If you live in or near Golden Glades and need specialized foot and ankle care, this guide is written for you. It explains the services offered by LMD Podiatry under board-certified Dr. Lauren Dabakaroff, and helps you understand what to expect, how conditions are diagnosed and treated, and when to seek care. Click here for more information about Golden Glades
LMD Podiatry is led by Dr. Lauren Dabakaroff, a board-certified podiatrist trained at Mount Sinai. You’ll find both surgical and non-surgical expertise, along with a patient-centered approach designed to make your visits comfortable and efficient. The practice emphasizes state-of-the-art diagnostics, same-day appointments, and a friendly environment focused on your foot health.
Choosing a local podiatrist means faster appointments, better continuity of care, and easier follow-up when you need it. When you choose a nearby clinic, your transportation time is reduced and it’s simpler to attend follow-up visits or urgent same-day appointments. LMD Podiatry combines local accessibility with advanced training, so you don’t have to compromise on quality to get convenient care.
When you see a board-certified podiatrist in your community, you get focused expertise on foot and ankle conditions that general practitioners may not treat frequently. You’ll also benefit from targeted diagnostics and treatment options tailored to your lifestyle—whether you’re athletic, work on your feet, or manage chronic conditions like diabetes. The ability to get same-day appointments at many clinics reduces the delay between noticing a problem and starting appropriate management.
Dr. Lauren Dabakaroff is board-certified and trained at Mount Sinai, which is known for rigorous clinical training and up-to-date practices. You can expect evidence-based care from someone who combines hospital-level training with a personable, patient-focused approach. Her background means you’ll receive skilled assessments, options for both conservative and surgical treatments, plus coordinated care when needed.
Dr. Dabakaroff emphasizes patient education and shared decision-making, so you’ll understand your diagnosis and the pros and cons of different treatments. The practice strives to create a friendly environment, where you can ask questions and feel confident in the care plan. Communication is prioritized so you know what to expect before, during, and after any procedure.
Podiatrists treat a wide range of foot and ankle issues, and LMD Podiatry is no exception. You’ll find care for pediatric feet, diabetic foot problems, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, fractures, warts, neuromas, and more. Each condition has unique signs that help guide diagnosis and treatment.
Common problems like heel pain, bunions, and tendonitis are often manageable with conservative care, but some cases require procedures. Early assessment helps you avoid prolonged discomfort or worsening deformity. The clinic uses diagnostic tools to clarify the cause and recommends an individualized treatment plan.
When you come in with foot or ankle concerns, the clinic uses modern diagnostic approaches such as digital X-rays, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and gait analysis. These tools help your provider see bone structure, soft tissue issues, and biomechanical contributors to pain. Accurate diagnostics are essential to selecting the right therapies and preventing recurrence.
These tools are often available in-office, meaning you can get answers and treatment plans sooner.
A large portion of foot and ankle problems respond well to non-surgical care, and you’ll often try conservative options before considering procedures. Non-surgical approaches include orthotics, physical therapy, medication, immobilization, injections, and footwear modifications. These treatments aim to reduce pain, restore function, and prevent progression.
Your provider will tailor non-surgical plans to your condition, activity level, and treatment goals.
Surgery can be the best option when conservative measures fail or when structural issues require correction. You’ll be counseled about risks, expected recovery, and alternatives before consenting to any operation. LMD Podiatry offers surgical solutions for conditions like bunions, hammertoes, severe tendon tears, and complicated fractures.
Surgical decisions are made collaboratively, and the clinic focuses on optimizing recovery and functional outcomes.
Children’s feet have unique needs because they are growing structures, and early intervention can prevent long-term problems. You’ll find pediatric assessments for flat feet, toe-walking, ingrown nails, warts, and sports injuries. Treatment emphasizes conservative, growth-friendly approaches whenever possible.
During a pediatric visit, the podiatrist examines gait, foot structure, and shoe wear while discussing developmental milestones and activity levels. Interventions may include simple stretching routines, observation, orthotics, or minor procedures when necessary. Parents are involved in decision-making and receive clear instructions for home care.
If you have diabetes, your foot health deserves special attention because of the risk of neuropathy, circulation problems, and infection. You’ll get comprehensive diabetic foot care that includes regular exams, wound care, debridement, and education to prevent ulcers and complications. Early and proactive podiatric management reduces the chance of serious outcomes.
The clinic emphasizes timely intervention because diabetic wounds can progress quickly without proper care.
Achilles tendon problems are common among active people and those with sudden increases in activity. You’ll be assessed for pain, weakness, and swelling near the heel, and treatment is staged from rest and physical therapy to injections or surgery in severe cases. Early management improves outcomes and reduces the chance of rupture.
Non-surgical measures include eccentric strengthening exercises, heel lifts, activity modification, and orthoses. If conservative care fails or if there is a significant tear, surgical repair or debridement may be recommended. Rehabilitation is crucial after any intervention to restore strength and prevent re-injury.
Bunions cause visible deformity at the base of the big toe and often lead to pain and difficulty with shoes. You’ll have options ranging from splints and padding to custom orthotics and, when necessary, surgical correction. The aim is to relieve pain and restore alignment for better long-term function.
If your bunion causes persistent pain that limits your life, surgery may provide the best long-term relief. Less invasive measures may help while you explore surgical timing, especially if you’re not ready for downtime. Your podiatrist will explain different surgical techniques and recovery expectations so you can choose what’s best for you.
Plantar fasciitis is a frequent cause of heel pain and usually responds well to conservative care. You’ll receive advice on stretching, footwear adjustments, orthotics, and possibly injections or shockwave therapy for stubborn cases. Recovery often takes time, but a structured approach helps you get back to normal activities.
These measures help you manage symptoms and lower the risk of chronic pain.
Ingrown toenails can be painful and lead to infection if not treated. You’ll get conservative care like soaking and proper trimming, and if the problem recurs or becomes severely infected, a minor surgical procedure to remove part of the nail may be recommended. The clinic can provide in-office procedures under local anesthesia for quick relief.
Proper nail-cutting technique, wearing roomy shoes, and prompt care for tight or painful edges reduce the likelihood of repeat ingrown nails. If you have conditions that impair healing, such as diabetes, professional care is especially important to prevent complications.
If you’ve had a fall, twist, or direct trauma to your foot or ankle, prompt evaluation helps ensure proper healing. You’ll receive urgent assessment, imaging, and appropriate immobilization, with surgical treatment when necessary. Quick and appropriate management reduces the risk of long-term disability.
Initial care may include splinting, casting, or use of a walking boot, along with pain control and instructions for weight-bearing. Follow-up includes repeat imaging, rehabilitation, and, if needed, surgical fixation. Your provider will explain timelines for healing and return to activities.
Morton’s neuroma causes sharp, burning pain between the toes and can be aggravated by tight shoes or high heels. Non-surgical options like shoe changes, orthotics, and steroid injections often help. If pain persists, surgical removal of the neuroma can provide lasting relief.
You’ll typically describe burning or electric sensations that worsen with weight-bearing. Initial treatments target inflammation and mechanical causes; surgery is reserved for refractory cases. Post-treatment rehabilitation focuses on restoring comfortable walking patterns.
Plantar warts can be stubborn but are usually treatable with office procedures and topical therapies. You’ll receive options such as cryotherapy, debridement, topical medications, or immunologic treatments depending on the wart’s size and location. Persistence and follow-up are often necessary for complete resolution.
Treatment depends on how long the wart has been present, its thickness, and how it affects your activities. The clinic will tailor a plan that balances effectiveness and skin preservation. Multiple visits may be required for full clearance.
Keeping your feet healthy involves proper footwear, nail care, skin moisturization, and regular self-checks. You’ll be encouraged to adopt routines that match your activity level and any chronic conditions you have. Preventive care reduces injury risk and helps you stay active.
Small daily habits protect your long-term foot function.
Your first appointment will include a detailed history, physical exam, and often imaging or diagnostic testing as indicated. You’ll discuss symptoms, previous treatments, activity level, and goals to shape a personalized treatment plan. The clinic aims to make your visit efficient and informative so you leave with a clear next step.
You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about recovery time, risks, and expected outcomes.
LMD Podiatry offers same-day appointments to address urgent foot and ankle concerns promptly. You’ll appreciate the ability to get timely care for painful, acute, or worsening problems without long waits. The clinic also handles scheduled follow-ups and preoperative planning for planned procedures.
Call the clinic at 954-680-7133 to schedule a consultation or to request same-day availability for urgent issues. When you call, be ready to provide basic information about your symptoms and medical history to help staff match you with the appropriate visit type. If you have urgent symptoms like severe swelling, loss of motion, or suspected fractures, mention that so you can be prioritized.
You’ll want to check whether your insurance plan covers podiatric services and any surgical procedures you might need. Many practices accept major insurers and provide transparent billing practices. The clinic staff can help you understand coverage, co-pays, and preauthorization requirements.
Asking these questions up front helps avoid surprise bills and keeps your focus on recovery.
Whether you undergo a minor in-office procedure or a more involved surgery, you’ll follow a rehabilitation plan to restore function. You’ll be guided through wound care, activity restrictions, and physical therapy if needed. The goal is to help you regain mobility safely and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Your provider will give a personalized recovery timeline and support resources.
You should seek prompt podiatric attention for severe pain, open wounds, possible fractures, sudden loss of function, or signs of infection like spreading redness, fever, or drainage. Timely care prevents complications and can be limb-saving in severe cases. Same-day appointments help you get care when time matters.
If you’re unsure whether your issue is urgent, calling 954-680-7133 to describe symptoms can help triage your needs.
You’ll likely have questions about treatment risks, recovery times, success rates, and how to prevent recurrence. Common FAQs include whether orthotics really work, how long bunion surgery takes to heal, and what to expect for diabetic wound care. The clinic encourages questions during visits and provides educational resources to help you make informed choices.
Clear answers tailored to your situation make decision-making easier.
| Condition | Common non-surgical treatments | When surgery may be needed |
|---|---|---|
| Plantar fasciitis | Stretching, orthotics, night splints, injections | Persistent pain >6–12 months despite conservative care |
| Bunions | Padding, shoe modifications, orthotics | Severe pain, progressive deformity, functional limitation |
| Achilles tendinopathy | Eccentric exercises, heel lifts, immobilization | Significant tears, failed conservative treatment |
| Diabetic foot ulcer | Offloading, debridement, wound dressings | Non-healing ulcers, deep infection, exposed bone |
| Morton’s neuroma | Shoe changes, orthotics, steroid injections | Persistent burning pain, failed conservative care |
| Ingrown toenail | Soaks, conservative trimming | Recurrent ingrown nail, chronic infection — partial nail removal |
This table helps you quickly compare typical approaches and when surgical options might be considered.
You’ll often find reassurance in real-world examples of patients who regained pain-free walking or returned to activities after treatment. Testimonials typically highlight attentive care, clear communication, and effective outcomes. They can help you feel confident when choosing a podiatric provider.
Patients frequently comment on improvements in daily comfort, reduced reliance on pain medication, and better mobility after following a tailored treatment plan. They also note appreciation for staff friendliness, efficient scheduling, and thorough explanations of care.
Before your visit, gather a list of current medications, a brief medical history, and notes about your symptoms—when they started and what makes them better or worse. You may also want to bring shoes that reflect your typical activity level and any prior imaging or reports. Being prepared speeds up evaluation and best informs treatment planning.
Preparation empowers you to get the most out of your visit.
Taking care of foot and ankle problems early prevents chronic pain and functional decline, so don’t postpone evaluation if symptoms persist. You can call LMD Podiatry at 954-680-7133 to schedule an appointment or request same-day availability for urgent issues. Acting sooner often makes treatment simpler and more effective.
To arrange a consultation or learn more about services, call 954-680-7133. The staff can help you with appointment types, insurance questions, and pre-visit instructions. If you need urgent care, mention the nature and severity of your symptoms to prioritize scheduling.
If you live near Golden Glades and need foot or ankle care, LMD Podiatry led by Dr. Lauren Dabakaroff offers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options. You’ll find pediatric and diabetic care, conservative therapies, surgical solutions when necessary, and same-day appointment availability. The clinic combines Mount Sinai-level training with a patient-centered approach to help you reclaim pain-free movement.
If foot or ankle pain is limiting your activities, interfering with sleep, or showing signs of infection or deformity, it’s wise to seek professional evaluation. Call 954-680-7133 to set up an appointment and take the next step toward healthier feet.
Board certified in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, Dr. Dabakaroff completed her training in Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Dr. Dabakaroff has been published in textbooks and has done research for various foot conditions. Dr. Dabakaroff brings with her new methods, both surgical and non-surgical, for treating multiple foot and ankle ailments.
At University Foot and Ankle Center, the philosophy is simple. We will provide a friendly, warm, “cutting edge,” “state of the art, ” office for our patients. Dr. Lauren Dabakaroff uses the latest techniques available, and methods to relieve foot, ankle or knee pain without surgery. We provide all testing and diagnostics in our office. Same day appointments are available.
