Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the recovery for bunion surgery?

Hallux abducto valgus (a.k.a. bunion deformity) has different levels of severity. Close to 100 different procedures have been documented as surgical treatment options for bunions. Each patient’s bunion is individually evaluated to determine the appropriate procedure to perform. The procedure performed will dictate how long of a recovery to expect. This recovery can vary from 2-3 weeks in a protective shoe to 6-8 weeks. During your pre-operative consultation we will discuss and outline in detail the expected post-operative recovery.

Is my office visit covered by insurance?

Woodlake Podiatry, LLC is in network with most of the managed care insurance companies. Please contact your insurance company to be sure we are In-Network with your plan and that your plan coverage offers podiatry services.

What are orthotics?

Custom orthotics is often a treatment modality used to help relieve foot pain associated with many disorders of the foot and ankle.

How long will I be off work after my foot surgery?

Surgical procedures of the foot and ankle vary considerably in recovery time from 1-2 weeks to 2-3 months. Depending on the severity of your condition and the complexity of your surgery, the recovery time is very individualized. Prior to your surgery, you will have a consultation with the surgeon outlining the surgery and expected recovery time in detail with you.

Does Medicare cover routine foot care (ex. nail and/or callus care)

Short answer is No and yes. According to your Medicare handbook, routine foot care in not a covered benefit by Medicare Guidelines. They do however offer certain allowances if you meet specific guidelines. If you do qualify, our office policy is every 3 months for foot care services.

Which hospitals are you affiliated with?

The hospitals in which Woodlake Podiatry, LLC currently are affiliated with are Des Peres Hospital and Chesterfield Surgery Center.

Do you take care of sports injuries?

Sports related injuries are commonly treated at our clinic. The most common sports related injuries we treat are ankle sprains. Ankle sprains are injuries that occur when ligaments are stretched or torn, most commonly on the outside part of the ankle. Other commonly treated sports related injuries are Achilles tendon pain, ankle pain, and foot/ankle fractures. Our physicians are affiliated with the emergency departments of Missouri Baptist Medical Center, Des Peres Hospital.

What types of surgeries do you perform?

The physician in our practice is certified to perform a wide variety of surgical procedures related to the foot and ankle. We specialize in elective surgery of the foot and ankle as well as repair of sports related injuries and trauma. We also have a passion for repair of complex pediatric/adult deformities of the foot and ankle.

How often should a diabetic patient follow up with your clinic?

Diabetic related foot problems are preventable with routine check-ups and proper education about your condition. Diabetic patients are urged to see their podiatrist four times a year, unless the severity of your condition warrants more frequent visits.

What shoes do you recommend for my child?

Parents should understand that their child’s foot is very different from an adult’s foot. Children’s feet are still developing and the cartilage present in a child’s foot is relatively soft and bone is still forming. During the first year of life, your child’s feet will be very soft and pliable. Taking this into consideration, it is easy to understand how any abnormal, repetitive pressure (a poorly fit shoe) can easy cause the child’s foot to deform over time. It is well documented that children’s feet develop best when they are barefoot. It isn’t always practical to walk barefoot, however, so parents must be aware of the proper shoe gear to purchase for their child. Basic guidelines to choosing the proper shoe for your child includes shoes that are lightweight, flat, smooth (avoid rubber soles), flexible/soft, and without a heel.

Are flat feet normal?

Flat foot is often a complex disorder with a wide variety of symptoms associated with it. Most infants are born with a flatfoot. As the foot develops in the growing child, the foot slowly develops an arch. If your child still has a flatfoot by the age of 7-8, this will probably not correct as your child continues to grow. A flatfoot that develops later in life is usually related to a tendon injury which causes the arch to fall. A flatfoot can be associated with many symptoms including pain in the arch/heel, shin splint type pain, and Achilles tendon pain. Also a flatfoot is the most common foot structure that can lead to bunion and hammertoe type conditions.

My ankles hurt, do you manage ankle problems?

Our physicians have extensive training in managing ankle pain. Ankle pain can be caused by a sprain, injury, or other abnormality. We advocate an initial conservative approach to managing ankle pain/injuries; however we are certified to perform ankle surgery when deemed necessary.

Do you take care of children?

Yes, we have extensive experience in managing pediatric foot and ankle conditions. Some of the most common pediatric problems that we treat are flatfoot, arch pain, heel pain, and general fatigue. Foot pain is not normal and if you child experiences these symptoms, an office visit is indicated.

How long has your practice been established?

Our practice has been established in the Chesterfield area since 1978, formerly owned by Dr. Howard Jaffe. Woodlake Podiatry, LLC established in July 1, 2016, now owned by Dr. Sheryl Hanawalt.

Do you accept new patients?

Yes, we are accepting new patients of all ages. Request an appointment today or download the patient forms for your upcoming visit.