Dubuque Podiatry specializes in the medical care of the foot, ankle and lower leg. The practice consists of five board-certified physicians: Dr. Michael Arnz, Dr. Robert Kelsey, Dr. Nicole Jedlicka, Dr. Kara Franzen and Dr. Kelsey Harvey, along with a professionally trained support staff.
The practice has offices in Dubuque, Peosta, Dyersville, Guttenberg and Maquoketa. When necessary, providers perform surgery both at UnityPoint Heath-Finley Hospital in Dubuque and the Upper Mississippi Surgery Center in Hazel Green, Wis.
“Dubuque Podiatry has been part of the community for almost 50 years, and we are available and willing to provide care,” Jedlicka said. “Each of the five providers has a specialty, and all of them treat other foot and ankle problems as well.”
Among the foot and ankle issues treated at Dubuque Podiatry are:
Plantar Fasciitis
An inflammation that occurs when the plantar fascia (the band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes) gets inflamed through an injury or overuse. It can be especially painful after extended periods of standing or sitting, or first thing in the morning, and can affect both feet at the same time, causing severe mobility issues.
Plantar Warts
Typically found on the weight-bearing areas of the foot, which often resemble a callus or thickened skin. Like common warts, they contain blood vessels, which may appear as tiny black dots. They can grow in clusters and even grow inward, often under a layer of thick skin, and can impact mobility.
Bunions
A protuberance at the base of the big toe that can be painful, especially when your shoe starts to rub on it.
Hammer toes
Occur when one or more of your toes develop an abnormal bend at the middle joint, creating a hammer-like appearance that can significantly impact your daily comfort and mobility. This condition affects approximately 60 million Americans.
Bone Spurs
Smooth, extra bone formations that develop along the edges of bones, particularly where bones meet at joints. Bone spurs affect more than 40% of those over age 60.
Ingrown Toenails
Occur when one or both corners or sides of a toenail curve and grow into the flesh, causing redness and pain.
Osteoarthritis
It can affect any of the 26 bones and 30 joints in each foot, as well as ankle joints. As you age, these joints wear down, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, skin discoloration or tenderness to the touch.
Dubuque Podiatry’s physicians also provide care for issues like arch disorders, fallen arches, corns, heel pain, arthritis and gait problems, some of which can be addressed by fitting you with a custom orthotic.
The process includes measurements and scans, as well as studying your gait, arch shape and foot pressure. A mold is made, followed by inserts for your shoes to help correct and support your foot much better than store-bought, generic inserts can.
Shoes themselves play a key role and should be purchased from somewhere that properly measures customers’ feet, like Brown’s Shoe Fit Co. or The Shoe Shack in Dubuque.
“The soles of shoes today wear out sooner than they used to, so you are not getting the support you need,” Jedlicka said.
People with diabetes have unique foot care challenges, including neuropathy, as diabetes injures the nerves so people can’t feel their feet. Jedlicka recommends that diabetics see their podiatrist every three months to test vascular supply.
According to Jedlicka, there are several preventative measures you can take to avoid foot issues.
“Inspect your feet daily, including between your toes,” she said. “Look for open sores or skin problems.”
Jedlicka recommends seeing a doctor immediately for an open sore, and if you can no longer see the bottom of your feet, try using a mirror. After a bath or shower, be sure your toes and feet are dry before putting socks on, as fungus loves a warm, moist environment.
Most insurance companies will cover podiatry appointments and treatments but check with yours to be sure. Dubuque podiatry will work with you if there is an issue. You can even make your own appointments, as a referral from a primary care provider is not required.
Cindy Kafer highly recommends Dubuque Podiatry, saying, “The care there is unmatched. They are highly professional, incredibly compassionate and truly dedicated to helping families heal. From broken bones to joint replacements, this office has taken amazing care of my family”.
Lori Hellerud has been a patient at Dubuque Podiatry for many years, as has her elderly mother.
“Dr. Jedlicka is the best by far. She is highly trained and has the best outcomes,” Hellerud said. “Get an opinion from her and I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!”
Foot pain is not something to ignore. By trying to “tough it out,” you could be creating more serious problems. Dubuque Podiatry offers care that can help alleviate pain and improve the quality of your life.
Dubuque Podiatry is located on the first floor of 1500 Delhi, Suite 2200; phone number 563-557-5930. You can visit their website at DubuquePodiatry.com.
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