If you need specialized podiatric care, LMD Podiatry in Tequesta offers a range of services led by board-certified Dr. Lauren Dabakaroff. You’ll find both surgical and non-surgical solutions, Mount Sinai training behind the clinical decisions, and a focus on quick access through same-day appointments. This article explains what you can expect, how common conditions are evaluated and treated, and how to prepare for a visit so your foot health improves quickly and safely. Click here for more information about Tequesta
You’ll want to know who’s caring for your feet. Dr. Lauren Dabakaroff is a board-certified podiatrist with training from Mount Sinai, bringing advanced expertise in foot and ankle surgery as well as non-surgical management. LMD Podiatry emphasizes state-of-the-art diagnostics, a patient-friendly environment, and personalized care plans for patients of all ages.
You’ll appreciate that care is tailored whether you’re managing a chronic problem like diabetic foot disease or need same-day attention for an acute issue.
If your feet or ankles cause persistent pain, limit daily activities, or show signs of infection, it’s time to see a podiatrist. You shouldn’t have to tolerate discomfort that affects work, exercise, or simply walking around your neighborhood.
Look for symptoms such as ongoing heel pain, swelling that won’t resolve, wounds that don’t heal, numbness or tingling, changes in gait, or deformities like bunions. Early evaluation often prevents progression and may reduce the need for invasive procedures.
You should seek urgent podiatric care if you notice sudden severe pain after an injury, signs of infection (redness, warmth, fever), or a diabetic foot ulcer. These signs can indicate conditions that need immediate intervention to prevent complications.
Same-day appointments at LMD Podiatry are designed to give you timely care when urgent concerns arise.
You’ll encounter many conditions that podiatrists treat routinely. Below is a summary of common issues you might experience and the typical reasons they occur.
Any of these conditions can reduce your mobility, affect your balance, and increase your risk for additional injuries. You’ll often find that addressing the problem early improves outcomes and shortens recovery time.
You’ll get precise diagnoses through modern diagnostic tools. LMD Podiatry uses state-of-the-art diagnostics to make accurate, efficient treatment decisions.
When diagnostics pinpoint the exact source of your symptoms, treatments become more targeted. You’ll avoid unnecessary procedures and receive interventions that address the root cause rather than just masking pain.
You’ll often start with conservative care before surgery is considered. Non-surgical approaches can be highly effective for many conditions and are tailored to your lifestyle and recovery goals.
You’ll work with your podiatrist to track progress, adjust orthotics or therapy plans, and set realistic timelines. Many patients see significant improvement within weeks to months, depending on the condition and adherence to recommended therapies.
Surgery is considered when non-surgical treatments don’t provide sufficient relief or when an anatomical correction is necessary. Dr. Dabakaroff brings advanced surgical training and experience to address complex cases.
Common surgical options include:
You’ll receive a detailed assessment, including imaging and functional evaluation, before any recommendation for surgery. The decision is collaborative — you’ll review risks, benefits, recovery timelines, and alternatives so you can make an informed choice that fits your life.
If you have children, you’ll want specialized care that understands growth-related issues. Pediatric podiatry can correct problems early and prevent lifelong issues.
Common pediatric concerns:
You’ll find an environment that’s sensitive to children’s needs and developmental stages. Dr. Dabakaroff and the LMD Podiatry team evaluate growth patterns and recommend conservative or surgical options only when necessary, focusing on long-term function and comfort.
If you have diabetes, your foot health is a priority because neuropathy and vascular issues increase your risk for infection and ulceration. You’ll benefit from regular podiatric exams and tailored care plans.
Key components of diabetic foot care:
You’ll have access to wound care expertise, rapid intervention for new problems, and tools to monitor healing. Timely podiatric care significantly reduces the risk of major complications like amputation.
You’ll find it helpful to see a concise overview of common conditions and the usual treatment paths. This table summarizes typical approaches you might expect.
| Condition | Typical First-Line Treatments | When Surgery Might Be Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Plantar Fasciitis | Stretching, orthotics, night splints, physical therapy, shockwave | Chronic pain after 6-12 months of conservative care |
| Bunions | Wider footwear, orthotics, padding, injections | Progressive deformity causing pain or functional limitation |
| Achilles Tendonitis | Rest, physical therapy, eccentric strengthening, PRP | Partial or full tendon tear, chronic non-healing tendon degeneration |
| Diabetic Foot Ulcer | Wound care, offloading, antibiotics if infected, frequent follow-up | Non-healing ulcer with deep infection or ischemia |
| Ingrown Toenail | Soaking, topical antibiotics, partial nail avulsion | Recurrent infections or severe ingrown nail |
| Ankle Sprain | RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), bracing, therapy | Persistent instability or significant ligament rupture |
| Fractures | Immobilization, casting, functional bracing | Displaced fractures or those that fail to heal in proper alignment |
You’ll see that many conditions start with conservative measures. If these don’t work or if structural damage exists, surgical correction may be recommended. Your specific plan will always be personalized.
You’ll want to come prepared so your visit is efficient and productive. Expect a focused history and physical exam, targeted imaging if needed, and a clear plan.
Typical first-visit sequence:
Prepare a list of symptoms, when they started, activities that worsen or improve them, and any prior treatments you’ve tried. You’ll benefit from asking about recovery expectations, home care, and return-to-activity timelines.
If you need rapid access, LMD Podiatry offers same-day appointments to address acute pain, suspected infections, or sudden injuries. You’ll appreciate prompt attention that can prevent problems from worsening.
Same-day visits are ideal for:
Call 954-680-7133 to request same-day availability. You’ll be guided through what to bring and how to prepare for immediate evaluation.
If surgery is recommended, you’ll get a clear roadmap. Pre-operative planning includes medical clearance, pre-op instructions, and a discussion about anesthesia options.
Typical pre-op and recovery steps:
You’ll notice that recovery varies by procedure. Minor procedures like nail avulsions may have quick recoveries (days to weeks), while reconstructive surgeries can take several months for full recovery. Physical therapy and adherence to post-op instructions speed healing.
You’ll prevent many problems with the right footwear and preventive strategies. Shoes that support your arch, fit well, and match your activity level make a big difference.
Foot care basics:
You’ll keep feet healthier by managing weight, doing strength and stretching exercises, and switching to activity-appropriate footwear. Regular podiatric checkups help catch problems before they become severe.
You’ll want clarity on costs and coverage. LMD Podiatry typically accepts major insurance plans, and the team can help verify benefits and pre-authorization when needed.
Questions to ask your insurer:
Call the clinic ahead of time to confirm insurance acceptance and any self-pay options. You’ll benefit from clear expectations so there are no surprises when you receive care.
You’ll likely have practical questions; here are answers to common concerns.
Q: How quickly will I feel better? A: Recovery time depends on your condition. Some patients get relief in days with proper treatment, while others may need weeks to months for full improvement.
Q: Are surgical procedures painful? A: Procedures are done with anesthesia for comfort. Post-op pain is managed with medications and typically improves steadily over days to weeks.
Q: Can orthotics fix every problem? A: Orthotics help many mechanical issues but aren’t a cure-all. They’re most effective when paired with therapy, footwear changes, and activity modification.
Q: What if I have diabetes? A: You should have regular podiatric exams and immediate attention for any wounds. Coordinated care reduces risk of complications.
Q: Are pediatric issues reversible? A: Many pediatric concerns respond well to early intervention. You’ll see better outcomes when issues are identified and managed during growth.
You’ll get timely care by calling the clinic. For consultations, same-day appointments, and follow-up, call 954-680-7133. The staff can guide you on what to bring, how to prepare, and whether you should come in the same day for urgent concerns.
Bring your ID, insurance card, list of medications, and any prior imaging or medical records related to your foot or ankle. You’ll also want athletic shoes or the footwear that contributes to your symptoms, if relevant.
After treatment, you’ll focus on gradual activity resumption, proper footwear, and home exercises. Long-term maintenance may include periodic orthotic adjustments, monitoring for recurrence, and lifestyle modifications to reduce risk of future problems.
Practical tips for post-treatment success:
You’ll prevent many complications with routine follow-up. Regular adjustments and early detection of problems can keep you active and minimize the need for more invasive interventions later.
You deserve foot and ankle care that’s fast, effective, and tailored to your needs. LMD Podiatry, led by board-certified Dr. Lauren Dabakaroff, offers the expertise and technology to manage pediatric and adult conditions, diabetic foot concerns, Achilles Tendonitis, bunions, and more. If you’re ready to address pain, correct a deformity, or get preventive guidance, call 954-680-7133 to schedule a consultation or request a same-day appointment.
You’ll get a personalized plan, clear explanations, and compassionate care designed to restore mobility and comfort so you can get back to the activities you enjoy.
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.
