Best Podiatrists in Shreveport
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Podiatry in Shreveport
Definition and scope of podiatry
Podiatry is a branch of medicine dedicated to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower extremity. In Shreveport, podiatrists play a significant role in maintaining the foot health of the local population.
Podiatrists in Shreveport treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to heel pain, arch problems, bunions, ingrown toenails, and diabetic foot care. They also specialize in podiatric surgery and foot & ankle surgery, as evidenced by the specialties of several local practitioners.
Importance of podiatric care
Proper foot care is essential for maintaining overall health and quality of life. Foot problems can affect mobility, balance, and even posture, potentially leading to issues in other parts of the body.
Foot and ankle issues are surprisingly common, affecting people of all ages. Regular podiatric care can help prevent minor issues from becoming major problems and ensure that existing conditions are managed effectively.
Overview of podiatric services in Shreveport
Shreveport boasts a diverse range of podiatric professionals, offering comprehensive foot and ankle care to its residents. From the data provided, we can see that there are at least seven podiatrists practicing in the area, each bringing their unique expertise to the field.
Many Shreveport podiatrists offer specialized services beyond general foot care. For instance, Dr. Frederick Hall, Dr. Evetta Borden, and Dr. Laurence Welker all specialize in podiatric surgery and podiatric foot & ankle surgery, providing advanced treatment options for complex foot and ankle conditions.
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List of Podiatrists in Shreveport
Choosing a Podiatrist in Shreveport
Factors to consider when selecting a podiatrist
Qualifications and certifications
- Review educational background
- Check for board certifications in podiatry
Experience and specializations
- Consider years of practice
- Look for expertise in specific foot conditions
Hospital affiliations
- Examine connections with reputable local hospitals
- Consider the importance of hospital privileges for potential surgeries
Patient reviews and ratings
- Analyze star ratings from platforms like Healthgrades
- Read patient testimonials for insights into doctor-patient relationships
Resources for finding podiatrists in Shreveport
Online directories and review platforms
- Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
- Explore other medical review websites for additional information
Referrals from primary care physicians
- Consult your regular doctor for trusted recommendations
- Discuss your specific foot health needs for targeted referrals
Recommendations from friends and family
- Seek personal experiences from trusted individuals
- Consider the context of their foot health issues when evaluating recommendations
Top-Rated Podiatrists in Shreveport
Dr. Frederick Hall
Overview of Qualifications
- Specializes in Podiatry, Podiatric Surgery, and Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgery
- Affiliated with CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Medical Center-Marshall and Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport
- Excellent patient rating of 5.0 stars
Dr. Evetta Borden
Professional Background
- Graduated from Drexel University College of Medicine
- Specializes in Podiatry, Podiatric Surgery, and Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgery
- Affiliated with Liberty Regional Medical Center
- High patient satisfaction with a 5.0-star rating based on 3 reviews
Dr. Laurence Welker
Expertise and Experience
- Graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 1984
- Focuses on Podiatry, Podiatric Surgery, and Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgery
- Affiliated with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System
- Well-regarded by patients with a 4.5-star rating from 8 reviews
Additional Notable Podiatrists
Dr. Richard Havens
- Graduated from Baldwin-Wallace College in 1980
- Specializes in Podiatry
- Received a 4.2-star rating from 5 patient reviews
Dr. Stephen Ertz
- Graduated from Universidad de Iberoamirica (UNIBE) / Escuela de Medicina in 1989
- Affiliated with Willis-Knighton South & The Center For Women's Health
- Has a substantial number of patient reviews (16)
Additional Considerations for Podiatric Care in Shreveport
Insurance and Payment Options
Importance of Verifying Insurance Coverage
- Contact insurance provider to confirm podiatry coverage
- Inquire about in-network vs. out-of-network benefits
- Understand any limitations or exclusions for podiatric treatments
Discussing Financial Arrangements
- Inquire about payment plans or options with chosen podiatrist
- Ask about cash discounts or sliding scale fees if uninsured
- Understand billing practices and potential out-of-pocket costs
Preparing for Your Podiatry Appointment
Questions to Ask During Consultation
- Inquire about specific treatment options for your condition
- Ask about the podiatrist's experience with similar cases
- Discuss expected outcomes and potential risks
- Inquire about follow-up care and long-term management
Information to Share with Your Podiatrist
- Prepare a detailed medical history
- List current medications and allergies
- Describe current symptoms and their duration
- Bring relevant medical records or imaging results
Ongoing Foot Care and Prevention
Regular Check-ups and Monitoring
- Schedule periodic appointments for preventive care
- Follow up on any chronic conditions or ongoing treatments
- Stay informed about new podiatric treatments or technologies
At-Home Foot Care Tips
- Practice proper hygiene and nail care
- Choose appropriate footwear for different activities
- Perform recommended exercises or stretches
- Monitor for any changes in foot health between visits