Office overall dirty with shoe boxes and bicycles. Drs. Own office was really trashed, his desk is embarrassing. He Should keep his door closed. I didn't see any use of any foot machines. Instead the Dr. is focused on selling shoes $150- $225 + And nutrients $60.00 a month . I had questions, but he was seeing several patients in different rooms simultaneously. Odd! I was directed to watch his tube talks instead. He needs to work on his listening skills. He seems busy or bored. My appt. was disappointing. read more

I was filling out the initial visit form on a tablet when a medium sized dog, yes, dog, came at me and was 5 inches from my face. Doctor apologized for his dog. But the rest of the visit as equally bizarre. read more

Kind of a bizarre experience. Had to take my daughter to another podiatrist for an actual exam where the doctor wore gloves and actually touched the patient's toe, looked closely, then gave options, and real treatment. The receptionist? drew some supposedly acrylic lines on my kid's toenail and said that would help an ingrown toenail. It did not at all and fell off in the shower a week later though it was supposedly going to last 5 weeks and straighten her nail growth. Total joke but I wanted to try it. Time and money wasted not to mention health risk if it got worse while waiting to see another doc. read more

Dr. Pearl is a very caring doctor that spends time with you and tries to provide options for treatment with an awareness of the costs. The staff is extremely helpful and made arrangements to get me in on the same day when I was in pain and needed a follow-up appointment. Dr. Pearl texted us and called to check in on the progress of my healing. read more

As soon as I walked in I should have walked right back out. The office is dirty looking. I have been to medical offices that have an older feel but they are not dingy like this one. I went in for Kerryflex because a portion of my toenail fell off. I picked this office based on the pictures posted to their website and availability. I am sitting in the patient room and the receptionist walks in and starts prepping my toenail. Ok she could be a medical assistant but no. She's the one doing the Kerryflex restoration. I thought the actual podiatrist was going to do it. I wish I was told that when I made the appt. Long story short my toenail absolutely does not look anything like the photos they have online. She said that it was the color but as you can see the color is not the issue. When I asked her could someone else come i. To fix it she said she was the only one that did that in the office. Huh?! The doctor doesn't know how to do it?! If he can't do it why is it listed on your website as a service?! After reading the reviews today I see that this practice is pretty janky. They will never have to worry about seeing me ever again. I am so irritated it's not even funny. I just looked up if you have to be licensed to apply Kerryflex and it says only a licensed professional can perform this application as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. How irresponsible of them! read more

Arlington Foot and Ankle - What the unlicensed receptionist did to my toe. - Podiatrists Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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The podiatrist is billing Medicare for diagnostic codes that do not exist on patients to get a higher payment. Potentially Medicare fraud. Think twice. read more

Dr. Ben truly cares about every patient he sees, one of the best podiatrists in Arlington, VA!

Worst medical visit EVER!! I guess it was a sign that I could be seen right away for callouses. I get there and the office looks unclean, in need of vacuuming, and repair to the walls and ceiling. After waiting for about 15 min, I was called in by a Hispanic guy with no scrubs on. He takes me in the exam room and starts to ask me about my issues. I tell him about calluses, a low arch, possible bunion formation, etc. and assume he will take this info to the podiatrist before he comes in...nope! The assistant, not being a doctor, says that he is going to put some softening solution on my calluses, then the doctor will shave them off. What?!!! I'm here for an evaluation as a new patient and you already want to cut me? No X-rays, no examination from an actual doctor? I ask him what the solution us that he's using. He clearly doesn't know or won't say. And the fact that its in a small Tupperware container with cotton balls has me a bit worried. He proceeds to talk about how he uses it on old people's toenails because they are really thick. Yuck! Then offered some to me!! In a biohazard bag (see pics)! Then another woman comes in to get supplies for another room. The "assistant" starts talking to me about the election. And how he's just glad "his boy" Obama won. Grant it, I am a supporter if Obama, but this is highly unprofessional. Just as he's leaving to get the doctor, he tells me to hide the samples he gave me, otherwise "the doctor will charge me." Okay...wait, was I just apart of a podiatry drug deal? :-/ The doctor comes in, doesn't ask me about why I came or my concerns, but just tells me it's $25 to shave the calluses and its not covered by insurance. (wow, lol). Then as I proceed to tell him why I'm there (obviously he doesn't care), he never offers a suggestion on preventative methods. He finally ask if I want to do an X-ray, not to see what's going on, but to track the progression if my bunion. Now at this point I find out 2 things; 1) what I thought was the early formation of an issue, is now being called a bunion, and 2) we aren't going to figure out why this is happening, just watch it get worse. I'm so done at this point. I politely ask to be excused to the bathroom and haul ass out if there. Yes, I chose the flight part of the Fight or Flight response (those who to psychology will get that) That was by far the worlds worst podiatrist! How has no one reported him at this point? read more

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1. Small office, but to be expected for Arlington. 2. Light bulbs needs to be changed to Daylight LED bulbs in the waiting area. Light is too dingy. 3. Went to have an elder relatives toe nails clipped. 4. Placed in supply room before examine rm opened up. It was a cluster ____ room. 5. Doctor kept coming and going; even before starting the clipping. Seems like he can't sit still. He means well, but it comes across as if he has no care for his patients as he does something then leave. Comes again then leaves. It came across as if he was trying to multi-task, when he should just stay finish the task at hand then move on. Coming and going make patients feel they don't matter. 6. His secretary was asking him about bills and phone calls from bill collectors. She asked whether or not to pay such and such different vendors. He told her to pay one and then no to another. Since it's such a small private practice, they should refrain from talking about business matter until all patients are NOT in the practice. From his conversation with her I gleamed that he may not pay his bills on time. Again, had they been having that conversation while no one was around I would have never gotten this impression. 8. Doctor clipped toe nails, then had his secretary/assistant come in and file nails??? Not sure if a license is needed to attend to feet, I felt Doctor should have been the one to do the whole procedure. ***Actually she did an a excellent job on her feet, and my relative did not complain. **** Would I return, NO... I later did a review of VA state board reprimands on him... read more

I can testify not only to Dr. Pearls's kind, attentive and caring style but also to his medical excellence. He has been a conscious and thorough doctor-devoting ample time to me as a patient and clearly doing his homework outside the office-as well as being a pleasure to visit when the need arises. Dr. Pearl is the total package, I will never go elsewhere for the care of my feet. Dr. Pearl called me after our appointment to check up on me and see how I was doing. It made me feel so much better to know he cared about me as his patient. I could call him or email him anytime with questions, and he always responds promptly. Don't look anywhere else! Dr. Pearl is the best podiatrist out there. He excels in so many areas! He genuinely cares about his patients and the quality of the work he does is second to none. read more

I've had chronic foot problems my whole life and been to many specialists over the years. Dr Pearl and the Arlington Foot & Ankle Center are first-rate. They carefully evaluated my situation and listened to my needs. I want to keep running but I also need to be able to spend all day in formal dress shoes. They suggested a range of interventions-- physical therapy, medicine, orthopedic shoes, even surgery. We discussed the benefits and costs of each and jointly developed a plan. Frankly some orthopedic practices can feel a little scammy -- they seem to be in the business of up-selling patients pricey orthotics, shoes etc. Dr. Pearl and team were a refreshing change from this. Our conversation was very frank and open. Office hours are flexible and the staff are available by phone. read more

Salesman in a white coat I just read one five star review about EPAT, shockwave, ESWT and was hoping to get a similar result. Dr. Pearl doesn't care whether you end up in a wheelchair or suffer pain for the rest of your life. When you see him, instead of asking "how can I help you", his question is "how can I SELL YOU this". In two visits, I had five different objects that he tried to sell me. I can understand anybody's financial motives, I don't begrudge that. BUT, if that cuts into the time he is supposed to talk about your condition or care, that is not acceptable. If you want to make more money, spend ten hours in your office instead of eight. But don't spend the precious few minutes you talk to me all about what products you can sell. I drove eighty miles round trip for this EPAT treatment. I can spend time for your sales pitch, but let's talk about my condition first, is that fair? His office opens at 9, for my 11 am appointment he already saw about sixteen people (from the patient list). Do the math on how much time he spent on each patient if he was going through his sales. Coming to my treatment, he was very inattentive during my treatment. When I left negative votes to his other reviews on Yelp, he offered to do a free treatment, but he doesn't deserve my time. I'd rather drive any distance to find a better, caring person than see him again in my life read more

Positive: I was able to see them very quickly! I had no problem scheduling an appointment and a follow-up. The location was very convenient. Things to work on: 1. Patient Privacy: There is no soundproofing between the waiting room and the patient room. You can hear every word of every conversation. 2. Cleanliness: There are stacks of "stuff" everywhere in Dr. Pearl's office and the patient room. I thought I was going to trip over a stack of tables while stepping up to the foot x-ray. 3. Receptionist: I asked for a doctor's note stating my prognosis for work (not for worker's comp, just to show that I was being seen there so I can take sick leave for the appointment). The receptionist stated she would email me it as she was too busy, I never received the note. I called back again a week later and she stated she would send it to me again. Never received it. Thank goodness my work knew I was trying to get the note and excused my absence as sick leave because Dr. Pearl's front office is so disorganized. 4. Billing: I never received a first or second notice in the mail for my bill, only a third bill. I paid my co-payment and additional x-ray fees at the appointment in person for both of my visits. I had to take off time from work to fax (as they don't accept emails) the company that contracts with Arlington Foot and Ankle my credit card statement for proof of payment. Overall, I would see them if your insurance will only let you see Dr. Pearl. Other than that, I would shop around to see if there is a place that handles billing and front-office organization better. read more

1. Upon arrival, I was asked if I had completed the patient portal, which I had never been notified of. I was asked to complete it on my phone. 2. My appointment was scheduled for 3:00 pm and I was finally called back at 3:40. There was zero communication during that 40 minutes and the receptionist was back filing some other patients nails (I know this because everything is discussed in the open). 3. The doctor came in, threw some kind of cream and cotton ball between my toes and came back in with a blade that I am still praying was sterile. He took two swipes at my problem area and called it a day. Total time in the room was less than 3 minutes. 4. I brought visit notes from another (very much more qualified) podiatrist that I saw with the same problem 3 years ago; he couldn't even take 30 seconds to read it and discuss it with me. 5. To top it off, this freak charged me an extra $10 on top of my $40 co-pay! Fifty bucks for approximately one minute with the "doctor"! I didn't even argue as I just wanted the hell out of that filthy office. As many have said, they try to sell you junk the second you're in the chair. This is by far the most disgraceful medical setting that I have ever stepped foot into. I guess there is a reason he had so much availability. Please, save yourself and go somewhere - anywhere - else. read more

Overall great experience. Made appointment thru zoc docs, came in. The only quirk was they asked if I did the new patient form, I had to fill it out on my phone while waiting, however this was fairly simple. Dr. Pearl saw me within 5 minutes after I finished the form. He used ultrasound to inspect my left ankle and thoroughly explained what he was seeing while showing me the screen, and translating it to treatment options. He prescribed me a walking boot and suggested a simple 2 week followup to checkout the tendon. No medication needed. A great example of a Dr that can prescribe only what's needed and shows intimate knowledge of his specialty. read more

Prefer a doctor who can be in tune with how I want to proceed with my body and how they approach me as a person. I like Dr. Pearl. He understands that I would prefer to deal with my knee issues by addressing the underlying issues rather than surgery. I have gone to other doctors. The Ortho suggested elective surgery within moments of the exam. The Chiro treated me and suggested to address underlying conditions. No surgery and knee feels better. read more

So after I wrote an honest review on another website, I have received multiple phone calls and been harassed and bullied to edit/ remove my review off the website by Dr Pearl. I have received threatening phone calls from Dr Pearl at my place of employment and this doctor has made false claims and written false statements on the internet about me. He is making false claims about me (I am an obgyn and HE is NOT a patient of mine) and this is completely unethical and unrelated to my profession. I saw this doctor as a patient and I have never ever been insulted and harassed like this before just to express my opinion freely in this country. I have a constitutional right for free speech and he has no right to harass me and make false claims and defame me. I am not sure why he is still holding a license to practice medicine in VA. ORIGINAL REVIEW: The service of the staff is aweful. It took them almost a year to figure out my billing issues and at the end, when they said my shoe inserts are covered and I had already left a $250 downpayment in case the insurance didn't cover my inserts, they not only didnt return my downpayment, but didnt even count it in the payments and I owed them more than $300 dollars. It was an aweful experience.. read more

I last saw Dr. Pearl 10 years ago for a minor foot injury so this past week, when I started getting plantar fasciitis for the first time ever I couldn't think of anywhere to go to but to him. (Even though other friends suggested other names). He an amazing specialist in his field and took the time to explain to me exactly what was going on. He also did a sonogram and a shock wave therapy over a cortisone shot as other friends advised. He also suggested insoles for my shoes and heels and let me try several ones before I found the right fit. The office staff was also cordial and friendly and they were patient with me because I was even a few minutes late due to construction around the hospital. Overall I highly recommend Dr. Ben Pearl. read more

I almost feel bad writing this, as the Doctor and staff were all very friendly folks. I experienced much of the same shenanigans as the other low ratings. The place is a shambles. It looks like the lair of a madman pretending to be a dr. The doctor had track pants/ sweatpants on along with a filthy lab coat, covered in stains. It was striking enough that I almost decided to leave at this point. The ultra sound machine was filthy and the business end was caked in dried up lubricant. It was quickly wiped off with some sort of wipe from a can. The rubber attachment was also filthy. Again I almost left, but I was concerned about whether my insurance would cover the cost of a walkout. The doc showed me calcifications in my tendon, but never explained what it meant or how it's treated. He quickly tried to sell me numerous products, socks, boots, massage balls, inserts, etc. It wasn't a hard sell, but it was still a lot coming at me. I politely deflected most of it and made up an excuse about why I wasn't able to schedule a follow up appointment. He did suggest a few exercises to do in the meantime. Again, the folks there were friendly, but it was such a mess, I lost all confidence in their ability to help me. Friendly is great, but I already have friends. I was looking for an orderly and professional medical expert. The level of chaos here was just too much for me. I just couldn't trust my health to this place. I immediately located another podiatrist in Clarendon. I was so freaked out by the disheveled and dirty condition at AF&A that I DROVE to the new podiatrists office to scout it out and make an appointment in person. It looked more promising. I'll follow up on the new place next week. read more

STAY AWAY! I only made an appointment here because I wasn't able to get into OrthoVirginia on this day and was having a major issue with my ankle (running injury).... details are below about the appointment, but cliff-note version: I ended up in OrthoVirginia right next door immediately after leaving this place in tears. Thank god I received the proper medical treatment after leaving, as it could have been very serious. It is scary that Dr. Pearl is making medical decisions, and now I received a ridiculous bill in the mail that I'm working to dispute... (same as all these other reviews reference that the Co-Pay isn't reflected on the statement - when I called the third party they use for billing, the lady laughed and apologized for laughing, but it's been so common with this place that she is finding it all she can do.) I'm working on an official Quality of Service Complaint with my insurance and hope it helps to drop him from their coverage. Who really needs good insurance when they have a groupon machine behind the desk anyways - you should know you are getting top notch with that. Just as an FYI - I have great insurance and don't even need to pay for Physical Therapy or at most pay $20 copays, I left here paying $70. Details: The place is not very clean, and as a medical facility, it's actually unacceptable. I could hear him waltzing around in the back talking about someone's foot issue, that is so embarrassing - no privacy! So, I finally got called back to the room, which the door remained open because he was walking between my patient room and the room next door, and at one point standing between them talking about what our issues were. He had a nurse (loose term here) "prepare the ultrasound" machine without even moving my ankle or asking me about what exactly I was experiencing, how/when it happens, etc. They started to use the machine, which I did not authorize or agree to for the charge - I wasn't aware there even was a charge. He then told me that I had a small tear in my Achilles and his treatment: 1 compression sock. I tried on various, already opened packages of compression socks, which they packaged back up to sell to other people after they were on my foot/leg (ew!!) and when he found one that "fit" he said to wear it and it should resolve my pain. He also assumed that I was a size 9 and said I had a wide foot (if you are a foot and ankle doctor, wouldn't you know if someone had REALLY small feet, like a size 6? someone that purchases narrow shoes?) Then, to add insult to injury (really), he said I need a custom shoe insert - he never even asked: I already wear custom fit shoes!! Sell away, salesman, your no doctor. I just wanted to run out of the door. I was so dumbfounded and upset, I just knew I had to leave and go elsewhere - when I got to the front, they charged me half price for the sock, because there was only one left in the box. A $20 sock, a $30 ultrasound charge, and a $20 standard co-pay. I then received a bill in the mail from the referenced third party, stating that I only paid a $20 copay on the ultrasound, and that I owed $133 for the ultrasound!! What?! So I called them, and the receptionist, who managed to spell both my first AND last name wrong, basically just told me it was what I owed them. I am working to dispute this charge as I wasn't aware of it and it should have never happened. My best description of this doctor matches another review below: distracted, everywhere, unable to diagnose, not clear on what the actual problem is when explaining, and very unprofessional. My regular orthopedic surgeon was astonished at this service and I am on the path to recovery, as Dr. Pearl didn't even diagnose the issue correctly, he made it up. It was false.... 10/1/15 UPDATE: The 3rd party billing was unable to get a response from the office regarding my co-payments that were clear enough to explain the charges. They also didn't respond to them regarding the ultrasound charge when they inquired. The lady at the 3rd party told me that she felt bad for me, and that it was very frustrating for her to see what I was going through. She said she didn't know what else to say. I then called Arlington Foot and Ankle and talked to the lady at the front, I explained everything in detail again and said that the next communication regarding this issue would be from our lawyer. She was able to "erase" the charge and sent me an un-official email from a GMAIL account (c'mon, this is a doctor's office) of Ben Pearl which read: "You should not be getting any further bills regarding the visit of 8/31/2015. Your ultrasound has been taken off the bill as well. I will also let juanita know that the ultrasound has been refunded to you. Thank you" Juanita is the lady at the 3rd party billing - I'll be confirming with her that this ridiculous correspondence will suffice to cancel any collections for this medical appointment. I hope this review is helpful for anyone considering......... read more

I read the negative reviews in advance of my appt, but scheduled with this Dr. and this practice anyway -- mostly because it's close to my house and there were a few positives here, so thought my experience would be different. WRONG. Believe the negatives here. Terrible experience. A couple of highlights: -Walk in the office and the waiting room is so dark that I thought they were closed. I asked the receptionist why it was so dark and she told me the lights were still "heating up". This was at 9:30 am. When I left the lights remained the same. -The Dr. seems totally distracted and scattered. Almost like he has some sort of attention problem. He was everywhere -- even behind the reception desk. Also giving orders constantly to the receptionist and his assitant, Spencer -- talking about issues from previous patients. Barely paid any attention to me. I had to ask him several time to clarify his diagnosis. He never sat down and was eager to get out of the exam room (my perception). -Dirty and unorganized office. Stuff stacked everywhere. Magazines, papers, various equipment, etc. -Tried to sell me 3 different products -- seemed more focused on this as opposed to focusing on my foot. Shoes, a pain cream, and orthotics. PS: the shoes he sells are available on Amazon -- brand called Vionic. -As he was examining my foot, he was shouting the notes for the file down the hall to Spencer who was in an office on a computer taking everything down. Bizarre and almost felt like a violation of my privacy as I'm sure anyone in the waiting room could hear (it's a small office). So in short, I'm not going back EVER and would never recommend this doctor. Sorry that I didn't listen to the reviews in the first place. They are spot on. UPDATE - 9/23/15: I'm having the same billing issues that others here have referenced. Co-pay not reflected on statement. They use a 3rd party agency to handling biling and they have no way of tracking down payment. Up to me now to fax additional receipts and "prove" that I paid my co-pay. Total nightmare. Person at 3rd party agency commented that "yeah, we've had some problems with this office". Uh-huh. Seriously, do yourself a favor and see another doctor. I did and turns out I have a stress fracture and am in a walking boot for 4 weeks -- Dr. Pearl was unable to diagnose this. read more

I recently moved back from CA and was uninsured. My health insurance recently kicked and I have a plantar wart on the bottom of my foot that kills me when I work my second job (because I stand the whole time). I called on a Friday and they were able to fit me in on Monday. The lady that I spoke to was very professional. She answered all of my questions and told me that I could complete my NP paperwork online. They are accomodating to your schedule which is a huge bonus to me. Walked in and was greeted by the receptionist. She checked me in then took me back shortly after. The one thing that I truly appreciate is she came in the room and warned me that if I were to get any XR's or have a procedure done I would have to meet my deductible before my insurance benefits kick in. For people like myself that do not understand insurances, that was helpful and thoughtful of her. The doctor was friendly. While he took a look at my corn, he made small talk which is nice for someone that gets scared going to the doctor. He was able to tell my that I get plantar corns on the side of my foot because that is where I put most of my pressure due to me being pigeon toed. He gave me some special shoes that seem to be helping. Overall, I am very satisfied with Dr. Pearl and his practice. read more

I wish I could give this place 0 stars. It's a mess. The doctor was over 30 mins late, the office is dirty with piles of paper everywhere, and when I was finally seen by the doctor, he picked up the phone (2x) to talk to his friend mid appointment. He noticed I got upset and had the nerve to ask if he did anything to upset me - terrible. They over charged me and never told the insurance I paid so I ended up having to chase them around to report back to the insurance company and get money back from them because I over paid. Just terrible - please avoid this place at all costs. He shouldn't be doctor. read more

HIGHLY RECOMMEND FOR ATHLETES. My foot began hurting after my wife dragged me on a long (20+ miles) hike. I figured it was nothing and just stopped running for awhile, but rest didn't seem to be helping . I wasn't able to run or play soccer or even walk a moderate distance without feeling soreness and pain in my foot. I finally went to see Dr. Pearl, and I was glad I did. He immediately diagnosed my problem, went through my treatment treatment options, and he got me back off sidelines. Not only that, he followed up with me and we were able to adjust when I saw improvement, but the pain didn't completely dissipate. He seemed to genuinely care about fixing my problems and, probably more important, he was knowledgeable enough to actually fix them. If you have a foot/ankle injury that's keeping you from being active or playing the sports you love, I would definitely recommend going to see Dr. Pearl. read more

My mum went in to see Dr. Pearl because she had a swollen foot. She had type II diabetes and this is a big deal. Not only did the doctor treat my mom with antibiotics, he requested blood labs on her. These blood labs resulted in my mother discovering that she had a very serious blood disease, which allowed her to start treatment. While she subsequently succumbed to the disease, Dr. Pearl was an amazing doctor and went above and beyond what I, personally, expect in a podiatrist. My mother loved working with him, was quite charmed, and very impressed with his experience, with his collegial relationship and affiliation with the Virginia Hospital Center and its doctors, and I knew that his care and bedside manner helped my mom get over her natural fear of doctors. Honestly, my mom and I were/are very grateful to both his primary job: taking care of feet; but also because he went above and beyond to help my mother in her general health. He was indeed vigilant. read more

I had to get a laser therapy treatment last week for an ingrown left toe-nail, and in truth Dr. Pearl's care was not only the best option but also the most frugal for my situation. Not only was he very delicate with my feet, but he was also very compassionate in giving honest feedback and advice in improving my overall nail-health as a woman seeking natural remedies while working at home and as an athlete. I felt that other local offices were really just trying to sell me their antifungal solutions or provide other ineffective routes for the care, but Dr. Pearl really took a closer look at it and I appreciate his consideration and expertise. While the office space isn't the most grandeur, I feel like many of these older reviews are too harsh (or perhaps they renovated recently). The other local podiatrist I went to in McLean had a much better-looking office, but the care was neither ideal nor targeted to my condition. The office from a glance seems to me to be just the perfect size for a single doctor taking care of one patient at a time, and it was also very clean. Scheduling an appointment also couldn't be easier, just give them a call and say a couple times when you'd be free, their receptionist will enter you into their system gladly and fast. The wait was also not that long and I could tell Dr. Pearl was really trying to be time-efficient as I walked-in since after arrival I entered the waiting room within just a few minutes. Overall, I'd say this experience was great and feel glad with sincerity that there are still a few doctors out there who are really sensitive and oriented towards the patient's needs. Highly recommended for anyone who doesn't want to empty their wallet. Looking forward to wearing my beautiful summer sandals again! read more

Had a great experience with Dr. Pearl. Having never needed or seen a podiatrist before, I wasn't sure what to expect. I'd gone to urgent care for what I thought was a broken toe and turned out to be a foreign object. Dr. Pearl was on the list of referrals from the urgent care doctor - they picked up right away when I called and were able to get me in the next morning (thank goodness). I was brought in right on time, and Dr. Pearl used a combination of the x-rays from urgent care, ultrasound, and in-office x-rays to locate the rock shard and extract it in that appointment. Wrapped it up well, and gave me guidance on getting around. The office was flexible on scheduling my follow-up since I was traveling, and my follow-up appointment was smooth. read more

Dr. Pearl is the guy to see if you have a sports injury. The guy seems to be an accomplished athlete and an avid weekend warrior in cycling. I have to say I was surprised when he was asking me what type of clips I used on my cycle. I have to say the appointment was rushed but I got what I came in for which as an answer and a solution. I think if he had it his way, he would only be dealing with sports related injuries but I guess that's not the way the wind blows. Check out his blog: docforjocks.blogspot.com/ read more

This was the worst Dr appointment I've ever had. First of all, the Dr was rude and condescending to his staff. It's very easy to over hear him in his very small office. All the staff seemed to not know anything, seemed like this was their first day. Once I saw the Dr he kept switching from me to another patient in another room. He kept jumping up and running in and out. It was very bizarre. He barely explained the issues he found with my feet. While I was in the office for about 40 minutes I spent about 90% of the time waiting for the dr to come back. I understand multitasking, but this was way overboard. He told me he'd work on my ingrown toenail when I came back in two weeks. I asked him a question about my toe before he ran out of the room again, and called his response from the hallway as he walked away. Incredibly rude. I went to another dr to try to solve the issues with my feet. The new dr fixed my toe in about 1 minute. It was a very strange experience, and I would not recommend anyone here. read more

I visited Dr. Pearl about six weeks ago to get some orthotics for my shoes. The staff was nice enough, as was Dr. Pearl, so I had a pretty good feeling about the visit. The assistant used a computerized tool to scan my feet and Dr. Pearl asked a few questions and took a few peeks at my hoofs. He said my orthotics would be ready in about 2.5 weeks and they'd give me a call when they arrive. I called last week (five weeks later) to check up on the status of my orthotics and the assistant said he would check on the status and call me back. No call. I called again a week later and the response was that "there was a computer glitch" and that the scans of my feet didn't make it to the lab. Thus, they didn't have my orthotics. And it took them six weeks and two phone calls from me for them to figure this out. Turrible, just turrible. UPDATE: After I wrote this review, Dr. Pearl called me to rectify the situation, so I changed the one-star review to three stars. The situation still leaves a bad taste but they did what they had to do to smooth things over. read more

You simply cannot find a better podiatrist in Virginia, DC, or elsewhere. Period. Dr. Ben Pearl (expert sports/surgery DPM) took my father in for a pretty bad case of onchyomyosis (nail fungus) that spread prolifically to all nails of both feet, and although other neighboring podiatrists in the area provided topical antifungal solutions that were not only overpriced but also not precisely targeted towards the nail's physiological issue, Dr. Pearl examined the condition with immense attention, far more so than any other podiatrist we have tried in Arlington; he really isolated the molecular aspects of the entire nail with advanced technology and even did some microscopy work in real-time to pinpoint the exact causation of the fungi that had been preventing long-term recovery. Also unlike other podiatrists, Dr. Pearl sagaciously explained in simple terms the actual science of why these fungi infection persist, and how one can maintain excellent health not only in this realm of practice but also others in regards to the lower foot and ankle extremity. Even better is that Dr. Pearl and his kind receptionist seem always willing to engage in constructive conversation with all patients; the office is well-maintained and they make the environment not only welcoming but also effective in getting patients in and out with a full understanding of what is happening to their feet, with the right treatment/cure(s) and course of action. Moreover, he is very open-minded and accessible (never had a doctor that had given such a high level of professionalism and consultation for any concerns... Dr. Pearl also gets straight to the point with your best interest in mind) and he is clearly passionate about his patient, always trying to understand their circumstances fully and honestly. In the case of my dad, who also happened to be suffering from some sort of lower-extremity pain near the heel, he noticed the arch was a bit off and also gave expert advice and an unbeatable price on mushy insoles to address this issue that my father had forgotten to mention himself. All of this undoubtedly demonstrates Dr. Pearl's excellence in Podiatric and preventative medicine. Overall, from my take, this is just a fantastic and personal private practice that exists to truly get you "back on your feet", physically and literally! I loved the environment over here and personally see myself coming to this private practice again should I ever have any issue with a lower extremity, especially since I'm an athlete. HIGHLY recommended, don't waste your time elsewhere! Overall, I would give this experience a solid A++. read more

HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE!!! I've just moved from California where I have had regular keryflex treatment every 2 months for 4 years. I scheduled an appointment with dr. Pearl. He just took a look at my nail, and then left. I was alone with his assistant...from the beginning of the procedure, she was uncertain what to do constantly asking me what would be the next step if I was doing it in California. I have done keryflex so many times that I could tell she didn't have any equipment for it. She had only one electric buffer for rough work, hurting so much my cuticles. It hurts so much, and I asked her to change the buffer and use the one for more precise work. She said this is the only one she had. I asked to talk to the doctor, but she told me he was somewhere in the building and couldn't come. Somehow she finished putting keryflex gel, and she was using UV lamp with no timer, calling the receptionist to alert her when 2 minutes expire. When she claimed the work is done, my toenail was red, bleeding, irritated and bumpy. I asked again to talk to the doctor, but she didn't allow me, telling me to send him an email. When it was time to pay, she said I need to pay for the nail + for the office visit $125(!!!). Paying because I should up in the office???? She said: "Ok, since we didn't do a good job and you are bleeding, you don't have to pay for the office visit!!!" Update: TWO days later my $170 worth nail is broken. read more

Dr. Pearl is amazing!!! Today I had my 1st session with Dr. Pearl and he was thorough with my options for my partial plantar tear. I am a competitive age group winner and I had to stop racing due to the pain in my forefoot. Dr. Pearl explained all the benefits of the EPAT Shock Wave Therapy and after 1 treatment I had less pain and felt like I could run a 5k race and win my division. Thank you for your expert advice and caring patient treatment. read more

Catch the staff on a good day and one gets the the exceptional care and diagnosis one needs. Dr. Pearl tries very hard to meet, greet , and supervise his staff. Thou when the office is full things get hairy like the toes and feet. He does an exceptional job of over compensating for all the staff and managing the madness. Loves what he does and is an avid runner/skier/bike rider oh and soccer also. What other health care professional stays on their feet and understands the bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons of the FOOT. He helped me when I slipped in the Arlington Safeway and did not lay on the floor on scream. Lesson learned always lay on the floor and scream. The treatments, the injections, the ultrasound, all have helped in my managed care without the use of opiates. There I am one individual who refuses to take meds for pain. I am saving up for the later years! A compassionate Dr. for your feet. read more

HORRIBLE. Do not go here. Dr. Pearl is reckless and irresponsible at best. Look him up on the Virginia Board of Medicine. https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/medicine/ Then click on "license lookup". Put in "Pearl" and select "Virginia". You'll see his name under Podiatry. Click "Yes" where it links you to "Additional Public Information". Then click "I have read and understand the information". Then read the 4 .pdfs. -Not qualified to perform the procedures he's performing. -Attempt at a blood transfusion. -Restricted from performing procedures without supervision but continued to do so. It goes on. I wish I had known all this before I allowed him to treat me. I wish I could say that was it. He allowed a high school student to treat me and he introduced this person, Axel, as an "Intern". In medicine there *are* Interns, but he meant it in another misleading way, as this person was in scrubs and a medical lab coat. He had this person do my x-rays, change my bandages, discuss my surgery with me, etc. I never went back to even allow Dr. Pearl or this CHILD to take my stitches out. I called everyone I could think of though, including the hospital. He should have his medical license taken away, and as you can see has faced disciplinary hearings with the state. It's HORRIFYING. There are many, many other doctors in the area. DO NOT GO THERE. read more

Dr. Pearl was able to see me and accommodate my schedule on short notice. However, he made an incredibly strange and inappropriate comment during the painful operation, saying, "You're going to have babies one day. This is nothing." I told him it was inappropriate, especially considering I was in severe pain. He did apologize but it was a strange appointment and his consultations are a little on the pricey side for a 5 minute talk about an obvious problem. Had the minor surgery not been well underway, I probably would have left. read more

Shockwave Therapy. Dr. Ben Pearl performs it and the results have been extraordinary for my tendonosis. Fast, easy, quick visits, in and out exactly how I want a Doctors Appointment to go. read more

Dr. Pearl has deep expertise in sports medicine. I have sought his successful treatment of my Plantar fasciitis. He is focused on individual care and takes a deep interest in each patient. As an avid runner, skier, soccer and hiker gives me the confidence to seek is treatment again should I need it. read more

Recently, I was researching some alternative treatment options for an old heel injury that had flared up while teaching a yoga class. I have tried ART and Graston technique with minimal success. I was interested in trying ESWT and Dr Pearl came highly recommended. After only a few sessions and some proper footwear (the office carries some great options) I am very pleased with my results. I am back in the studio with no pain! Thank you Dr Pearl and staff for your quick attention and willingness to work with my hectic schedule! read more

I had an ingrown toenail removed by Dr. Pearl in December. He has a brusque bedside manner, kept me waiting 30-40 minutes each time I showed up, didn't explain the procedure or possible complications, had the procedure visible to me the whole time and even had me time part of it with my own watch when his assistant couldn't find one. He left the door open during the procedure, where I could hear him yelling at his staff (for other matters) in the hallway. The procedure was far more painful than when I'd had it done previously. I could see my toe the whole time cut up like a Christmas turkey, with sticks sticking out of it for a while (for the cauterizing agent), and blood dripping down it both from the anesthetic injections and later from the cutting -- none of which he cleaned up at any point until the procedure was over; there was just blood dripping down it for the 15 or 20 minutes that the whole thing took. I don't consider myself especially squeamish or sensitive to pain. I get a lot of dental work done -- lots of drilling, pulling, etc, and am not bothered by it. And I'm not a hypochondriac -- I tried to let this toe heal on its own for months before I finally relented and went to a doctor. But this was a stress-inducing situation, and since I had little control over it and wasn't told what to expect, either in terms of the procedure or post-op complications (I'd had it done once before, years earlier, but the doctor did it out of my sight, and there were no follow-up complications) -- because of all that, I got sort of a "deer in the headlights" reaction during the procedure, and I didn't get the sense that he and his staff knew what they were doing, but once the procedure was underway I was more or less at their mercy. After the procedure, my toe stayed numb the whole day, much past the one hour he'd said it would, making it difficult to walk. He was slow to respond when I tried to contact him, and given how the procedure had gone, I decided to go to the ER in case there had been complications that might turn out to be permanent. The ER doc said there was likely nerve damage from the anesthetic injection. The numbness went away by the next day. Four months later, the toe itself is still healing; the side of the toenail that was operated on angles in rather sharply, and the nail itself has a large dent in the middle, as if it had been whacked with a hammer. Hopefully that will eventually grow out. Perhaps all of this is normal -- who knows. It certainly doesn't jibe with my previous experience getting this procedure and, more importantly, I wouldn't know because of Dr. Pearl's poor communication before and after this procedure. The prolonged numbness I experienced may well be a normal complication, but he hadn't mentioned the possibility beforehand, so it certainly concerned me at the time. Given all this, I contacted his office a few weeks after the procedure explaining my concerns and stating that it seemed only fair for him to pay the portion of the ER visit that wasn't covered by insurance. I contacted again a month later, and now a month after that have no response. The amount involved is too small to pursue this legally, and it was mostly as a matter of principle that I asked. You've been warned -- also check out the reviews on other doctor ratings sites like ratemds, where numerous other people seem to have had similar experiences. I wish now that I'd checked those before I chose this doctor. read more