Your feet are the foundation of your active lifestyle. At the Great Falls Clinic, our Podiatry Department is dedicated to providing expert medical and surgical care for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. From chronic pain management to advanced reconstructive surgery, our specialists combine clinical excellence with a patient-centered approach to get you back on your feet.
Why Specialized Foot & Ankle Care Matters
The human foot is a complex structure involving 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. When one component is misaligned or injured, it can impact your knees, hips, and lower back. Our podiatrists work closely with the Great Falls Clinic Radiology and Orthopedics teams to provide a seamless transition from diagnosis to recovery.
Conditions We Treat
We treat patients of all ages, from pediatric developmental issues to geriatric foot care. Our expertise includes:
- Common Foot Ailments: Permanent solutions for ingrown toenails, fungal infections, warts, and painful corns or calluses.
- Structural Deformities: Expert correction of bunions (hallux valgus), hammertoes, and flat feet.
- Heel & Arch Pain: Comprehensive treatment for plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and fallen arches.
- Nerve Conditions: Diagnosis and relief for Neuromas (pinched nerves) and peripheral neuropathy.
Advanced Diabetic Foot Care & Wound Management
For patients living with diabetes, foot health is critical. Small blisters or cuts can quickly escalate into serious infections due to poor circulation or neuropathy. Our team provides:
- Routine diabetic foot exams and risk assessments.
- Advanced wound care and limb salvage procedures.
- Preventative education to help patients monitor their health at home.
Sports Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery
Whether you are a competitive athlete or a weekend warrior, foot and ankle injuries can be sidelined. We provide both conservative and surgical interventions for:
- Acute Injuries: Treatment for fractures, severe sprains, and Achilles tendon ruptures.
- Custom Orthotics: Referrals for high-quality, medical-grade inserts.
- Surgical Excellence: When conservative treatments fail, our podiatric surgeons perform minimally invasive and reconstructive procedures to restore function and reduce long-term pain.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
We believe in informed care. During your initial consultation, your podiatrist will perform a physical exam, review your medical history, and may utilize our on-site Radiology services for immediate imaging. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan, starting with the most conservative options first, to ensure the best possible outcome for your mobility.
Schedule a Consultation
Don’t let foot pain limit your life. Contact the Great Falls Clinic Podiatry Department today to schedule an appointment with our specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a referral to see a Podiatrist at Great Falls Clinic?
A: Yes, we require a referral to be seen. Please contact our office if you have additional questions.
Q: What is the difference between a Podiatrist and an Orthopedic Surgeon?
A: A Podiatrist (Doctor of Podiatric Medicine) is a specialist who focuses exclusively on the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. While orthopedic surgeons treat the entire musculoskeletal system, our podiatrists provide highly specialized medical and surgical care specifically tailored to the complex mechanics of the feet.
Q: When should I see a podiatrist for heel pain?
A: If you experience sharp pain in the morning, swelling, or pain that persists for more than a few days despite rest and ice, it is time to see a specialist. Chronic heel pain is often a sign of plantar fasciitis or a stress fracture, both of which respond best to early intervention.
Q: Does the Great Falls Clinic provide custom orthotics?
A: No, but we may provide a referral to a local vendor. Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are manufactured from professional-grade materials based on a precise mold or digital scan of your feet. These are designed to treat specific biomechanical issues, provide superior arch support, and alleviate pain caused by misalignment.
Q: Can podiatric surgery be performed on an outpatient basis?
A: Many modern podiatric procedures, such as bunion corrections, hammertoe repairs, and certain ligament surgeries, are performed as outpatient procedures. This allows you to recover in the comfort of your own home the same day as your surgery.
Q: How often should diabetic patients have their feet checked?
A: We recommend that patients with diabetes have a comprehensive foot exam at least once a year. However, if you have a history of foot ulcers, neuropathy, or poor circulation, our specialists may recommend more frequent check-ups to prevent complications.
