In this episode Dr. John sits down with Dr. Jeff Hammond, a podiatrist specializing in foot and ankle care, who shares insights into common foot conditions and treatments. Dr. Hammond begins by recounting his path to becoming a podiatrist, sparked by a sports injury that piqued his interest in medicine. The discussion covers a variety of foot issues such as fungal infections like tinea pedis and onychomycosis, explaining their causes, treatments, and why some cases can be stubborn. Dr. Hammond underscores the importance of a multifaceted treatment approach and highlights emerging technologies like microwave therapy.

The conversation then shifts to structural issues of the foot, including bunions and plantar fasciitis. Dr. Hammond explains the anatomy behind bunions, differentiating them from calluses, and describes treatment options ranging from conservative care to minimally invasive surgery. He emphasizes the importance of supportive footwear and calf stretching to alleviate plantar fasciitis and shares personal anecdotes about managing heel pain. Dr. Hammond also discusses newer techniques for treating chronic cases, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and laser therapy.

Towards the end, Dr. Hammond talks about the benefits of his direct specialty care model, which forgoes insurance to offer personalized, patient-focused service. He details how this approach allows for longer consultations and the ability to prioritize the most effective treatments without being constrained by insurance protocols. The episode concludes with Dr. John commending Dr. Hammond for his innovative practice model and commitment to patient care.