Best Podiatrists in Durham

Introduction to Podiatry in Durham, North Carolina

Definition of podiatry and its scope

Podiatry is a specialized branch of medicine dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower extremity.

Podiatrists in Durham offer comprehensive care for various conditions, including heel pain, bunions, ingrown toenails, and diabetic foot issues.

These specialists are trained to address both routine foot care and complex surgical procedures, ensuring optimal lower limb health for patients of all ages.

Importance of choosing the right podiatrist

Selecting an appropriate podiatrist is an essential step in maintaining not only foot health but also overall well-being.

A skilled podiatrist can accurately diagnose and effectively treat foot and ankle issues, potentially preventing more serious complications.

Regular podiatric care can lead to improved mobility, reduced pain, and enhanced quality of life, particularly for those with chronic conditions affecting the lower extremities.

In Durham, patients have access to a range of highly qualified podiatrists, each offering unique expertise and approaches to foot care.

Overview of the Doctor Selection Process in Durham

Factors to consider when choosing a podiatrist

Qualifications and certifications

• Review educational background
• Check for board certifications (e.g., Dr. Anna Desaix is certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery)

Experience and specializations

• Consider years of practice
• Look for specializations (e.g., Podiatric Surgery, Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgery)

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine star ratings (e.g., Dr. Anna Desaix has a 4.5-star rating)
• Consider the number of reviews (e.g., Dr. Anna Desaix has 52 reviews)

Hospital affiliations

• Check for affiliations with reputable hospitals (e.g., Duke University Hospital, North Carolina Specialty Hospital)
• Consider the convenience of affiliated hospital locations

Resources for finding podiatrists in Durham

Online directories and review sites

• Utilize Healthgrades.com for comprehensive doctor profiles
• Explore other medical review platforms for additional information

Professional associations

• Consult the North Carolina Podiatric Medical Association
• Use the American Podiatric Medical Association's 'Find a Podiatrist' tool

Insurance provider directories

• Check with your insurance company for in-network podiatrists
• Use insurance provider's online tools to search for specialists

Top-Ranked Podiatrists in Durham

Dr. Anna Desaix

Qualifications and Experience

• Board-certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery
• Graduated from Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine
• Completed residency at SSM DePaul Health Center Podiatric Surgery Advanced Rearfoot/Ankle Reconstruction

Patient Satisfaction

• Highest number of patient reviews (52)
• Impressive 4.5-star rating

Practice Details

• Hospital affiliation with Mercy Hospital South
• Contact number: (919) 220-5255

Dr. Michael Kerzner

Expertise and Background

• Specializes in Podiatry, Podiatric Surgery, and Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgery
• Graduated from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in 1989

Patient Feedback

• 4.3-star rating based on 17 patient reviews

Additional Benefits

• Multilingual: Speaks English and Spanish
• Affiliated with Duke University Hospital and Duke Regional Hospital
• Contact number: (919) 684-8111

Dr. Gary Liao and Dr. Alan Sotelo

Shared Characteristics

• Both maintain perfect 5.0-star ratings (based on 2 reviews each)
• Share affiliations with North Carolina Specialty Hospital and Conway Medical Center

Individual Information

• Dr. Liao: Graduated from Barry University, contact number (919) 477-9333
• Dr. Sotelo: Also graduated from Barry University, contact number (919) 471-1002

Additional Notable Podiatrists

Dr. Millicent Brown

• 4.0-star rating with 12 reviews
• Specializes in Podiatric Surgery and Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgery
• Affiliated with Conway Medical Center and Granville Medical Center

Dr. Melissa Hill

• 3.5-star rating based on 14 reviews
• Multiple hospital affiliations including North Carolina Specialty Hospital and Duke Regional Hospital
• Contact number: (919) 471-1002

Additional Resources and Tips for Finding the Right Podiatrist in Durham

Questions to Ask Potential Podiatrists

Treatment approaches and technologies

• Inquire about specific treatment methods for common foot conditions
• Ask about the use of advanced technologies in diagnosis and treatment

Insurance and payment options

• Verify if the podiatrist accepts your insurance plan
• Discuss payment plans or options for those without insurance

Importance of Initial Consultations

Assessing communication style and patient comfort

• Evaluate how well the podiatrist explains medical terms and treatment options
• Consider your comfort level during the consultation

Discussing treatment plans and expectations

• Ask for a clear outline of proposed treatment plans
• Discuss expected outcomes and potential risks

Utilizing Online Tools and Resources

Review platforms and professional associations

• Use Healthgrades and other review sites to compare podiatrists
• Visit the North Carolina Podiatric Medical Association website for additional information

Verifying credentials and certifications

• Check the podiatrist's educational background and certifications
• Look for memberships in professional organizations

Considering Location and Accessibility

Proximity and convenience

• Consider the podiatrist's office location in relation to your home or workplace
• Check office hours and appointment availability

Hospital affiliations

• Note the podiatrist's hospital affiliations for potential procedures
• Consider the reputation of affiliated hospitals in Durham