Elective Procedures
Q: What can I take before, during, and after shockwave therapy?
A: Do not take NSAIDs (ibuprofen, meloxicam, Aleve) for 1 week prior and throughout your shockwave treatment plan. Tylenol and Tramadol are safe to use.
Q: Does insurance cover laser, fungal laser, or shockwave therapy?
A: No. Insurance does not cover any elective treatments.
Q: How many sessions are required for fungal laser treatment?
A: 3 treatments, once a month.
Q: How many sessions are required for laser therapy, and how often can I get it?
A: Typically 6 sessions. They can be repeated as often as needed.
Q: How often is shockwave therapy performed at the start of treatment?
A: 3 visits, with 2 sessions per visit (a total of 6 sessions).
Q: What does PVR mean?
A: Pulse Volume Recording, a test for blood circulation in the legs and feet.
Orthotics / AFOs / Braces / DMEs
Q: Does my foot structure (wide, flat, high-arched) matter when scanning for custom orthotics?
A: No. The orthotic scanner captures your natural foot structure with precision.
Q: How long does it take for AFOs or braces to arrive after casting?
A: Typically 3–4 weeks.
Q: How long does it take for custom orthotics to arrive after scanning?
A: Typically 3–4 weeks.
Q: Can I return custom orthotics?
A: They cannot be returned, but they can be adjusted or sent for repair.
Q: Does insurance cover arch supports?
A: No. Arch supports are over-the-counter items.
Q: What is a DME?
A: Durable Medical Equipment (e.g., CAM walker, ankle brace, night splint, crutches, post-op shoe).
Q: Does Medicare cover custom orthotics?
A: No. Medicare does not cover custom orthotics.
Post-Operative Care
Q: My foot is still swollen one month after surgery—is this normal?
A: Yes. Swelling can last for months. It’s only concerning if paired with redness, tenderness, drainage, or odor.
Q: Can I get in the pool or ocean after surgery?
A: No. You must wait until sutures are removed and the incision is fully closed and dry.
Q: Is drainage normal after an ingrown procedure?
A: Yes. Drainage may continue for several weeks, and the toe may look worse before it looks better. As long as redness doesn’t spread up the toe, it is normal.
Q: Is numbness after surgery normal?
A: Yes, numbness is normal.
Q: Can I drive after an ingrown procedure?
A: Yes. Only the toe is numb, usually for about 4 hours.
Q: When can I shower after surgery?
A: Usually after sutures are removed, about 2 weeks post-op.
Lab Work
Q: Do I need to fast before labs?
A: No. The only lab that requires fasting is the A1C, which we rarely order.
Q: Can lab results be given over the phone for fungal medication clearance?
A: Yes. If CMP results show normal AST and ALT levels, the patient may begin the prescribed medication.
Injections
Q: Can I drive after a steroid injection?
A: Yes. Steroid injections only affect the treated area.
Q: Is it normal to have pain after an injection?
A: Yes. Some patients experience increased pain for up to 3 days before it improves.
Q: What did the doctor inject me with?
A: A steroid. The amount is less than what your body naturally produces in a day—there’s no need to worry.
