Don’t Be Afraid to Get Podiatric Treatment

As COVID continues and is increasing in some areas, we at Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle want to reassure our Nature Coast patients that it is safe and essential to get the medical treatment you need for podiatric and other health issues. Patients with diabetes, for example, should still contact us immediately if they notice changes in their feet that may indicate a wound or an ulcer is forming. Similarly, putting off getting foot or ankle pain evaluated can lead to more severe and longer-lasting medical problems.

If you have questions about whether or not your conditions warrant an in-person visit to see our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, in our Hudson office, contact us by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799, and we will direct you. We are following all the CDC guidelines for protecting our patients and staff. If you have an appointment and develop a cough, runny nose, or difficult breathing, please call us to re-schedule. Below are some of the COVID precautions we are currently taking:

• As is our standard protocol, we will continue to sanitize items and surfaces regularly throughout the day.

• If possible, we ask patients to come alone to their appointment or with one additional caregiver only.

• We take the temperatures of all patients and accompanying caregivers upon arrival.

• Please bring your pen if possible.

• Hand sanitizer will be available upon arrival and departure from your appointment.

Keeping Healthy at Home

You can help prevent many common podiatric disorders by following a few basic home protocols:

• Wash feet daily with soap and water and dry completely before putting on socks.

• Inspect your feet regularly for any lumps, bruises, redness, swelling, or other unusual symptoms, and contact us if you see anything concerning.

• Use your custom orthotic if you have one and limit the amount of time you spend barefoot, even if you are at home.

We wish all our patients the very best this Holiday Season!