Dr. Howard Finkelstein, DPM is a Podiatry with a Focus on Foot & Ankle Surgery, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Podiatric care for older adults (65 years and older) at his clinic in Altamonte Springs, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Finkelstein understands the unique needs of seniors, specializing in the compassionate management of foot & ankle surgery to help patients maintain function and improve their quality of life. He is committed to collaborating with primary care physicians and other specialists to prevent falls and maintain overall health, focusing on common senior foot and ankle problems, including diabetic foot care, arthritis, and mobility issues.
General podiatrists provide expert care for seniors' common foot and ankle problems, including diabetic foot care, arthritis, and mobility issues, working collaboratively with your primary care physician and other specialists to prevent falls and maintain your overall health. This area of practice focuses on the compassionate management of foot & ankle surgery to help patients maintain function and improve their quality of life. Dr. Finkelstein, a graduate of Miami Dade Community College and Florida International University, School of Physical Therapy, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy, earned his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine from the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine. He is a Fellow in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and is Board Certified, with privileges at Florida Hospital Healthcare System. Dr. Finkelstein is currently welcoming new patients and they should call (407) 339-7759 to schedule an appointment. He offers consultations in Spanish.
Dr. Finkelstein's approach to care is rooted in collaborative, evidence-based medicine, ensuring a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered. He is a graduate of Illinois College Of Podiatric Medicine and completed his residency training in Podiatry Services at Florida Hospital East Orlando, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of Older adults (65 years and older). He actively mentors podiatry residents in the Florida Hospital Podiatry Residency Program, staying current on the latest podiatric methods and procedures. Dr. Finkelstein's commitment to providing the highest level of care is evident in his memberships with the American Podaitric Medical Association, the Florida Podiatric Medical Association, and the Central Florida Podiatric Association. If you need help with your podiatric care, call his office in Altamonte Springs for an appointment.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Howard Finkelstein is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Finkelstein acts as a compassionate partner in your senior health journey, offering comprehensive podiatric care tailored to your specific needs. He expertly addresses common foot and ankle problems, including diabetic foot care, arthritis, and mobility issues, collaborating with your primary care physician and other specialists to prevent falls and maintain your overall health. His expertise extends to foot and ankle surgery, with a focus on compassionate management to help you maintain function and improve your quality of life.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Howard Finkelstein can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
AvMed
Cigna
Florida Hospital Healthcare System
Golden Rule
Group Health Incorporated (GHI)
Mail Handlers Benefit Plan (MHBP)
PHCS
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Ambetter
- Anthem
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- Health Net
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Medicare
- National (BlueCard) PPO
- Superior Health Plan
- Tricare
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
- Workers Compensation
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Howard Finkelstein 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:
- Ankle Impingement: If you experience pain and limited range of motion in your ankle, it could be ankle impingement, a condition that impacts daily life, but treatment options exist to relieve discomfort and improve function.
- Onychomycosis: Dealing with toenail fungus (onychomycosis) can affect your mobility and confidence, but with the right medical care, you can get rid of the infection and enjoy more comfortable, pain-free walking.
- Osteoarthritis of Ankle: With ankle osteoarthritis, the protective cartilage in your ankle breaks down, leading to pain and reduced mobility, but treatments can help you stay active.
- Foot Deformities: Foot deformities can cause significant pain and make it hard to walk comfortably, but don't despair! Podiatrists can assess your specific needs and provide tailored solutions such as exercises, supportive footwear, or other interventions to improve your quality of life.
- Foot Infections: Foot infections, often stemming from minor injuries or poor circulation, can be managed effectively with appropriate medication and care, allowing you to maintain an active lifestyle and reduce pain.
- Foot and Ankle Injuries: Even minor foot or ankle injuries can significantly impact seniors' daily life, but with the right care, including physical therapy and supportive footwear, you can significantly reduce pain and restore your ability to walk comfortably.
- Ankle Fracture: Ankle fractures can be very painful, but effective treatment options, such as surgery and rehabilitation, are available to help you heal and get back to your daily activities.
- Metatarsalgia: Metatarsalgia is pain in the ball of your foot, often making it uncomfortable to walk or stand for long periods, but treatment like supportive shoes and cushioning can ease the discomfort and help you stay mobile.
- Stress Fracture of Foot: Sometimes, repeated activities or even a minor injury can cause a tiny break in a bone in your foot, known as a stress fracture; proper treatment with rest and possibly a brace allows you to maintain your independence.
- Bunion: If you have a bunion, it's important to see a podiatrist to explore options for pain relief and to prevent complications such as restricted movement and discomfort.
- Ankle Sprain and Achilles Tendon Sprain or Rupture: Ankle and Achilles tendon injuries can be debilitating for seniors, causing pain and restricting movement, however, early diagnosis and treatment, which might include medication and targeted exercises, can help reduce pain and improve your overall mobility and quality of life.
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Imagine a pinched nerve in your ankle causing discomfort; that's tarsal tunnel syndrome. Treatment often involves managing the pain and inflammation, enabling you to stay active and independent.
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. Howard Finkelstein offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Foot Surgery: Sometimes, surgery is necessary to address serious foot problems like diabetic ulcers or infections, preventing more significant health issues.
- Foot Fracture Treatment Open: This surgical procedure addresses severe foot fractures, aiding in the restoration of function and preventing long-term complications in older adults.
- Nail Avulsion and Excision: Removing a problematic toenail through avulsion or excision helps prevent further damage and promotes healing, enhancing a senior's overall comfort and quality of life.
- Bunionette Surgery: To manage chronic pain and prevent falls associated with bunionettes, this surgery is a treatment option to consider as part of your senior care plan.
- Ingrown Toenail Surgery: As part of a comprehensive foot health strategy, ingrown toenail surgery can remove the source of infection and inflammation, making it easier to maintain good foot hygiene.
- Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair: Achilles tendon rupture repair surgery helps restore mobility and reduce pain in seniors experiencing a torn Achilles tendon.
- 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.
- Hammer Toe Repair: As part of a comprehensive foot care plan, hammer toe repair can restore balance and reduce the risk of falls in older adults.
- Fracture and-or Dislocation Treatment: Fracture and/or dislocation treatment helps repair broken bones and joints in the foot and ankle, restoring mobility and reducing pain for seniors.
- Foot Ligament Tendon Repair: Foot ligament and tendon repair helps restore stability and function in aging joints, improving mobility and reducing fall risks.
- 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.
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. Howard Finkelstein 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 improved mobility and reduced ankle pain, a senior was able to resume her favorite hobby of walking her dog without discomfort, enjoying the fresh air and companionship.
- After struggling with toenail fungus, a senior felt much more comfortable walking and confident going out for walks with friends, a cherished activity. The podiatrist's care significantly improved her overall well-being.
- With a tailored treatment plan, a senior was able to resume her favorite pastime of walking her dog around the neighborhood without the debilitating ankle pain. The family rejoiced at the renewed mobility and independence.
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
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- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
Here are answers to some common questions about Podiatric care with Dr. Howard Finkelstein:
- What is a Podiatrist, and why is foot care so important for seniors?
- Dr. Finkelstein is a podiatrist, a specialist in foot, ankle, and lower leg care. Healthy feet are vital for seniors, enabling mobility, balance, and independence. Dr. Finkelstein is experienced in managing age-related foot problems and preventing complications.
- I have diabetes. How often should I see a Podiatrist like Dr. Howard Finkelstein?
- Regular foot exams are crucial for seniors with diabetes. Dr. Finkelstein recommends a comprehensive exam at least annually to detect nerve damage and poor circulation, preventing potential ulcers and amputations.
- Does Medicare cover podiatry visits?
- Medicare Part B generally covers podiatric services for diagnosing and treating foot conditions, such as diabetic foot care, but routine care like nail trimming is often not covered unless it's related to a larger medical issue.
- How is arthritis in the foot and ankle managed?
- Dr. Finkelstein's practice focuses on managing foot and ankle arthritis pain while preserving 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. Howard Finkelstein help prevent falls?
- Dr. Finkelstein understands the crucial link between foot health and balance. He can assess your balance, treat painful foot conditions that may cause unsteadiness, and recommend appropriate footwear and orthotics to help reduce your risk of falls.
- What are custom orthotics and how can they help?
- Custom orthotics are prescription medical devices worn inside your shoes. They are made from a precise mold of your feet to correct biomechanical issues, provide support, and relieve pain from conditions like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or arthritis.
- Can you help with heel pain or plantar fasciitis?
- Yes, heel pain, including plantar fasciitis, is one of the most common issues we treat. We offer a variety of management strategies, such as stretching exercises, supportive footwear, orthotics, and sometimes injections to relieve inflammation and help you get back on your feet comfortably.
- What is the best way to treat thick, yellow, or fungal toenails?
- Thick, yellow, or fungal toenails are a common condition in older adults. Dr. Finkelstein can discuss treatment options, including topical or oral antifungal medications, or professional nail debridement to improve comfort and appearance. Addressing this is important for overall foot health.
661 E Altamonte Dr Ste 210
Altamonte Springs FL 32701
Phone: (407) 339-7759
Dr. Howard Finkelstein, 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): 1174600118
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. Howard Finkelstein 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.