If you live in The Acreage and are looking after your feet, this is meant for you. LMD Podiatry, led by board-certified Dr. Lauren Dabakaroff, offers a wide range of clinical and surgical services to help you maintain mobility and comfort. Click here for more information about The Acreage
Your feet are the foundation for almost every activity you do, and when they hurt, everything else suffers. Getting specialized care from a trained podiatrist helps you address problems sooner, prevent complications, and return to your routines faster.
Dr. Lauren Dabakaroff is a board-certified podiatrist with surgical and nonsurgical experience, including advanced training at Mount Sinai. LMD Podiatry emphasizes state-of-the-art diagnostics, same-day appointments, and a friendly environment where your concerns are prioritized.
Knowing common foot and ankle conditions helps you recognize when to seek professional care. Many of these issues become easier to treat when caught early, and you’ll feel better physically and mentally once pain or dysfunction is addressed.
Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury of the large tendon at the back of your ankle and can cause pain with activity and stiffness in the morning. Treatment can range from physical therapy and orthotics to injections or surgical repair depending on severity.
A bunion is a bony bump at the base of your big toe that can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty fitting shoes comfortably. Conservative measures like padding, footwear changes, and custom orthotics can help, and surgical correction is an option if conservative care fails.
If you have diabetes, your feet require close monitoring because neuropathy and poor circulation increase your risk of ulcers and infections. Regular podiatric exams, wound care, and patient education can prevent complications and preserve limb health.
Children can have unique foot problems such as flat feet, in-toeing, or heel pain that affect development and activity. Early evaluation guides whether simple measures—like stretches or orthotics—are enough or if further treatment is required.
Plantar fasciitis causes sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning, which can interrupt your daily habits. A combination of stretching, night splints, orthotics, and targeted therapies often relieves symptoms and restores function.
Ingrown toenails can be intensely painful and prone to infection if not treated properly, which may limit walking or wearing shoes. In-office procedures, including partial nail removal with appropriate aftercare, typically resolve the issue quickly.
Sprains and fractures require timely assessment because improper healing can lead to chronic pain or instability. Advanced imaging and specialized casting or surgical fixation ensure you get the appropriate treatment for healing and return to activity.
When you come to LMD Podiatry, you’ll find a comprehensive set of services tailored to your needs. The practice focuses on accurate diagnosis, efficient treatment planning, and compassionate care.
Accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment, and LMD Podiatry uses modern imaging and clinical testing. From digital x-rays to ultrasound and gait analysis, these tools help target the source of your problem.
When pain or a new problem arises, you don’t want to wait for weeks. LMD Podiatry offers same-day appointment options when available so you can get assessed and start a treatment plan promptly.
You’ll receive a personalized treatment plan that considers both non-surgical methods and surgical solutions when necessary. Dr. Dabakaroff is trained in foot and ankle surgery and will discuss risks, benefits, and recovery for any procedure recommended.
Whether you’re bringing in a child with shoe-fit concerns or you’re an older adult worried about diabetic foot care, the practice offers age-appropriate approaches. Every stage of life needs different preventive strategies and treatments.
Managing wounds in diabetic patients is critical to preventing infection and preserving limbs. LMD Podiatry provides wound debridement, infection control strategies, and a coordinated plan to support healing.
Custom orthotics can correct mechanical problems and relieve pressure points that cause pain. You’ll receive guidance on off-the-shelf or custom devices as well as shoe recommendations tailored to your foot type and activity level.
Understanding how treatments work helps you feel more confident when discussing options with your podiatrist. Below are common treatment strategies and what they aim to accomplish.
Conservative therapies include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, splints, and orthotics designed to offload painful areas. These measures often resolve mild to moderate conditions without the need for surgery.
Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation in conditions like plantar fasciitis or bursitis, offering short- to medium-term pain relief. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or viscosupplementation may be offered in select cases to promote healing.
When conservative care doesn’t provide lasting relief, surgery might be the most reliable option to correct deformities or repair tissue. Dr. Dabakaroff’s surgical training at Mount Sinai covers a range of procedures for bunions, tendon repairs, fracture fixation, and more.
Surgery is only one step, and rehab helps you regain strength, range of motion, and safe return to activities. Your recovery plan will include wound care, progressive weight-bearing instructions, and physical therapy when indicated.
Showing up for your first podiatry appointment can feel stressful, but knowing the steps helps you prepare. The goal is to identify the problem, explain treatment options, and get you started on a plan tailored to your needs.
You’ll be asked about your symptoms, prior treatments, medical history, and any medications you’re taking so the doctor has a full picture of your health. Providing details about activity level, footwear, and symptom timeline helps with accurate diagnosis.
The physical exam will focus on your gait, foot structure, alignment, skin and nail condition, and specific provocative tests for pain sources. If needed, the provider will order imaging such as digital x-rays or ultrasound to clarify the diagnosis.
After assessment, the doctor will explain the diagnosis in plain language and outline treatment options, including timelines and expected outcomes. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and choose the approach that best fits your lifestyle and goals.
Choosing the right treatment depends on the severity of your condition, your goals, and how previous treatments have worked. You’ll work with the provider to weigh risks and benefits and decide on the most sensible path forward.
If your symptoms are mild or newly developed, non-surgical therapies often are preferred first because they have lower immediate risk. Non-invasive measures are also ideal if you have medical conditions that make surgery risky.
When structural deformities, persistent pain, or recurrent injuries limit function and non-surgical care has failed, surgery may offer the best long-term result. Surgical decision-making includes evaluation of overall health, recovery time, and realistic expectations.
| Aspect | Non-Surgical Care | Surgical Care |
|---|---|---|
| Risk | Lower short-term risk | Higher immediate risk, but targeted correction |
| Recovery time | Days to weeks | Weeks to months depending on procedure |
| Cost | Generally lower upfront | Higher due to OR, anesthesia, and postop care |
| Success for mild conditions | Often high | Usually unnecessary for mild cases |
| Success for structural deformities | Variable | Often better for definitive correction |
Prevention helps you avoid many foot problems, especially if you’re active, diabetic, or on your feet for work. Small daily habits and proper footwear go a long way toward keeping you pain-free.
Daily washing, drying between toes, and moisturizing non-weight-bearing areas help prevent infection and cracking. Inspect your feet regularly for cuts, redness, or changes—this is especially crucial if you have diabetes or reduced sensation.
Shoes should fit well, provide adequate arch support, and allow toe movement without pressure points. If you perform specific activities, select shoes designed for that activity to protect your feet from abnormal stress.
Simple exercises to stretch the calf, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia reduce strain and improve flexibility. Strengthening intrinsic foot muscles also improves arch support and balance.
If you have diabetes, vascular disease, or neuropathy, regular podiatry check-ups are essential even when you don’t have pain. For others, annual or biannual exams can identify problems early and preserve function.
Your comfort and understanding matter during every visit, and LMD Podiatry focuses on a friendly environment that prioritizes your needs. The staff aims to be accessible, responsive, and clear about next steps.
You’ll get clear explanations about your condition, treatment choices, and home care instructions so you know what to expect. Learning practical steps for prevention and recovery empowers you to manage your foot health between visits.
Same-day appointments and flexible scheduling make it easier for you to get care when you need it. The office prioritizes timely access so acute problems don’t have to worsen while you wait.
If your condition intersects with diabetes care, orthopedics, or physical therapy, the practice coordinates with other specialists to provide a seamless approach. This teamwork helps achieve the best outcomes for your overall health.
Understanding how podiatry services are billed helps you plan and avoids surprises. LMD Podiatry works with many insurance plans and can discuss payment options for uninsured services.
Most procedures and evaluations are covered by typical medical insurance plans, but coverage varies by policy and service. The office staff can verify your benefits and explain expected out-of-pocket costs before major procedures.
For elective procedures, the practice discusses fee structures and possible payment plans to accommodate your needs. If a treatment isn’t covered, you’ll receive a transparent cost estimate so you can make an informed decision.
When you know practical steps to manage common problems, you can reduce pain and speed recovery even before your appointment. These tips are meant to provide immediate relief and help you understand what to expect.
To reduce pain, try nightly calf stretches, plantar fascia-specific stretches, and avoid barefoot walking on hard surfaces. Wearing supportive shoes during the day and using a night splint can significantly speed recovery.
Wear wide, supportive shoes and use bunion pads or toe spacers to decrease pressure and irritation. Custom orthotics can correct mechanical factors that worsen bunions, and if pain persists, discuss surgical correction options.
Soak your foot in warm water, keep the area clean, and avoid trying to dig out the nail yourself if it’s painful or infected. If swelling, pus, or severe pain develops, seek professional treatment to prevent worsening infection.
Inspect your feet daily, control blood sugar, avoid smoking, trim nails carefully, and wear diabetic-friendly socks and shoes. Regular podiatry visits for callus control and foot checks are critical to prevent ulcers and infections.
Some foot and ankle problems need urgent attention to avoid permanent damage. Knowing which signs require immediate care helps you act quickly.
If you have sudden severe pain after trauma, visible deformity, numbness or loss of circulation, spreading redness, fever, or increasing drainage from a wound, seek prompt care. For diabetic patients, any sign of infection or non-healing wound should be evaluated right away.
The practice offers timely access and same-day appointments when possible, allowing you to get evaluated quickly. Quick intervention helps prevent complications and can mean the difference between simple treatment and more extensive care.
You probably have questions about how treatment works, recovery times, and what to expect financially. These answers address common concerns so you feel prepared for your visit.
A standard evaluation often takes 20–40 minutes depending on complexity and testing needed. If imaging or procedures are ordered, plan for additional time.
Most assessments are not painful, and many procedures use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Your provider will discuss pain control options and expected discomfort during recovery.
Many foot and ankle surgeries are outpatient, allowing you to go home the same day with specific postoperative instructions. The exact setting depends on the procedure and your overall health.
Custom orthotics are effective for many mechanical foot problems and can reduce pain by redistributing forces and supporting alignment. The benefit depends on accurate assessment and proper fabrication.
Recovery plans vary widely based on the condition and treatment chosen, but all include steps to protect healing and gradually restore function. Knowing a typical timeline reduces anxiety and helps you plan time off or assistance at home.
Immediately after treatment, you may need to limit weight-bearing, keep dressings dry, and follow pain management guidance. Within days to weeks, you’ll progress to increased activity and begin rehab exercises as recommended.
Full recovery for surgical cases can take weeks to months, while conservative treatments may resolve issues in a few weeks to months depending on adherence. Your provider will give a personalized timeline and signs that indicate safe progression.
Preparing for your visit helps the provider make a quick and accurate assessment. Bring relevant information and be ready to describe your symptoms clearly.
Bring a list of medications, recent relevant medical records, footwear you typically wear, and any prior imaging or reports if available. Also bring questions you want answered so the visit is efficient and thorough.
Ask about the likely diagnosis, treatment options, timelines for recovery, expected costs, and any lifestyle adjustments needed. Clarify follow-up plans and signs that should prompt earlier contact.
If you’re ready to schedule a consultation, LMD Podiatry provides convenient access to care and personalized treatment planning. Calling directly is often the fastest way to arrange an appointment or ask preliminary questions.
For consultation and appointments, call LMD Podiatry at 954-680-7133 to speak with staff about same-day availability and scheduling. The team can verify insurance, explain fees, and help you choose a time that works with your routine.
When you call, you’ll get guidance on appointment options, instructions for preparing for your visit, and any paperwork to complete beforehand. Staff will confirm your appointment and let you know what to bring for a smooth first visit.
Taking proactive steps with a trusted podiatrist helps you stay active and pain-free, whether you’re treating a chronic issue or addressing a new injury. LMD Podiatry’s combination of advanced diagnostics, compassionate care, and surgical expertise makes it a strong option for local residents.
You play a central role by following home-care instructions, attending follow-up visits, and communicating changes in symptoms. Consistent self-care and working closely with your podiatrist lead to the best outcomes.
If pain worsens, new symptoms appear, or you notice signs of infection or circulation problems, call the office promptly. For questions, scheduling, or urgent concerns related to foot health, reach LMD Podiatry at 954-680-7133.
If you’d like to take the next step, calling 954-680-7133 will connect you with LMD Podiatry to arrange a consultation and get personalized care that prioritizes your foot and ankle health.
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.
