Podiatric Medical News
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Issue Date: September 3, 2026
Podiatric Medical News
The Voice of Podiatrists Since 1994
A Podiatrist-Run Publication
Reaching 23,000+ Subscribers
September 3, 2026 #8,350
Publisher-Barry Block, DPM, JD
Podiatric Medical News
E-mail us at bblock@podiatricnews.com
www.PodiatricNews.com
COPYRIGHT 2026 - No part of Podiatric Medical News can be reproduced without the
written permission of Barry Block.
Podiatric Medical News is no longer affiliated with Kane Communications, Inc. and Podiatry Management.
PODIATRIC QUICK POLL
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PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
CA Podiatrist Explains the Fall Risk from Zara "Death Pants"
A $45.90 pair of Zara trousers, officially called the Flowy Wide Leg Pant, has earned the viral nickname "death pants" on TikTok due to wearers tripping over its floor-grazing hems. Social media posts and media reporting detail multiple real-world injuries caused by the extra-long fabric, including a fractured knee, a broken wrist, a broken elbow, and facial cuts. Despite growing coverage regarding these incidents, Zara has not issued a public statement addressing the safety concerns.
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| Dr. Dana Figura |
According to board-certified podiatrist Dana Figura, DPM, the falls are caused by gait mechanics rather than the wide-leg silhouette itself. Extra fabric pooling around the ankles alters standard toe clearance and easily catches under heels mid-stride, creating a tripping hazard regardless of individual balance. To safely style wide-leg trousers, experts recommend having hems tailored to rest at or slightly above the top of the shoe, wearing stable or flat footwear, and remaining cautious around stairs and uneven surfaces.
Source: Yahoo! Creators [8/31/26]
PODIATRISTS AND SPORTS MEDICINE
NY Podiatrist Explains Turf Toe Treatment
Turf toe can sideline athletes for weeks when the largest joint of the big toe is hyper-extended, according to Rochester Regional Health. Podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Paul Stasko, DPM said mild injuries may be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, sometimes with a walking boot. More serious tears can require surgery and physical therapy.
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| Dr. Paul Stasko |
Rochester Regional said recovery can take two to four weeks for a low-grade injury and six to eight weeks when surgery is needed. The health system recommends properly fitted cleats and medical evaluation for a suspected injury.
Source: Fingerlakes.com [8/31/26]
HEALTHCARE NEWS -PART 1
‘A Time Machine, Not a Money Maker’: The New ASC reality
Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) were historically pitched to physicians as high-margin alternatives to hospital operating rooms, but changing insurer policies are eroding those financial rewards. Health plans are increasingly phasing out out-of-network gap exceptions, denying patient authorizations, and drastically reducing reimbursements. As major payers restrict out-of-network coverage and cut payments, practice leaders like Mikel Daniels, DPM warn that ASCs can no longer survive solely on procedural fees and evaluation codes.
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| Dr. Mikel Daniels |
Rather than serving as pure profit drivers, ASCs now function primarily as "time machines" that save surgeons valuable time by eliminating hospital travel, redundant administrative paperwork, and rigid operating room requirements. To offset shrinking facility margins while preserving schedule efficiency, physician practices are increasingly relying on ancillary revenue streams—such as durable medical equipment, medical billing, consulting, and clinical trials—to stay financially viable.
Source: Francesca Mathewes, Becker's ASC [8/31/26]
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Choose any or ALL from 25+ CECH Category - 1 articles posted
HEALTHCARE NEWS - PART 2
Nearly 60% of Physicians Employed by a Hospital or Health System
Physicians in the U.S. are increasingly employed by hospitals and other corporate entities. Across the 700,000 physicians assessed by a Trilliant Health analysis, 59.4% are employed by a hospital or health system. The share of hospital-employed physicians varies by region, from 67.2% in the Midwest to 52.4% in the South, and by state, from 83.0% in North Dakota to 31.3% in Nevada.
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| Share of Physicians Employed by Hospitals, by Specialty, 2026 |
The share of hospital-employed physicians also varies by specialty, from 78.8% in hematology and oncology to 26.9% in podiatry, with procedural and hospital-based specialties among the most frequently employed and office-based specialties among the least frequently employed.
Source: Repertoire Magazine [9/1/26]
SOLE PURPOSE BY SAVANNAH SANTIAGO, DPM
Building a Birdhouse, Building a Surgeon
Here are some valuable tips that have aided Savannah Santiago, DPM in navigating her experiences as a student and a resident:
2. Ask an Expert’s Opinion
This was my first birdhouse. While I led the design process, I still showed my dad my sketches and measurements so he could critique them. He adjusted a dimension here and suggested reinforcement there—not because I was incapable, but because experience sees what enthusiasm may miss. As a resident, I often ask attendings why they selected a particular procedure. Understanding the reasoning behind decisions is just as important as executing them.
One of the simplest ways to demonstrate preparation before a case is to ask to draw out the incision. It shows you’ve considered anatomy, approach, fixation, and closure. And when I’m fresh into practice, I have no doubt I’ll still be sending radiographs to trusted mentors asking, “Here’s my thought process—how would you approach this?” Seeking guidance is not weakness; it is commitment to growth.
Source: This series is adapted from and courtesy of PRESENT eLearning Systems
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Stuart James Ruch, Jr., DPM
Dr. Stuart James “Stu” Ruch, Jr., 101, of Hopedale, formerly of Pekin, passed away peacefully on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 at Hopedale Nursing Home. Stu served his country during World War II as a bombardier in the U.S. Army Air Forces in the Pacific theater, attaining the rank of 2nd Lieutenant.
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| Dr. Stuart Ruch |
He went on to practice podiatric medicine in Pekin for more than 40 years, caring for generations of patients before retiring in 1989. He also co-owned Ruch Orthotic Lab in Pekin with his daughter, Corinne Smith. He was instrumental in establishing one of the first hospital-based podiatry surgery training programs in the U.S. at Hopedale Medical Complex. Also among his 5 children is John Ruch, DPM of Mansfield, GA.
Source: Pekin Daily Times [9/1/26]
MEETINGS & WEBINARS
CLASSIFIED ADS - ASSOCIATE AND FACULTY POSITIONS, AND FELLOWSHIPS
PODIATRIC MEDICAL NEWS CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 23,000 DPMs AND STUDENTS
Whether you have used equipment to sell or are offering an associate position, Podiatric Medical News classified ads are the fastest, most-effective way of reaching over 23,000 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatricnews.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details.
MOBILE PODIATRY POSITIONS - AL, AZ, GA, IA, KS, MO, NE, OK, SC & TN
Build a rewarding podiatry career at any stage with Aria Care Partners. Join our team as a Mobile Podiatrist serving residents in skilled nursing facilities. Focus on clinical care while we provide administrative support. Daily base rate plus competitive compensation. Grow with greater purpose, autonomy, flexibility, and professional support while making a meaningful impact for an often-underserved population. New graduates and experienced Podiatrists are welcome. Send your resume to: kcampbell@aria.care
FULL-TIME ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST OPPORTUNITY - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Loma Linda Foot and Ankle Center is a busy, well-established, physician-owned podiatry practice seeking a full-time Associate Podiatrist to join our growing team. We are looking for a motivated, compassionate, and ethical physician with excellent clinical and surgical skills who is committed to providing outstanding patient care. Qualifications: *DPM degree from an accredited institution *Completion of a minimum 24-month surgical residency *Board Qualified or Board Certified (preferred) *Strong work ethic and excellent communication skills *California license (or eligible for licensure) Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV to: llfootankle@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - EUGENE, OREGON
Tracktown USA! Seeking full-time rearfoot associate to join our team, ABFAS BQ/BC. Both strong clinical and surgical skills are required. 1-2 years out of residency preferred. Compensation with base and bonus structure. Benefits: insurance, paid vacation/holidays, paid CME, malpractice. Buy-in possible/suggested. Enjoy: skiing, world class road, gravel and mountain biking, fly fishing, sailing, surfing, the Oregon Coast, University of Oregon Ducks, minor league baseball, great live music, Eugene Ballet, Eugene Symphony. CV to dustydock@gmail.com
FOOT & ANKLE SURGEON - MANHATTAN, NY
Join Gotham Footcare, a thriving Manhattan practice offering competitive compensation, health benefits, and a $10,000 relocation bonus. Board-Eligible or Board-Certified candidates are required; strong surgical skills are preferred. Email your CV to ana@gothamfootcare.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST - TUCSON, ARIZONA
The Sonoran Foot & Ankle Institute is seeking a motivated podiatrist to join our growing multi-physician private practice serving Tucson, Green Valley, and Oro Valley. We offer a $200,000 base salary, comprehensive benefits, an established patient base from day one, strong referral relationships, surgical exposure, supportive mentorship, and long-term growth opportunities. Enjoy a collaborative, patient-centered environment with the autonomy to develop your own practice style. Contact: contact@sonoranfootandankle.com
GENERAL NONSURGICAL PODIATRIST (DPM) - BASSETT HEALTHCARE NETWORK
Looking to join a respected, physician-led healthcare system in beautiful Central New York? Bassett Healthcare Network, an academic health system affiliated with Columbia University, seeks a General Nonsurgical Podiatrist (DPM) to join an established team of podiatrists and surgeons. Enjoy an immediate referral base from 300+ primary care providers, competitive compensation of $180,000-$225,000, uncapped incentive potential, and a sign-on bonus up to $50,000. Comprehensive benefits include malpractice coverage, CME support, retirement plan, and generous paid time off. Experience an exceptional quality of life in a vibrant lakeside community with year-round outdoor and cultural activities. Apply Today! Click here
ASSOCIATE POSITION - ALBANY, NEW YORK
Well-established podiatry practice in Albany, NY seeks a motivated podiatrist board qualified in forefoot surgery, with strong interests in forefoot surgery, wound care, and sports medicine. Serving the Albany community for over 40 years, we have a strong referral base providing immediate patient volume and professional growth. Position includes surgical privileges and hospital call at a local 440-bed hospital. Competitive compensation, mentorship, and partnership track available. Send CV to Steven.Lam2@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - MARYLAND
Thriving podiatry practice with 3 office locations seeking highly motivated and reliable full-time associate. Candidate must be board eligible, residency with RRA preferred. Great work environment with strong support staff. Competitive compensation, benefits package, and generous sign-on bonus offered. Please email CV to: careers@mynewfeet.com
LEVEL UP YOUR PODIATRY CAREER IN NYC!
Join Footcare Now! From dermatology to reconstructive surgery, our platform drives your growth with full-time, part-time, or flexible roles. Learn while you earn in the heart of New York—relocation assistance provided! Apply now: Send your CV to scdpmjobs@gmail.com
MOBILE POSITIONS - DAYTONA, JACKSONVILLE, NAPLES, ORLANDO, PANHANDLE, SARASOTA, TAMPA
Responsible DPM/NP/PA team players. Home visits, ILF/ALF/Rehab. Paid travel. No call. No ER. Half days or 9-5. Weekends optional. Autonomy. Potential commission up to $230K+/yr based on availability and performance. Serious FL licensed applicants email contact@PodiatristAtHome.com
LOOKING FOR YOUR FOREVER PRACTICE? JOIN OUR TEAM! - NEW JERSEY
New Jersey Foot & Ankle Institute is seeking a well-rounded Associate Podiatrist interested in a long-term relationship and partnership opportunity within our growing, diverse, and highly successful practice in Northwestern New Jersey. We offer an outstanding work environment, competitive salary, excellent benefits, and significant professional growth potential. To apply, send your résumé to: John.guiliana@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST - IL, WI, LA & IN
Immediate opportunity for a qualified podiatrist to join our growing team, providing routine and referral podiatric care in Skilled Nursing Facilities. Competitive percentage-based compensation with $100,000-$150,000+ annual earning potential, based on caseload and productivity. Excellent opportunity to grow patient volume and income. Compensation details discussed during interview. info@ilfootclinic.com
CLASSIFIED ADS - PRACTICES FOR SALE OR WANTED, EQUIPMENT FOR SALE
Podiatric Medical News CLASSIFIED ADS REACH OVER 23,000 DPMs AND STUDENTS
Whether you have used equipment to sell or are offering an associate position, Podiatric Medical News classified ads are the fastest, most-effective way of reaching over 23,000 subscribers. For details, click here or write to: bblock@podiatricnews.com or call (718) 897-9700 for details.
PRACTICE WANTED - LOS ANGELES, CA
Established cash-buyer podiatrist seeking a profitable podiatry office or group practice to purchase with strong patient volume with opportunity for continued growth. Flexible transaction and structure. Practice owners considering retirement, transition, or sale, please contact: podiatry001@gmail.com
EQUIPMENT WANTED - DIGITAL X-RAY PLATES
New or used 10 x 12 inch digital x-ray plate/s to use with iCR-3600 SF processor. Call 917/887-3665 or email drrichardbelli@yahoo.com
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - EXAMINATIONS CHAIRS
We have used examination chairs in good condition available for sale. If you are interested or would like additional information regarding quantity, condition, pricing, or pickup arrangements, please feel free to contact me. 651-747-7748 email: efcare25@gmail.com
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - EMBLATION SWIFT WART MACHINE
Emblation Swift Wart machine in excellent condition, offered at $8000 & located in Chicago. Includes official training protocol. Use for warts, IPKs, toenail fungus, and other skin lesions. Ideal for podiatry/derm. Buyer responsible for pickup or shipping. Contact mswdpm@gmail.com for more info.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - X-RAY EQUIPMENT
USED/LIKE NEW High frequency X-RAY unit with full Rayence software integration & Digital X-RAY XMARU1012 WCA Wireless flat panel portable detector and 3 lithium ion batteries, located in NJ - EMAIL DOCTORBHALJA@GMAIL.COM for details, pics and discounted pricing.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - LASERS
Lunula Laser NO CLICK MODEL, never a click fee, like new, $27,500 OBO. Cutera, GenesisPlus Laser, lightly used great for fungus nails, scars. $18,000 OBO. Dr. Ivar Roth. 949-650-1147 or E mail Frontoffice@CPSNewport.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - WATKINSVILLE, GA
Thirty year established podiatry practice with solid revenue and referral base, loyal patients, and seamless transition. Seller will continue to practice to ease transition. Located in a vibrant medical market near desirable Watkinsville, offering excellent quality of life. Contact: MCrosby518@gmail.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - SPOKANE, WA
35 year established and turnkey practice in Spokane, WA grossing $800k/year. Owner wants to cut back or retire. Wanting to pay it forward by offering the same work-life balance opportunity that I have enjoyed. Enjoy low cost of living, minimal traffic, access to mountains, lakes and four seasons. Email Thomasink50@gmail.com
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