Podiatric Medical News
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Issue Date: September 24, 2026
Podiatric Medical News
The Voice of Podiatrists Since 1994
A Podiatrist-Run Publication
Reaching 23,000+ Subscribers
September 24, 2026 #8,365
Publisher: Barry Block, DPM, JD
Podiatric Medical News
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PODIATRIC QUICK POLL
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AT THE COLLEGES
NYCPM Holds Faculty Retreat and Honors 9/11 Volunteers
The New York College of Podiatric Medicine at Touro University (NYCPM) held its annual Faculty Retreat this past week. During the luncheon, Special Achievement Awards were presented to William Graham, retired NYCPM IT Director and Nancy Clark, DPM, retired faculty member, for their pivotal role in establishing and operating a special emergency foot clinic during the aftermath of 9/11 in St Paul's Chapel. The emergency foot clinic operated seven days around the clock, treating hundreds of 9/11 rescue workers for their foot injuries received during the recovery efforts and provided continuing support on site for the next year.
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| (L-R) Drs. Mike Trepal and Nancy Clark; William Graham, and Joel Sturm |
"The heroic efforts of William Graham, Dr. Nancy Clark, and dozens of other faculty and DPMs from across the region and beyond will never be forgotten in their efforts to provide emergency foot care and treatment to the 9/11 rescue workers," said Mike Trepal, DPM, Vice President and Dean of NYCPM.
PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS
PA Podiatrist Explains What Causes Feet to Get Bigger as We Age
The main reason is that over time, your arch “flattens and spreads,” says Lesly Robinson, DPM, a podiatrist and interim dean of the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. This is often due to decreased collagen—the protein that provides strength and elasticity to your skin, muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments—that naturally happens with age. This can cause the ligaments supporting your arches to become lax and can also contribute to flattening arches, Dr. Robinson says.
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| Dr. Lesly Robinson |
Doctors will recommend the best treatment for your feet. This may include orthotics to improve arch support. Shoes should be supportive and have a wider toe box, Robinson says.
Source: Erica Sweeney, Time Magazine [9/18/26]
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 1A
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
It’s great to learn that Dr. Suzuki has taken the lead in being one of the first podiatrists to prescribe GLP-1 meds for her patients. I would love to prescribe these drugs for my patients but have held back because of uncertainty over whether these drugs are within our scope of practice. Obesity causes foot problems. We can treat the foot problems, but is the treatment of obesity alone within our scope of practice? On the other hand, there is research out there, some quoted by Dr. Jacobs, that certain foot conditions may be treatable with GLP-1 drugs, and the efficacy has nothing to do with obesity. Under those circumstances, it would appear that prescribing a GLP-1 would be no different than prescribing an NSAID or anti-depressant like Duloxetine for foot pain, and hence these drugs would be within our scope.
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 1B
From: Jeffrey Wilson, DPM
I agree that GLP-1 receptor agonists represent an important advancement in the treatment of obesity, diabetes, and cardiometabolic disease. Podiatric physicians are uniquely positioned to recognize how excess weight and metabolic dysfunction contribute to diabetic foot ulceration, lower- extremity edema, musculoskeletal pain, impaired mobility, neuropathy, and amputation risk.
In my own practice, I see patients almost daily who demonstrate signs of metabolic disease even though they have not been diagnosed with diabetes and are not receiving treatment for their underlying metabolic dysfunction. In many cases, their primary care physician may not fully recognize the patient’s current metabolic state because fasting glucose and hemoglobin A1c can remain within an acceptable range while significant insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia are already present.
This is an area in which podiatrists can make a substantial difference. We often see the downstream manifestations of metabolic disease before the patient develops overt diabetes. Recognizing these patterns gives us an opportunity to educate patients, recommend further metabolic evaluation, and encourage earlier intervention that may help prevent progression to type 2 diabetes and its lower-extremity complications.
My concern, however, is whether...
Editor's note: Dr. Wilson's extended-length letter appears here.
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CLINICAL) - PART 1C
From: Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD
Sudden blindness associated with the prescribing of GLP-1 drugs has recently come into the media and our dinner conversations. For those podiatrists who are prescribing or are considering prescribing it for Type 2 Diabetes, rest assured that the association of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is 46 fold higher with patients who exhibit a cup to disc ratio less than or equal to .20. Hence the term "disc at risk."
Those podiatrists with a three-year residency should feel proficient with the ophthalmoscope just like a family physician with a three-year residency who prescribes a GLP-1 knowing the cup to disc ratio is normal. Rest assured the incidence of NAION is rare, except when it's your patient. But you can always claim you are a podiatrist with the same training as a family practice physician.
Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD, Columbus, OH
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
From: Allen M. Jacobs, DPM
I could not help but notice that almost every tribute to the life of Dr. Lowell Scott Weil, Sr. was authored by an older podiatrist, essentially of my generation or close to it. It gave me pause for some thoughts.
I recall one day in neurology class that our professor Dr. Henry Shutta was about to discuss amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. He was walking down the center aisle of our un-airconditioned classroom and turned to a very bright student in our class and pointed out that amyotrophic lateral sclerosis was also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. He casually looked at the student and asked, "do you know who Lou Gehrig is?" assuming that he obviously would know. This student, KS, looked back at him and said, "no I have no idea who he is." At first Dr. Shutta thought that he was joking, but then realized he was serious.
I have worked with residents in recent years who have no idea who Willie "say hey" Mays, Johnny Unitas, Wilt "the stilt" Chamberlain, Gordie Howe, or Pele was. Similarly, I suspect that many of the residents if asked would not know who Gerard Yu, Tilden Sokoloff, John Ruch, Earl Kaplan, or Joshua Gerbert, were. The recent death of Lowell Weil, Sr. to some extent reminds me of these circumstances. The reason is quite simple. Leadership is generational. In recent times, ...
Editor's note: Dr. Jacobs' extended-length letter can be read here.
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
From: Michael DiGiacomo, DPM
When I was a student at ICPM, we had an opportunity to spend time at 420 Lee Street in Des Plaines, the office of Lowell Weil and Steve Smith. I considered this to be a center of excellence with a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and to further our education beyond what we received in the classroom. Ever since I graduated, I have followed Lowell’s career and his continuing dedication to improving our education and our place in the medical community. He excelled in so many ways that frankly, he was a hero to me. My condolences to his wife, children, and grandchildren. His life was a gift to his family, the profession, and to me.
Michael DiGiacomo, DPM
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1C
From: Jessica Knight, DPM, Jeffrey Baker, DPM
“But ultimately there comes a moment when a decision must be made” is the first line of a reading Dr. Weil gave at our wedding. He taught us to believe in ourselves and make a decision, no matter if it was a life decision or a decision in the operating room. He was an integral part of our professional and personal life, and words cannot express the sorrow we feel with his passing. The accolades will be plenty and well deserved, and the memories we have from our interactions with him will last forever.
Words cannot express our gratitude for the influence, guidance, and direction he provided us over the years. To many people he will be remembered as the man who changed the profession; to us he will be a man that changed our lives. We will never forget what he has done for us and our family, and we will take every professional and personal opportunity to honor his name, legacy, and make him proud.
Jessica Knight, DPM, Jeffrey Baker, DPM, Chicago, IL
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1D
From: Jon Purdy, DPM, Gary Dorfman, DPM
I was lucky enough as a student to work with both Lowell Weil senior and junior. They took pride in teaching and never treated students as "rake riders". As a resident, I went to exclusively orthopedic meetings at times. Those giants would often reference Dr. Weil with the most collegial respect, even in his absence. When I started practice, Dr. Weil was kind enough to respond every time I called him with an interesting case or a challenging patient.
There is no doubt this profession has advanced because of his inclusion in it. He will be missed. I extend my best wishes to his family.
Jon Purdy, DPM, New Iberia, LA
During the late sixties and early seventies, we in California thought we were the “cat’s meow” when it came to podiatric surgery. Then came Lowell Weil and the Northlake crew, and podiatry and surgery were changed forever. Boy, did we learn. Thank you, Lowell. My thoughts and prayers to Nancy and the entire Weil family.
Gary Dorfman, DPM
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1E
From: Richard Pollak, DPM
I had the great fortune of completing both my first- and second-year residencies at Northlake Hospital from 1977 to 1979. At that time, there were only two hospitals in the Chicago area that granted podiatrists surgical privileges, and Northlake was considered the top surgical podiatry residency program in the country. We had over 120 podiatrists on staff, averaging 30 to 35 surgeries a day, with ten first-year residents and two second-year residents.
Our residency director was Lowell Weil Sr. He was not only an excellent surgeon but an outstanding man in every sense of the word — brilliant, hard-working, and deeply passionate about our profession. He never stopped giving us practice management pearls, advice, and mentorship. I'm sure I speak for nearly every resident who trained under him: as a colleague once put it, he belongs on our profession's Mount Rushmore. From my perspective, he was the GOAT of our field. Beyond his work as team podiatrist for the Bears, Bulls, and White Sox, and his involvement with the Chicago Marathon, he spent his career breaking down the professional barriers that kept younger podiatrists from earning surgical privileges in their own communities.
As a resident, I trained under many fine surgeons at Northlake — and interestingly, most of them had themselves been trained by Drs. Weil, Steve Smith, and Louis Sorto. When I started my own practice in San Antonio, my goal was to follow Dr. Weil's lead. After we all graduated, Lowell kept our community alive through the Northlake Seminar and alumni gatherings. Many of my fellow residents, myself included, owe much of our success to the great Lowell Weil Sr. May he rest in peace, and my deepest condolences to his family.
Richard Pollak, DPM
YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
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| The ultimate test for a custom orthotic lab: accommodating a trunk-to-heel ratio. |
Source: Submitted by Dr. Lana Raginsky
MEETINGS & WEBINARS
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.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - SURGICAL POWER EQUIPMENT
Surgical power equipment for sale: Like new Stryker Core 2 TPX system, enough for 4 work stations. Purchased in 2024 used less than 20 times. 4 hand switches, Core 2 power unit, 8 cords, 4 Sagittal saws, 4 drivers, 4 drills, 4 collets. Paid $67K, would take $50K OBO. Ahandp8@gmail.com
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - SWIFTPRO CORDLESS WART REMOVAL SYSTEM
SwiftPro cordless wart removal system. Like new, used approximately 20 times. Includes charging dock, seven brand-new treatment tips, and soft carrying case for convenient storage and transport. Professional-quality equipment, well maintained and ready for use. Asking $12,000. For additional information, contact Jennifer at jennifer@gpfootandankle.com today.
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
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
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 .
PODIATRIC SURGEON WANTED - AUSTIN, TX
Thriving practice seeking a board-certified/eligible Podiatric Surgeon to start ASAP. Enjoy a lucrative, percentage-based contract with benefits, including CME allowances and covered license fees. Live and work in a vibrant city. Take the next step and email your CV to nbfas@yahoo.com
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
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
PODIATRIST OPPORTUNITY - KANSAS CITY, MO
Start February 2027 | $180K-$300K+ with Bonus Structure | Path to Partnership Physician-owned independent private practice (non-private equity) is looking for a podiatrist to join our 3-doctor team as our 4th physician. For a full job description contact Kelly@ ktrautman@footkc.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST OPPORTUNITIES - CT, DE, FL, IL, MD, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TX, VA, WA & WV
US Foot & Ankle Specialists (USFAS), the nation's largest podiatric group, is hiring! We have current and upcoming opportunities for doctors ready to join now, as well as positions planned for 2027. Join a growing team committed to advanced technology, exceptional patient care, professional development, and long-term career growth. Must be licensed or in the process of obtaining licensure. To learn more, email your cover letter and resume to: recruiting@us-fas.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 POSITION- HUDSON VALLEY NY
Thriving for over 50 years, Family Footcare Group LLP seeks a full-time Podiatrist for its Hudson Valley, NY locations. Role covers lower extremity care, wound treatment, and surgeries. Requires DPM, accredited residency, and board eligible. Offers partnership track, competitive pay, health insurance, CME, relocation, and PTO. Send CV to gatlas@footcaregroup.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
FULL-TIME CHAIR FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF PODIATRIC MEDICINE & SURGERY
The Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is seeking a Full-Time Chair for the Department of Podiatric Medicine & Surgery. The Chair will lead faculty, drive academic excellence, and oversee clinical experiences in a collaborative environment. Generous benefits! ($120K-$140K). jacquelyn.ortiz@rosalindfranklin.edu
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