Dr. Steven Baker, DPM is a Podiatry with a Focus on Foot & Ankle Surgery, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Podiatric care for older adults. He practices at Modern Foot & Ankle in Tampa, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Baker's extensive experience in podiatric healthcare, encompassing orthotic management, routine foot care, and sports injuries of the lower extremity, combined with his focus on the needs of seniors, makes him a trusted partner in their health journey. He is committed to helping older adults (65 years and older) maintain function and improve their quality of life through the compassionate management of foot & ankle conditions, including diabetic foot care, arthritis, and mobility issues. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to prevent falls and promote overall well-being.
General podiatrists provide expert care for seniors' common foot and ankle problems, 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. Baker, a board-certified podiatrist with over 40 years of dedicated experience in Podiatric care, brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from New York College Of Podaitric Medicine in 1980, followed by residency training in Podiatry Services at St. Mary's Hospital in 1981, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of Older adults (65 years and older). He is Board Certified in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. Dr. Baker is currently welcoming new patients and you can schedule an appointment by calling (813) 499-0774. He provides consultations primarily in English.
Dr. Baker, who has been serving the Tampa area since 1981, is a partner of All Podiatry Group and a well-known figure in the local medical community. He is experienced in a wide range of podiatric care, and now through Modern Foot & Ankle, he continues to expand his knowledge of conservative therapies. He is committed to providing high-quality care to his patients, prioritizing their comfort and well-being. His practice reflects a progressive approach to podiatric healthcare, utilizing the latest medical innovations. When not practicing, he enjoys spending time with his family and pursuing his hobbies, including photography, exercise, and golf.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Steven Baker is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Baker acts as a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive podiatric care for common foot and ankle issues, including diabetic foot care and arthritis. He expertly manages foot and ankle surgery to maintain function and improve quality of life, collaborating with other specialists to create a personalized plan that addresses the unique needs of each patient, preventing falls, and promoting overall well-being.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Steven Baker can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Ambetter
- AvMed
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN
- Blue Card PPO
- Blue Choice HMO
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Preferred Patient Care PPO
- Blue Select PPO
- BlueOptions HMO
- Choice Care Network PPO
- Choice Care PPO
- Choice Large Group POS
- Choice POS
- Choice Plus POS
- Choice Plus POS II
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO
- Empower - Small Employer Groups
- Empower POS
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- Florida Blue
- HMO Premier HMO
- Humana
- Inc. d/b/a Florida Blue
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS
- Medica Choice
- National POS
- Navigate HMO
- Navigate POS
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO
- Options PPO
- Preferred PPO
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- Select HMO
- Superior Health Plan
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Steven Baker 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:
- Hammer Toe: A hammer toe develops when the middle joint of your toe bends abnormally, often due to muscle imbalance or arthritis, impacting your ability to walk comfortably.
- Foot Sprain: A sprained foot can make everyday activities difficult, causing pain and limiting your ability to walk; following your doctor's recommendations for rest, icing, and possibly physical therapy will help you recover and improve your quality of life.
- Bunionette: Experiencing pain and stiffness on the outside of your little toe? A bunionette could be the cause, but thankfully, various treatments, from pain relievers to specialized shoes, are available to improve your comfort and reduce mobility issues.
- Foot Fracture: If you've broken a bone in your foot, know that effective treatment, including pain management and physical therapy, can help reduce discomfort and improve your ability to walk comfortably.
- Osteoarthritis of Foot: Osteoarthritis of the foot involves the wearing down of cartilage in the foot's joints, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced flexibility; however, with proper management including medication, physical therapy, and supportive footwear, seniors can maintain their activity levels.
- 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.
- Stress Fracture of Foot: If you've been experiencing foot pain that won't go away, it might be a stress fracture a small crack in a bone which can be managed effectively with rest and specialized footwear, helping you stay comfortable.
- Bunion: Bunions are a common foot problem that often gets worse with age, but with proper care and treatment, you can manage the pain and prevent it from further impacting your daily activities.
- Achilles Tendinitis: Achilles tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendon in your heel that can cause pain and stiffness, making walking more difficult, but with proper treatment, you can regain comfort and mobility.
- Ankle Sprain and Achilles Tendon Sprain or Rupture: Experiencing ankle or Achilles pain? These injuries, ranging from mild sprains to serious ruptures, can significantly impact mobility, but appropriate treatment, including rest, ice, and possibly physical therapy, can help you get back on your feet and maintain your independence.
- Osteoarthritis of Ankle: Ankle osteoarthritis causes pain and stiffness due to the breakdown of the joint's cartilage, affecting your ability to walk and stand, but various treatments can help maintain independence.
- Foot And Ankle Osteophyte: As we age, bone spurs (osteophytes) can form in the feet and ankles, leading to discomfort, but treatment options like medication or physical therapy can help relieve the pain.
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. Steven Baker offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Bunion Surgery: Bunion surgery can be a crucial part of a senior's treatment plan, addressing the underlying cause of bunion pain and deformity which may impact balance and increase fall risk.
- Hammer Toe Repair: Hammer toe repair surgery aims to improve the function and appearance of the affected toe, increasing confidence and independence.
- 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.
- Arthroscopic Joint Surgery: Arthroscopic joint surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that can help diagnose and treat joint problems, improving mobility and reducing pain in seniors.
- Custom Made Foot Orthotic: By supporting proper foot alignment, custom orthotics can help prevent and manage foot problems, allowing seniors to maintain their independence and active lifestyle.
- Fracture Care: Fracture care helps seniors heal broken bones in their feet and ankles, restoring mobility and reducing pain.
- Excision of Femur or Knee: Excision of the femur or knee is a surgical procedure that may be necessary to address severe bone damage or joint disease, improving mobility and quality of life for seniors.
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. Steven Baker 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:
- A senior woman, previously struggling with pain and difficulty walking due to hammer toe, found relief and renewed confidence to navigate her home safely after podiatric care. She was able to resume her favorite activity of gardening without pain.
- Following a podiatrist's guidance, a senior citizen was able to resume walking their beloved dog without pain, regaining a vital part of their daily routine. The sprained foot healed well, leading to increased mobility and confidence in their home environment.
- A senior woman, experiencing discomfort from a bunionette, found relief with custom orthotics and pain management, allowing her to enjoy walking her dog again without pain. Her family was thrilled to see her regain her mobility and zest for life.
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)
- American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (Foot Surgery)
- American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery)
Here are answers to some common questions about Podiatric care with Dr. Steven Baker:
- What is a Podiatrist, and why is foot care so important for seniors?
- Dr. Steven Baker is a podiatrist, a specialist in foot, ankle, and lower leg care. Healthy feet are vital for seniors, as they support mobility, balance, and independence. Dr. Baker is experienced in managing age-related foot problems and preventing complications.
- I have diabetes. How often should I see a Podiatrist like Dr. Steven Baker?
- Regular foot exams are crucial for seniors with diabetes. Dr. Baker recommends a comprehensive exam at least annually to detect issues like neuropathy and poor circulation early. Early detection prevents serious problems like ulcers and amputations.
- Does Medicare cover podiatry visits?
- Medicare Part B often covers podiatric services needed to diagnose and treat foot problems, such as diabetic foot care. However, routine services like simple nail trimming are usually not covered unless they are part of managing an underlying medical condition. Please call our office to discuss your specific needs and coverage.
- What should I do for a painful ingrown toenail?
- We advise against attempting to remove an ingrown toenail at home. Dr. Baker can safely numb the toe and remove the ingrown nail border in the office, providing immediate relief and preventing infection, especially important for seniors with diabetes or poor circulation.
- What is the best way to treat thick, yellow, or fungal toenails?
- 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. This is a treatable health issue, not just a cosmetic one.
- How can Dr. Steven Baker help prevent falls?
- Dr. Baker can help prevent falls by assessing your balance and treating any foot pain that might be affecting your stability. He can also recommend supportive footwear and orthotics to improve your footing and reduce your risk.
- What are custom orthotics and how can they help?
- Custom orthotics are prescription medical devices worn inside shoes. They are made from a precise mold of your foot to correct biomechanical issues, provide support, and relieve pain from conditions like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or arthritis.
- Do you treat sports injuries of the foot and ankle?
- Yes, Dr. Baker is experienced in treating sports injuries of the foot and ankle, including ankle sprains, Achilles tendonitis, and stress fractures. He specializes in helping active seniors safely return to their desired activities.
Modern Foot & Ankle
4700 N Habana Ave Ste 400
Tampa FL 33614
Phone: (813) 499-0774
Dr. Steven Baker, 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): 1982670873
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. Steven Baker 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.