This Podiatry center has a new MD. Dr. Stephen Haynam took over the practice and I was worried. But my first appointment with Dr, Haynam showed me, I had nothing to worry about. I have horrible trigger toes, and I have been having an increasingly hard time walking for any distance as my balance and curled toes were hindering me. I went into the doctors office and the first thing he did was make a special pair of shoe inserts for me. We agreed that I would try them and see how they worked. They worked very well, but my toes still rubbed against the top of my shoes. As the doctor had requested, I no longer went barefoot. But open shoes such as flip flops or sandals were the only comfortable shoes. Even my favorite tennis shoe gave me blisters on the tops of my toes. I went back to the office and Dr. Haynam and I talked about the options and alternatives for me. It came down to being able to wear closed toed shoes comfortably without blisters forming. He also instructed me on proper skin care, and ensured that I inspected my feet everyday. I have no feeling in the bottoms of my toes due to type 2 diabetes.
We decided to do a tendon release for all my toes except my great toe on each foot. It was a quick procedure, no pain really, as he used a local anesthetic and a sharp needle to release the tendons. No incision, no recovery time, I walked out of his office and drove home ten minutes after the procedure.
I am a very happy camper! I have better balance now, and my toes do not curl under. I have a larger flat surface to balance on and walking is getting easier.
I am going back to ask him to do my great toes as well, as I am still wearing blister bandaids 50% of the time. I did not want to do all my toes at once and the doctor was fine with working in stages.
I worry about infections, and split skin, blisters and painful heels. I have little to none of those problems now, and I am thrilled to say my feet are in the best shape ever. I even went and got a pedicure. I was always too embarrassed to have one done as I had no control of my toes curling under. Not embarrassed any more. I have recommended him to some of my daughters friends, one who broke her back and has sensory issues with her feet.
And just to add a smile to how sharp the doctor's skills are, he's a nice guy. Always willing to chat a little, to break the ice, happy to hear how his patients are doing, and really does want you to check back with him, good results or not so great. I'm never changing my podiatrist. I am happy and becoming more and more secure in my balance and walking. read more