additional 1-year fellowship in foot and ankle trauma, reconstruction, or diabetic limb salvage.

For many conditions, surgery is considered to be the last option when more conservative approaches fail to alleviate symptoms. Foot and ankle surgeons are trained to treat all disorders of the foot and ankle, both surgical and non-surgical. Additionally, our surgeons at Eagle-Summit are trained to understand the complex connections between disorders and deformities of the foot, ankle, knee, hip, and the spine.

Surgical Options

Podiatric foot and ankle surgeons are qualified and trained to treat cases that involve foot and ankle trauma, such as ankle fractures, calcaneus (heel bone) fractures, navicular and midfoot injuries, and metatarsal and phalangeal fractures. We treat soft tissue injuries such as lacerations, ligament tears, and tendon ruptures (including the Achilles, peroneal, and posterior tibial tendons). We also treat arthritis of the ankle joint and the joints of the hindfoot (tarsals), midfoot (metatarsals) and forefoot (phalanges). Congenital and acquired deformities that podiatric surgeons treat include adult-acquired flatfoot, diabetic foot disorders, bunions, hammertoes, and several common pediatric foot and ankle conditions, such as clubfoot, flat feet, and tarsal coalitions.

Conservative Care

The vast majority of foot and ankle conditions do not require surgical intervention. Many problems may be traced to a certain type of footwear or athletic activity. Changes in shoe selection, shoe and ski boot modifications, and education on proper training routines may provide significant relief. Use of ankle braces, foot padding, shoe modifications, and custom foot orthotics are prescribed for certain conditions. Anti-inflammatory medications and injection therapy can sometimes provide relief for some foot and ankle issues. Physical therapy may also be used to alleviate symptoms, strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and improve gait and balance.

If conservative care does not provide relief, though, our surgeons have the qualifications, training, and experience to surgically treat your foot or ankle condition!

Dr. Andrew Bernhard and Dr. Brian Maurer of Eagle-Summit Foot & Ankle in Frisco and Avon, Colorado are on the forefront of surgical advances in foot and ankle care. For more information contact Eagle-Summit Foot & Ankle or visit our website at www.esfootankle.com.