Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi, DPM is a Podiatry specializing in the comprehensive care of older adults (65 years and older) at Emerald Coast Podiatry - Crestview in Crestview, FL. He is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Ricciardi understands the unique needs of seniors, providing expert care for common foot and ankle problems like diabetic foot care, arthritis, and mobility issues. He works collaboratively with your primary care physician and other specialists to prevent falls and maintain your overall health and well-being.
Dr. Ricciardi's commitment to senior care is deeply rooted in his extensive training and experience. He earned his medical degree from Barry University in 1998, followed by a residency in Podiatry at Fountain Valley Regional Hospital and Medical Center in 2001. He is on the Medical Staff at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center and is board certified in Podiatric Surgery. His extensive experience includes an internship at Va Boston Healthcare System, solidifying his foundation in clinical practice. He is passionate about providing a supportive environment for patients and their families, ensuring they feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Ricciardi offers consultations in Spanish, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (850) 296-1125 to schedule an appointment.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing compassionate and comprehensive podiatric care. He expertly addresses common foot and ankle concerns, including diabetic foot care and arthritis, collaborating closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to ensure a holistic approach to treatment. His focus extends beyond addressing immediate issues, emphasizing preventative measures to maintain mobility and overall well-being, ultimately supporting a higher quality of life for seniors.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Assurant Health
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
Curative
Golden Rule
Humana
Mail Handlers Benefit Plan (MHBP)
WellCare
Also Accepts These Carriers
- ADVANTAGE Health Solutions
- Advantage Health Solutions
- Anthem
- AvMed
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of California
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- Dental Blue 100/200/300
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- GEHA
- Government Employees Health Association (GEHA)
- Health Net
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- Inc.
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Midwest Health Plan
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO
- National (BlueCard) PPO
- Navigate
- Navigate HMO
- Open Access
- Tricare
- UnitedHealthCare
- Workers Compensation
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Heel Pain: Heel pain can be frustrating, but with the right care, it doesn't have to sideline you. Seeking professional help ensures you receive the best advice and treatment for your specific situation, allowing you to continue enjoying your favorite activities.
- Osteoarthritis of Foot: Osteoarthritis in the foot is a type of arthritis causing joint pain and stiffness, often making it difficult to walk comfortably, but treatments like pain relief and exercise can significantly improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
- Posterior Tibial Tendonitis: Posterior tibial tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon supporting your arch, causing pain and potentially affecting your ability to walk comfortably.
- Ankle Impingement: Ankle impingement is a painful condition where the bones or tissues in your ankle rub together, often making it hard to walk comfortably and limiting your daily activities.
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a nerve problem in the ankle that can lead to foot pain and numbness, but thankfully, there are various treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Osteoarthritis of Ankle: Osteoarthritis of the ankle is a common condition where the cartilage cushioning your ankle joint wears down, causing pain and stiffness.
- Achilles Tendinitis: The Achilles tendon, crucial for walking, can become inflamed (Achilles tendinitis), leading to heel pain and difficulty moving. Fortunately, treatments like physical therapy can help you manage this and maintain your independence.
- Heel Spur: Heel spurs, bony projections on the heel, are a common cause of heel pain in older adults, but with proper care, including supportive shoes, custom orthotics, and physical therapy, you can significantly reduce pain and improve your quality of life.
- Tendonitis: Tendonitis affects the tendons, making it tough to move your foot or ankle comfortably. Luckily, this condition is often treatable with simple strategies like stretching and rest, allowing you to stay active and enjoy life more fully.
- Onychomycosis: Onychomycosis, or toenail fungus, can be uncomfortable and unsightly, but thankfully, there are effective treatments available to clear the infection and improve your foot health.
- Ingrown Toenail: An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling, often relieved with simple home care or a podiatrist's visit.
- Stress Fracture of Foot: A stress fracture is a hairline crack in one of the bones in your foot; it can often be successfully treated with rest, supportive shoes, and possibly physical therapy so that you can continue to enjoy your daily life.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Bunion Surgery: Bunion surgery is a procedure that can help alleviate pain and improve mobility for seniors with bunions, a common foot problem that can impact daily life.
- Ankle Arthroscopy: As part of a comprehensive care plan for your arthritis, ankle arthroscopy can help diagnose and repair damaged cartilage or other tissues within your ankle joint.
- Nail Avulsion and Excision: As part of a comprehensive foot care plan for seniors, nail avulsion and excision addresses nail problems that could lead to serious complications, like infection or ulceration.
- Foot Fracture Treatment Closed: Closed treatment for foot fractures helps seniors heal broken bones without surgery, improving mobility and reducing pain.
- Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: Incision and drainage is a key step in treating foot infections, such as abscesses, which can be especially serious for older adults who may have other health issues.
- Forefoot Reconstruction: Forefoot reconstruction surgery helps restore the proper function and structure of your feet, improving comfort and mobility.
- Foot and Ankle Fracture and Dislocation Treatment: A comprehensive care plan includes addressing foot and ankle fractures and dislocations to support healing and prevent further injury, ultimately improving overall senior well-being.
- Foot Ligament Tendon Repair: Foot ligament and tendon repair helps restore stability and function in aging joints, improving mobility and reducing fall risks.
- Foot Surgery: For seniors with severe arthritis or other conditions affecting their feet, surgery may be an option to alleviate pain and improve joint function.
- Achilles Tendon Reconstruction: This surgery addresses significant Achilles tendon problems that limit a senior's ability to move freely, enabling a return to a more active lifestyle.
- Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair: This surgery is a treatment option for seniors who experience a complete or partial rupture of their Achilles tendon, significantly improving lower limb function.
- Excision of Tarsal or Metatarsal: To diagnose and treat underlying causes of foot pain in older adults, sometimes a tarsal or metatarsal bone may need to be surgically removed; this procedure aims to restore comfort and proper walking ability.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Podiatry Services in Florida.
Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- With specialized care for heel pain, a senior was able to resume her daily walks in the park, a beloved activity that brought her joy and improved her mobility.
- With a tailored treatment plan, a senior was able to resume her favorite hobby of walking in the park without the debilitating foot pain, significantly improving her overall well-being.
- With the support of a podiatrist, a senior citizen found relief from posterior tibial tendonitis pain, allowing them to walk confidently and enjoy their daily neighborhood walks again.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
View on Map
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
Here are answers to some common questions about Podiatric care with Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi:
- What is a Podiatrist, and why is foot care so important for seniors?
- Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi is a podiatrist, a specialist in foot, ankle, and lower leg care. Healthy feet are essential for seniors to maintain mobility, balance, and independence. Dr. Ricciardi is an expert in managing age-related foot problems and preventing serious complications.
- I have diabetes. How often should I see a Podiatrist like Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi?
- Regular foot exams are crucial for seniors with diabetes. Dr. Ricciardi recommends a comprehensive foot exam at least annually to detect potential problems like neuropathy and poor circulation, which can lead to serious complications like ulcers and amputations. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and prevents further issues.
- Does Medicare cover podiatry visits?
- Medicare Part B generally covers podiatric services needed to diagnose and treat foot conditions like diabetic foot problems or bunions. However, routine care like simple nail trimming may not be covered unless it's part of managing a more serious underlying health issue. Please contact our office to discuss your specific coverage.
- What is hammertoe, and does it require surgery?
- Hammertoe is a bending or contracture of the smaller toes. In the early stages, it's often managed with wider shoes and orthotics. Surgery is usually only considered when the toe becomes rigid, painful, and causes difficulty wearing shoes.
- Do you treat sports injuries of the foot and ankle?
- Yes, Dr. Ricciardi is experienced in treating sports injuries in older adults. He specializes in diagnosing and managing common foot and ankle injuries, like ankle sprains, Achilles tendonitis, and stress fractures, and creating a personalized plan to help patients return to their activities safely.
- What is the best way to treat thick, yellow, or fungal toenails?
- Thick, yellow, or fungal toenails are a common condition in older adults. Treatment options range from topical or oral antifungal medications to professional nail debridement to improve comfort and appearance. Our podiatrist, Dr. Ricciardi, can assess your specific needs and recommend the best course of action for your health.
- How is arthritis in the foot and ankle managed?
- Dr. Ricciardi's practice focuses on managing foot and ankle arthritis pain while maintaining function. Treatments may include anti-inflammatory medications, supportive footwear, custom bracing or orthotics, and injections to help seniors remain active and comfortable.
- How can Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi help prevent falls?
- Dr. Ricciardi understands the crucial link between healthy feet and balance. He can assess your balance, treat any foot pain that might be affecting your stability, and recommend appropriate footwear and orthotics to help prevent falls.
Emerald Coast Podiatry - Crestview
120 E Redstone Ave Ste A
Crestview FL 32539
Phone: (850) 296-1125
Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi, DPM is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1295711968
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Podiatry Services like Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.