Podiatric Medical News
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Issue Date: October 22, 2026
Podiatric Medical News
The Voice of Podiatrists Since 1994
A Podiatrist-Run Publication
Reaching 23,000+ Subscribers
October 22, 2026 #8,385 Publisher: Barry Block, DPM, JD
Podiatric Medical News
E-mail us at bblock@podiatricnews.com
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written permission of Barry Block.
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PODIATRIC QUICK POLL
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PODIATRISTS AND SPORTS MEDICINE
Pickleball Causing Achilles Ruptures in Older Women: CA Podiatrist
According to Dana Figura, DPM, "Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and I have watched my own patient population shift right along with it, particularly with one specific injury showing up in a group that almost never used to see it: women in their sixties and seventies rupturing their Achilles tendon. Researchers who reviewed patients undergoing Achilles tendon repair identified a real shift in who those patients are, with pickleball emerging as a common thread behind it."
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| Dr. Dana Figura |
"Participation in the sport has grown by roughly 200 percent over the past three years to more than 13 million players, and injury numbers tied to the sport have climbed even faster, representing nearly a nine-fold increase over the past decade alongside hundreds of millions of dollars in related medical costs. The surge disproportionately affects older adults, especially women in their 60s and 70s, a demographic that historically saw far fewer Achilles ruptures before the sport's popularity exploded," says Dr. Figura.
Source: Yahoo! Creators [10/19/26]
PODIATRIC RESIDENTS IN THE NEWS
Christus Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital Residency Welcomes LA Podiatrist
The Christus Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital Podiatric Medicine and Surgical Residency Program has welcomed Nicholas Hebert, DPM, a foot and ankle specialist, as their newest resident. The program is offered in partnership with the Center for Orthopaedics.
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| Dr. Nicholas Hebert |
Dr. Hebert is from Alexandria, Louisiana. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Mississippi State University and his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Midwestern University, Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine, in Glendale, Arizona. While completing his degree, Hebert served as his class liaison, supporting students to achieve their academic goals and dedicated his extra time to volunteerism around the Glendale community.
Source: Crystal Stevenson, American Press [10/20/26]
PODIATRIC SUPER GROUPS - PART 1
Upperline Health Announces Acquisition of Southaven Foot Clinic
Mississippi becomes the 15th state in Upperline's podiatry footprint as the company deepens its commitment to accessible, high-quality foot and ankle care. Upperline Health is proud to announce the October 20, 2026 acquisition of Mississippi-based Southaven Foot Clinic, operated by Brian Shwer, DPM.
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| Dr. Brian Shwer |
This expansion advances Upperline's mission to serve patients by integrating and transforming specialty healthcare — bringing connected foot and ankle care to more communities that need it most. Upperline Health is one of the nation's largest specialty care providers, delivering whole-person care in specialty settings.
PODIATRIC SUPER GROUPS - PART 2
Upperline Health Welcomes Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists
Upperline Health announced the acquisition of Florida-based Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists effective October 20, 2026. With this addition, Upperline strengthens its reach in the Florida market, further expanding its footprint of clinics across the state.
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| Dr. Maurice Aiken |
Maurice W. Aiken, DPM’s clinical knowledge and longstanding patient relationships make him a valued addition to the Upperline network, expanding access to exceptional specialty care throughout the region.
PODIATRISTS IN INDUSTRY
Aethl Bio Adds 2 Noted Podiatrists as Advisors
Aethl Bio has named David Armstrong, DPM, and Charles Zelen, DPM, as advisors as the Pittsburgh biomaterials company advances its first wound dressing toward a planned FDA 510(k) filing. The move adds diabetic foot ulcer and wound care expertise to a product program that is still in development and not yet cleared for sale.
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| (L-R) Drs. David Armstrong and Charles Zelen |
Dr. Armstrong is a Distinguished Professor of Surgery and Neurological Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, and has authored more than 790 peer-reviewed papers. - He is Founding President of the American Limb Preservation Society. Dr. Zelen is founder and president of the Professional Education and Research Institute in Roanoke, Virginia and is Podiatry Section Chief in the Department of Orthopedics at HCA LewisGale Medical Center.
Source: US Daily Ledger [10/19/26]
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (AI)
RE: AI
From: Rod Tomczak, DPM, MD, EdD
This AI phenomenon in podiatry today is pretty interesting, and I don’t think it’s just a passing fad like the Rolling Stones or the Super Bowls. Listening to reports on AM radio, I came to the conclusion that if I was able to use it, it might delay the trip home, but I had to learn and understand it while I still had a reasonable amount of moxie available and brain cells to rub together. Then I could fool people about that "old-timer's" disease. The most important things to check were the reliability and validity of the sources AI gives out. The authenticated report of the male being 6 months pregnant in Cincinnati was not true, and if anything, it was a Fallopian pregnancy. Garbage in, garbage out.
A couple current topics that I am interested in are first, how good is the clinical information generated about a patient? The second one is really digging deep to check about podiatrists changing jobs, abandoning the degree altogether to open that juice bar in Costa Rica, or changing professions but using a DPM degree. I learned so much I think I’m closer to rooming again with my former hockey teammate who used to forget his helmet in the locker room.
APMA says there are about 18,000 practicing podiatrists in the U.S. That’s a relatively small number, and if I check an AI reference, there is a good chance (50%) that I know the author of that article I referenced or know a guy who knows that guy. Everybody has a guy and that is true 99% of...
Editor's note: Dr. Tomczak's extended-length letter appears here.
YOU CAN'T MAKE THESE THINGS UP
RE: Outrageous Shoe of the Day
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| Who knew a 2,000-year-old shoe made of grass could last? |
Here is an ancient Roman shoe from circa 79 CE made out of esparto grass (Boscoreale Antiquarium, Italy).
Source: Submitted by Dr. Ali Ahmed
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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 - PHOENIX, ARIZONA
Join an established multi-office practice with high new patient volume and great growth potential. We offer an excellent salary + benefits + productivity bonus. Dynamic environment with well trained staff and No Call. Arizona State License preferred but not necessary. Please email CV: HealthyFeetAZ@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION - CONNECTICUT
Associate position with partnership opportunity available in fast growing podiatry/foot and ankle surgery practice. Benefits include: competitive salary, 401(k), health, PTO, malpractice, CME paid. RRA Required. BC/BE Required. Prefer a candidate with office experience to start Jan/Feb 2027. Email cover letter and CV to ctfootanklecare@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE PODIATRIST - PITTSBURGH, PA
Exciting opportunity to join a growing, patient-focused podiatry practice with multiple Pittsburgh-area locations. Seeking a motivated, team-oriented full-time podiatrist. Competitive salary, excellent benefits, established patient base, and supportive work environment. Come grow your career with us! Send CV to: gibbsantonella2112@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE POSITION FULL-TIME - BOCA RATON, FL
Established practice with full schedule from day one. Good variety of pathology, seasoned staff, many ancillaries including MRI, US, Vein Services, CT, Pathology, etc. Excellent for surgical boards cases. Competitive salary/ productivity bonus/ benefits. Highly desirable community. Long-term opportunity. FL License required. ABFAS/ ABPM BQ/BC preferred. Please send cover letter and CV to alopez@certifiedfoot.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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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!
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.
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