Podiatric Medical News
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Issue Date: October 20, 2026
Podiatric Medical News
The Voice of Podiatrists Since 1994
A Podiatrist-Run Publication
Reaching 23,000+ Subscribers
October 20, 2026 #8,383 Publisher: Barry Block, DPM, JD
Podiatric Medical News
E-mail us at bblock@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
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PODIATRIC QUICK POLL
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PODIATRISTS IN ACADEMIA
GA Podiatrist Earns PhD for Research on the "Phoenix Sign"
Stephen L. Barrett, DPM received the University of Barcelona's highest academic assessment of "Excellent" for his doctoral thesis on the "Phoenix Sign," a diagnostic nerve block for common peroneal nerve entrapment. By administering a small, ultrasound-guided dose of lidocaine, clinicians can temporarily restore motor function in patients with drop foot, identifying focal, surgically treatable entrapment rather than permanent nerve damage.
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| Dr. Stephen Barrett |
Further research revealed that 5% dextrose in water (D5W) can achieve this same "bioenergetic rescue" without requiring ultrasound guidance, significantly broadening its clinical accessibility. Supported by a series of published studies, Dr. Barrett aims to establish the Phoenix Sign as a standard office diagnostic workup for motor weakness and expand these principles to other peripheral nerve entrapments.
PODIATRIC PRODUCTS IN THE NEWS
NY Podiatrist Develops HyperFlex Bunion Correction System
Roughly 150 procedures have been described to correct bunions. The sheer number of approaches reflects how difficult it remains to reliably correct the deformity without sacrificing bone stock or joint stability. Although osteotomies and fusions are appropriate for many patients, Josef J. Geldwert, DPM, saw a need for another option that could preserve anatomy and future surgical choices. He spent 12 years developing the construct that became the HyperFlex Bunion Correction System and now serves as Chief Clinical Officer of HyperFlex Medical.
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| Dr. Josef Geldwert |
HyperFlex received FDA 510(k) clearance in November 2024 and closed a round of funding in 2025. The system uses a flexible, suture-based implant to realign the metatarsals without osteotomy or fusion. Because the procedure does not require bone-cutting or fusion, it eliminates the associated bone-healing phase and allows immediate weight-bearing. HyperFlex entered clinical evaluation in 2025 and has been used in more than a dozen cases.
Source: Kathie Taylor, Orthoworld [9/3/26]
RELEVANT RESEARCH
GLP-1s Linked to Nail Detachment and Other Disorders in New Study
New study results linked GLP-1 receptor agonists (RAs) to nail disorders, including a fourfold increase in the incidence of onycholysis. Experts agreed that further investigation is needed and advised against raising unnecessary concerns in patient interactions. The findings were presented on October 1 in a late-breaker session at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) 2026 Congress in Vienna, by study co-author Bianca Maria Piraccini, MD, PhD, of the Dermatology Unit at the University of Bologna in Bologna, Italy.
- GLP-1 RA users had increased nail disorders vs. controls: 66.3% vs 52.8%.
- Onycholysis showed the largest signal: 39.3% vs. 8.7%.
- Dyschromia, fragility, and ridges/grooves were also more common.
- Association persisted after age/sex/co-morbidity adjustment; weight-loss subgroup gap narrowed.
- Evidence is hypothesis-generating; prospective blinded studies are needed before practice change.
Source: Scott Harris, Medscape [10/9/26]
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (THE FUTURE OF PODIATRY)
RE: The Future of Podiatry
From: Paul Taylor, DPM
I retired 10 years ago but continue to observe the changes in healthcare, especially in podiatry - decreasing reimbursement and increasing inflation; the use of PAs and NPs providing routine podiatry services. There is lower student enrollment in podiatry schools. Private equity groups are taking over private practices. When I see the changes over the last decade, I wonder what the practice of podiatry will be like in the next 10 years. A high school senior or college freshman today would need to think about this if considering becoming a podiatrist. Where will podiatry be in 2036?
Paul Taylor, DPM, Silver Spring, MD
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RESPONSES/COMMENTS (CODING & BILLING)
From: Ron Werter, DPM
Dr. Kormylo questions if he can bill the patient if Anthem asks for money back because Anthem "mistakenly" paid for the orthotics. I would certainly bill the patient. Depending on your level of frustration, you could send the bill to collection if they don’t pay. It’s the patient's insurance company, not yours. Get them involved. Have them complain to the insurance company that you’re billing them. Sometimes, the patients themselves had confirmed with the insurance company that orthotics were covered. The insurance company probably had told them the same thing they told you. So now it’s between the patient and their insurance company, not between the patient and you.
Ron Werter, DPM, New York, NY
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (ARTICLES)
From: Allen M. Jacobs, DPM
I wish to thank Dr. Hrywnak for his recent commentary to PM News regarding the role of political advocacy for the podiatric profession. Like Dr. Tomczak, we are fortunate to have the insight of these educators shared with us.
Once again, the issue of a plenary license for the podiatric physician has been raised. It is my belief that podiatry does not necessarily require a plenary degree to survive and achieve political success, but it may require broader educational authority, stronger professional recognition, and importantly, greater influence over healthcare policy. The answer depends on what you define by the term plenary license.
There are three distinct issues that appear to be important: Professional survival, professional parity, and political success. Political survival meaning can podiatry continue to maintain a distinct role in healthcare and remain economically viable? Professional parity questions whether podiatrists have the education, qualifications, and clinical authority comparable to other healthcare professionals. Political success raises the specter of whether the profession can secure legislative recognition, reimbursement, hospital privileges, and influence over healthcare policy.
These goals overlap but they are not identical. The profession can survive without...
Editor's note: Dr. Jacobs' extended-length letter appears here.
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
So sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Labush. He was the very first podiatrist I met when I was considering a career in podiatry. He practiced on the posh East side of Providence, Rhode Island. I was a junior at Providence College. He welcomed me into his nicely appointed office without reservation. He was doing a 3rd toe hammertoe arthroplasty that day in office; I'll never forget it.
His demeanor with the patient was calming and he took the time to explain in detail his procedure. I was very impressed and it left an indelible mark that I remember to this day. When I returned to RI to practice, I re-acquainted myself with Dr. Labush at monthly state meetings and he was just as eager to help newly-minted practitioners such as myself as the day I first met him. He was one of the members at the vanguard that helped secure hospital privileges for all of us in Rhode Island and we are indebted to him. I'm happy that he had such a long life that I'm sure was well lived. God Bless!
Angelo J. Bigelli, DPM
YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
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| Unique way to carry spare straps? |
Source: Tetsuo Mukai via Virtual Shoe Museum
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.
WOUND CARE FELLOWSHIP - NEW YORK
CPME-APPROVED 12-month fellowship, located at St. John's Episcopal Hospital in Queens, New York. Hospital and clinic environment, with onsite hyperbaric medicine. The wound care fellowship position pays a 6 figure salary for the year, with benefits. Please contact Dr. Joseph Tarantino at jtfootcare@gmail.com EOE employer.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - LONG ISLAND
Advanced Foot Care is seeking a full-time Podiatrist to join our upscale, multi-location practice with 8 state-of-the-art offices across Long Island. We provide a modern, newly renovated work environment, a supportive and collaborative team culture, and access to the latest medical technology and billing software. We are looking for a motivated physician with a strong work ethic, positive energy, and a passion for patient care. In return, we offer competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package. To learn more, visit www.AdvancedFootCare.com and apply by emailing dr.pedramh@advancedfootcare.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SAN FRANCISCO EAST BAY
Join our multi-office practice. Must have great people skills, bedside manner, and positive demeanor. Must work well with staff and local medical community. Prefer private practice experience. California license required. Send CV and cover letter to: ebpod2008@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - MANHATTAN
Exceptional opportunity for a Foot & Ankle Surgeon (DPM) to join a thriving boutique Manhattan practice! $200K guaranteed compensation with $400K+ first-year earning potential. 40-hour workweek, no call, 20 days PTO, health benefits, relocation assistance, and exceptional culture. Surgical skills preferred. Board eligible/certified required. New graduates welcome! Email CV: nycfootdoctors@gmail.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 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
ASSOCIATE POSITION - FLORIDA
Full-scope Florida practice, integrated into the physician referral loops with innovative office ancillaries and comprehensive patient care. Details: podiatryinparadise.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST OPPORTUNITIES - DE, FL, IL, MD, MO, NC, NJ, OH, PA, 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
MOBILE PODIATRY POSITIONS - AZ, IA, MO, NE & OK
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 POSITIONS - WARREN AND STERLING HEIGHTS, MICHIGAN
Cosmetic Foot & Ankle Surgery P.C. is hiring two full-time podiatrists in Warren and Sterling Heights, MI. One role is mobile/homecare, the other in-clinic. Competitive pay, benefits, modern surgical suites, and support staff provided. Email CV to drzefmarkaj@gmail.com. New grads welcome.
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CONNECTICUT
Established high volume Connecticut Podiatry practice seeking a motivated surgical or nonsurgical podiatrist to join our team, treating a diverse patient population with all types of foot and ankle conditions. Enjoy a strong patient base, high income potential and a rewarding career in a supportive environment. Residency program affiliation. Contact bfsoffice301@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SYRACUSE, NY
Seeking a skilled, compassionate podiatrist to provide exceptional foot and ankle care. Competitive pay, supportive team, and great growth opportunities. Surgical board numbers within the first year! Apply to docryanlee@gmail.com and take the next step in your career!
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST - SOUTHWEST
A well-established, physician-owned independent private practice seeks a full-time Podiatric Surgeon. We offer a highly competitive starting salary, performance-based bonus structure, comprehensive benefits, and a defined pathway to partnership and ownership. Exceptional opportunity for a motivated surgeon seeking long-term professional and financial growth in a thriving surgical practice. Strong surgical skills, work ethic, and commitment to exceptional patient care required. Submit CV: prljammin@hotmail.com
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
ASSOCIATE POSITION - SOUTH JERSEY/PHILADELPHIA
Seeking full-time associate for busy practice. Our group covers the full range of foot and ankle care including routine foot care, wound care centers, inpatient care, elective surgery and trauma/reconstruction. All levels of training/experience are encouraged to apply but must be board qualified/certified. Reply to dkm449375@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - GREATER PHOENIX AREA - IMMEDIATE OPENING
Well established, respectable, large group podiatry practice has an immediate opportunity for an associate. We have a great balance of office and surgical practice. Looking for a well-rounded associate, bilingual in Spanish a plus, with the desire to grow, learn and develop excellent clinic and surgical skills. Potential to make 200K in first year. Non-surgical accepted. AZ License needed, Please submit resumes to: podiatryaz@gmail.com
PODIATRIST WANTED - NORTH JERSEY
Established practice has openings for full-time and part-time podiatrists. We want personable team players who enjoy patient care. Full-time compensation is $200K+ including bonus. Benefits include a 401(k) with match, PTO, a CME allowance and CME time off. Send CV to njpodoffice@gmail.com
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
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.
SEEKING TO PURCHASE A PODIATRY PRACTICE - BERGEN, ESSEX & HUDSON COUNTIES, NJ
Established North Jersey podiatrist, not Curalta or private equity, looking to acquire a practice. Private, physician-to-physician conversations. A dignified transition that respects your legacy, your patients and your staff. All inquiries kept strictly confidential. Reply to njpodoffice@gmail.com
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
MOVING SALE - MIDTOWN MANHATTAN
Selling all contents of podiatry office including EQUIPMENT, MEDICAL SUPPLIES, FURNITURE. Midmark chairs, autoclave, x-ray, instruments, medical supplies, DME, etc. Priced to sell. Items need to be picked up last week in October. Make me an offer on any item(s)! Call 201-220-0687.
TURNKEY PODIATRY PRACTICE FOR SALE - SALISBURY, NC
Established 36-year podiatry practice located just blocks from the hospital. The office features four treatment rooms. Building and equipment are included, offering an excellent opportunity for a podiatrist ready to establish or expand a practice. Click here to learn more / contact Phillip Kolb at phillip@newleafbrokerage.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - UPPER WEST SIDE - MANHATTAN
After more than 30 years in private practice, I am beginning my transition toward retirement and I am seeking podiatrist interested in acquiring my established Upper West Side practice. The practice has a loyal patient base, a long standing reputation in the community, and an excellent Manhattan location. An ideal opportunity for someone looking to establish a New York City practice or add a second location. Serious inquiries welcome and confidential. Please contact the office manager Mrs. Maritza Valentin (917) 287 2954. email Valentinm1875@gmail.com
30-YEAR PODIATRY PRACTICE: PRICED BELOW APPRAISAL- KANSAS CITY, MO
Skip the start-up years and step into an established hospital-campus practice with strong referrals and over 25,000 patient records! This practice is fully equipped with digital x-ray, EMR, and an experienced staff. It is open four days a week, with demand for five. The retiring physician will stay on to support your transition. Opportunities like this rarely come available. Confidential inquiries: holly@burkmanconsulting.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - MIAMI (KENDALL), FLORIDA
40 year established practice in Miami (Kendall), Florida. Ground floor location in small office condo complex. Great parking and close proximity to multiple hospitals. If interested, please email to ldorman@flafootandankle.com
PRACTICE FOR SALE - NEW JERSEY
Rare opportunity to acquire a thriving 35+ year podiatry practice with two established locations: 1 Pelican Dr., Bayville, NJ, and 890 W. Bay Ave., Barnegat, NJ. Professionally appraised at $365,000, with financing available. Practice owns Barnegat office and offers five-year lease with option to purchase. Serious buyers, inquire today! Buffywoo@comcast.net
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 new lower price!
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
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