Frequently Asked Questions

Our board-certified podiatrists treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions for the whole family, including:

• Ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and calluses
• Chronic heel pain and plantar fasciitis
• Fractures, sprains, and tendon injuries
• Bunions, hammertoes, and other structural changes
• Diabetic foot care and wound management

Given the distances many of our patients travel to reach care, we make it a priority to fully evaluate every concern in as few visits as possible.

Yes. We regularly treat student athletes and active adults for sports-related foot and ankle injuries. Our specialists evaluate gait and biomechanics to determine the underlying cause of the pain rather than treating symptoms alone, which may involve overuse, a structural imbalance, or an acute injury from training or competition. Depending on the findings, treatment may include:

• Custom orthotics to correct an alignment issue
• Physical therapy focused on rebuilding strength safely
• Guidance on modifying training or activity levels
• Bracing to support the area during recovery

Addressing sports injuries early typically results in a more straightforward recovery and reduces the risk of the injury recurring.

Your first visit typically follows this process:

• A thorough discussion of your symptoms, including when they began and how they affect your daily activities
• A physical examination to assess swelling, range of motion, and tenderness
• On-site digital X-rays, if your provider determines imaging is needed
• A clear treatment plan, explained in detail before you leave

Because our clinics serve a wide regional area, we recommend bringing any prior imaging or records from other providers if available, as this can help streamline your visit.

Yes. Most conditions we treat are resolved without surgery. Our board-certified team manages your entire treatment plan in-house, and before considering a surgical approach, we typically recommend:

• Custom-molded orthotics for structural support
• Stretching routines and structured physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory protocols or in-office injections
• Footwear guidance based on your foot structure

Should surgery ultimately be recommended, your provider will walk you through every surgical and non-surgical option available before you decide.

Yes, we welcome patients seeking a second opinion before committing to any treatment plan. Our doctors will carefully review your previous records, conduct a thorough exam, and provide honest guidance on all available surgical and non-surgical options.

We accept most major insurance plans, including but not limited to Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Wyoming, Cigna, Humana, Medicare, Tricare West Region, and United Healthcare. Since coverage details vary by plan, we recommend calling our office ahead of your visit so our team can confirm your specific benefits.

Same-week and same-day appointments are typically available across our Montana locations. In most cases, a referral from another doctor is not required to schedule a visit. For urgent concerns, call us for immediate availability options so you are not left waiting on pain that needs prompt attention.

Yes. Every Foot Care Center location is equipped with on-site digital X-ray imaging, allowing your exam and imaging to take place during the same visit rather than requiring a separate trip.

Results are made available through your secure Patient Portal as soon as they are ready. We then schedule a follow-up appointment so your provider can review the findings with you and outline next steps in your treatment plan.

Recommended visit frequency depends on your health status and activity level:

• Generally healthy adults: an annual check-up, especially if you use orthotics
• Patients with diabetes or circulation concerns: at least one visit per year, sometimes more frequent monitoring for high-risk individuals
• Active individuals and athletes: periodic evaluations to catch overuse patterns before they become injuries
• Acute pain or a new injury: we recommend scheduling a visit promptly rather than waiting

Because same-week and same-day appointments are typically available, there is rarely a reason to delay care, even across our wider service area.