Essential Patient Resources at Lexington Podiatry in Kentucky

Does my insurance require a referral from my doctor?

Great news, most insurance companies no longer require a referral! Simply call our front desk team, and we will verify with your insurance if a referral is needed and contact you before your scheduled appointment.

Stretches

These stretches are part of a comprehensive treatment plan for patients with certain issues. These can all be performed in the comfort of your home instead of spending time at physical therapy.

We cannot stress enough how good yoga is for our patients!! There are a lot of good yoga apps out there but here is one that we recommend.

• For Google Play
• For App Store

Try combining these stretches with foam rolling to maximize your treatment. A foam roller enables you to apply direct pressure to sore muscles, allowing you to roll out troubled areas such as knots.

Remember, pain in your hips and back can often be linked to your feet. The same goes with knee pain. If you're experiencing pain, it's your body's way of telling you that something's wrong.

Foam Rolling

As we age, our muscles naturally lose elasticity causing us to endure more aches and pains. The good news is that there's an affordable and simple way to help manage and prevent these increased aches and pains. For many people, foam rolling and stretching are just added tasks at the gym that rarely get done. Although having an intense and hard workout is necessary in order to achieve fitness goals, foam rolling and stretching are equally as important. Foam rolling flushes out toxins that build up during your workouts, resulting in a faster and more efficient recovery for your body. It does this through the process of self-myofascial release, or a self-massage. A foam roller enables you to apply direct pressure to sore muscles, allowing you to roll out troubled areas such as knots.

How To Use A Foam Roller

Do you see foam rollers at the gym, but aren't exactly sure how to properly use them? Here are 3 tips to help you foam roll more effectively:

1. Avoid rolling directly onto the painful area. Rolling directly onto your area of pain can increase inflammation. Instead, try targeting the muscles surrounding the area. They are likely the source of the imbalance and tension in your body and by focusing on them can help your muscles relax and repair.
2. Take your time! In order to get the maximum benefit, give your brain time to process so that it can tell your muscles to relax. You can break up adhesions and scar tissue by slowly rolling over sore parts of your body. Doing this can help boost the recovery process after working out.
3. Do foam rolling for at least ten minutes, twice a week. This can help relieve stress, improve posture, and help prevent future injuries.

How Can A Foam Roller Benefit You?

• Massages and Relaxes your muscles: Loosen up tight areas such as your outer thighs by laying on top of the roller while slowly rolling back and forth over it with the weight of your body.
• Provides self-accupressure: Using it to roll over tight spots relaxes the muscles. However, for extremely tight areas applying constant pressure may work best.
• Can be used as a stretching aid: The softness of the foam roller can not only help increase your range of motion, but provide extra support for poses.
• Rehabilitates your feet: Gently roll the arch of your foot back and forth on top of the foam roller while applying pressure as needed.

Whether you're an athlete, dedicated employee, or just in need of a stress reliever, foam rolling can benefit you. Save your money on a deep tissue massage and give yourself one with your foam roller. Happy rolling!

DME Tutorials

Tutorials

We know that coming to the doctor can be overwhelming. You were given a lot of information about your diagnosis, treatment plan and how to use the boot or brace you just received. By the time you get home, it can be hard to remember all the instructions, leaving you worried that you are not doing things right.

No need to worry! We have video tutorials to show you how to properly wear/use the boot or brace you may have received. We want you to wear everyth-ing properly because that is how you are going to get better the fastest. An ill-worn brace/boot can delay treatment.

You can watch any of the tutorials at the links provided.

Remember to follow the doctor's instructions for how long you should wear the item dispensed to you. If you have any question please contact our office at 859-264-1141 and we will be happy to help.

How do I talk to a nurse?

Our phone number is . Due to the high volume of calls we receive daily, we use an automated system for all phone calls. Voicemails are checked several times throughout the day and discussed with physicians in between patients. We will make every effort to return your call by the end of the day. Routine calls received after 4:30 may not receive a phone call till the following day. Urgent calls are triaged by our nursing staff and calls are returned as quickly as possible.

At any time, you may contact your provider securely through the patient portal and they will respond within a day, during normal business hours.

Where Do I Park?

We are located just off Sir Barton Dr. in the Hamburg Shopping Area with handicap accessibility, plenty of parking directly around the building and easy access from the interstate. For exact directions from your location, enter your address on our contact page and step-by-step GPS directions are available.

What do I need to bring to my new patient appointment?

• If you haven’t already, please fill out the new patient information through our patient portal. If you did not receive an email with your login information, please call 859-264-1141.
• Please read over our Privacy Policy and Financial Policy.
• Please bring your driver’s license, valid insurance card and form of payment for your co-pay. Co-pays are due before service.
• Make sure your insurance information is valid. Outdated information may result in claim denials by your insurance so be sure they are accurate. You will be responsible for payment of any claim denials.
• Please wear or bring the shoes you wear most often. If you may be fitted with a brace, bring a pair of tennis shoes.
• If you have orthotics, please bring them – even if they are from somewhere else or if you didn’t wear them much.
• Bring a list of the medication you are currently taking.
• If you will need assistance getting into our offices, please let us know ahead of time. We’ll be happy to help! Please arrive a little earlier than your appointment time to get settled in if you need assistance.
• In order to ensure we are respectful of other patients’ scheduled appointments, we will reschedule your appointment if you are more than 15 minutes late.
• Minors (under age 18) should be accompanied by an adult with legal medical-decision-making authority during their initial visit. On subsequent visits, the minor must also be accompanied for treatment by an adult. However, many times legal guardians are not able to accompany their teen or young adult child to an appointment. Please call the office for a form to designate individual authority to consent to any and all treatments.

Are you taking new patients?

Yes, we are! Information for new patients can be found here.

What should I know about my surgical date?

Day Before Your Surgery

• Explicitly follow any guidelines given to you at your previous visit.
• Don’t shave near the area where the surgery is to be performed.
• If you are a smoker, please don’t smoke the day before.
• Don’t eat or drink after midnight.

Day Of Your Surgery

• Make sure you arrive an hour before your appointment time at the Kentucky Surgery Center and Baptist Physicians Surgical Center or two hours before your appointment time at St. Joe East.
• If you’ve been instructed to take any routine or other medication, please take it prior to showing up for your appointment.
• Wear loose and comfortable clothing, including flat shoes.
• If you wear contacts, please wear your glasses instead.
• Depending on the surgical area, or if you are administered general anesthesia, you will not be permitted to drive home. Make sure you’ve made arrangements.

Do you run on time?

We are very mindful that you have many choices for medical care and we thank you for choosing us. Our providers are attentive to the individual needs of each patient. Appointments most often run on time, but if there is a medical emergency, an appointment time may be delayed. In the rare event that we are delayed, we will do our best to communicate in a timely manner and assure you that you will receive the same individualized care.

Please help yourself to the free coffee and hot tea in our reception area. Additional snacks are available should you need some refreshment while you wait. Just ask our friendly receptionist team!

We strive to run on time to respect our patient's busy schedules. If you are late for your appointment time, we will do our best to see you in order, but you may be worked in behind other patients that were on time. If you are 15 minutes late, you will be rescheduled.

How much will my visit cost?

The cost of your visit depends on your insurance. Many times, the front of your insurance card will tell you the co-pay that you will be responsible for paying when you come to see a specialist.

Your co-pay is due before your service.

However, as a courtesy to you, we will call your insurance company ahead of time to see if your first visit will be covered and to get an estimated coverage for various services that we offer (which you will be informed of upon your first visit).

Have a high deductible?

Don't worry, we understand. Please contact our Billing Manager at ext 53 if you are interested in learning how you can save by becoming a self-pay patient at Lexington Podiatry OR examine some of our most common self-pay treatment prices.

We care about your health, and want to make sure you have options to get the help you need. Many treatments and medical products are covered by Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts. In addition, we offer Care Credit.

Will my X-Rays be covered by insurance?

Depending on your insurance, X-Rays are typically a covered treatment by most insurance plans. If your insurance happens to not cover them, we can work with you to set a prompt pay price, usually running between $30-$50.

How quickly can I return to work after my ingrown toenail procedure/removal?

We recommend taking it easy the rest of the day.

If you must return to work that day and have an office position, prop your foot up while wearing an open-toe style shoe to avoid putting pressure on the nail.

If your position requires some type of steel-toe or rigid shoes and you must return to work, we recommend taking it 'as easy as possible' and frequently remove your shoe to visually inspect for any signs of bleeding or swelling.

This is not recommended as continuous pressure immediately following removal can delay healing and increase chances of an infection.

What does a nerve biopsy show?

This test determines if the small nerve fibers throughout your legs and feet are functioning properly.

Depending on if you're a male/female and your age, you have a certain range that your nerves should be functioning at. This test shows if you are functioning in your range or not and measures the density of the nerve fibers found in your skin. From there, we can determine if you need a medication or need to be referred out to a neurologist for more testing.

Will insurance cover DME (durable medical equipment)?

We provide complimentary insurance verifications to check benefits/DME coverage before your appointment.

If you have a deductible that has not been met, you may be required to cover the portion that your insurance doesn't cover. We do offer Care Credit and payment plans on certain items. Our billing department can help clarify your questions, but your insurance provider is a valuable resource for these questions as well.

How many pairs of orthotics does my insurance cover?

Many insurance plans cover one pair of orthotics per year, depending on the diagnosis. Some insurances may actually cover two per year. We provide a complimentary check of estimated benefits before your visit to reduce the chance for surprises.

Are the orthotics a permanent fix for my issue?

No. However, it is the most effective prescription corrective device used to prevent your issue from getting worse.

Do I need to remove my toenail polish when visiting the podiatrist?

Yes. Your toenails reveal many things about your overall health, including whether you may have toenail fungus.

Is laser therapy for fungal toenails covered by insurance?

No. Although it is the most advanced treatment for fungal toenails, laser therapy is still considered a cosmetic service. Many lasers that are being advertised are not strong enough to penetrate the nail bed - it's necessary to use a laser that is strong enough to reach the fungal infection. Although insurance does not currently cover laser therapy, Care Credit, Health Savings Accounts and Flex Spending Accounts will cover the procedure. Learn more about Laser Therapy for Fungal Nails and whether this treatment option is for you.

Does a minor have to be accompanied by a parent?

Minors (under age 18) must be accompanied by an adult with legal medical decision-making authority.

On subsequent visits, the minor must also be accompanied for treatment by an adult. However, many times legal guardians are not able to accompany their teen or young adult child to an appointment.

Please contact the office for a Consent to Treat form to give the designated individual authority to consent to any and all treatments.

What is the process for FMLA paperwork?

You may bring in, fax, email or send the paperwork through the patient portal.

There will be a $25 charge for every FMLA paperwork request.

Do you offer free foot exams?

Yes! We often take our medical team to corporate events, job sites and health fairs to conduct complimentary foot health screenings. If you're interested in having us out to your own place of work, please send a request to [javascript protected email address] and we will be happy to send you more information!

Learn the common causes and preventative measures for Heel Pain and Diabetic Foot Care. Understand how different treatments may help alleviate your pain and discomforts. Request your FREE copies and join our newsletter today.

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At Lexington Podiatry, our goal is to have a collaborative relationship with our patients to get them better as fast as possible. For that reason, for our ESTABLISHED PATIENTS seen within the last 3 years, we offer a private text line called “Text the Doctor”. This line is open during office hours with direct access to our providers. If you have questions about your treatment plan, worsening pain, prescription requests, emergencies or activity recommendations, please shoot us a text! Our text number is (859) 217-4534.

Lexington Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Specialists always appreciates feedback from our valued patients.

VICKIE S

My first visit was yesterday, and I was very impressed by the friendly and caring staff, especially Dr. Freels, Jordan, and Abigail. I felt like my needs were individualized and being met right from the start. I'm excited to see how my foot improves and I truly feel it now will. Thanks to you all!

Isabella F

Amazing and quick service. The people are friendly and care about you. They are willing to joke and tell you the information.

Robyn B

Lexington Podiatry is absolutely the best podiatrist office in the state. Not only do they excel at the physician aspect, they have customer service and comfort of the patient perfected! My family and I have been patients at Lexington Podiatry for several years and have never had anything but positive experiences! I highly recommend Dr Jamie Carter as we have been her patients for years however I’m sure the other doctors are great as well.

Lynn J

I walked into Lexington Podiatry in so much pain. I had X-rays and Dr. Carter gave me my diagnosis, and told me how she would treat me. By the time I got home I felt like a New person. No pain in my feet and I wasn't using the cane! I am so glad I went to Lexington Podiatry. Thank you Dr. Carter you're simply the Best!!!

George A

Love this place! The doctors and staff are very knowledgeable and super friendly. First foot doctor ever to figure out what was actually wrong with my foot. I would highly recommend them if you have any problems with your feet!

Marcia H

I cannot say enough great things about Dr. Carter. Not only did she pinpoint my dad’s problem and treat him, she did so with such kindness. Everyone in the entire practice was great!

Skip S

I really value the quality of care I receive at Lexington Podiatry. From Dr. Freels and the other great physicians, to the quality technicians and friendly office staff, the practice is great!

Nicole M

As always my visit was amazing! The office has taken precautions to help patients feel safe during COVID. Everyone is wearing masks and I was quickly brought back to the exam room where I waited there instead of the waiting room before being seen. Super organized and efficient process from start to finish! And the treatment received from Dr. Barko was great!

Ryan R

Freels always puts a smile on my face. Lexington podiatry knows how a doctors office should be ran. From the moment you walk in to the moment you walk out it’s an experience! Good work ladies.

Robyn B

Lexington Podiatry is absolutely the best podiatrist office in the state. Not only do they excel at the physician aspect, they have customer service and comfort of the patient perfected! My family and I have been patients at Lexington Podiatry for several years and have never had anything but positive experiences! I highly recommend Dr Jamie Carter as we have been her patients for years however I’m sure the other doctors are great as well.

Janell T

I was very impressed with my first appointment. All of the staff were friendly and professional. Dr. Carter quickly diagnosed my issue, which is rare. I will have testing to confirm the diagnosis. I felt listened to. No other podiatrist had even expressed this as a possible issue and treated everything separately. I’m a patient for life.

Courtney J

Everyone that I came into contact with was absolutely friendly and very knowledgeable. The check in and out staff were amazing also! I would absolutely recommend Lexington Podiatry to anyone.

BBN Physical Therapy