Step Right Up

From toes to legs and everything in between, the Ankle and Foot Center of Central Florida has you covered.

Mobility. It’s a vital part of life. 

When something interferes with your ability to walk, your main focus is on solving that problem.

Fortunately, everything below the knee falls under the expertise of the professionals at the Ankle and Foot Center of Central Florida.

From traumatic cases such as a fracture or sports injury, to diabetic ulcers, arthritis, congenital deformities, bunions and many other issues, the doctors at Ankle and Foot Center provide skilled care and treatment.

The team of three doctors includes Joanne Balkaran, DPM, D.ABFAS, FACFAS,CWS;  Blanca T. Diaz, DPM, DABPM; and Rikesh A. Patel, DPM, AACFAS.

Although they all work together, each doctor subspecializes in different areas. This offers patients the assurance of expert care in one office, no matter their ankle or foot issue. 

Whether it’s a badly ingrown toenail, an acute condition or nagging wound, the scope of care includes anything related to the feet and ankles. 

In addition to traditional surgery, Dr. Balkaran is also board certified in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). This can be a game changer for bunions and hammertoes because the patient gains mobility quickly.

“There’s also less down time and reduced pain. You’re able to walk in a boot one week after surgery and the sutures come out within two weeks,” says Dr. Balkaran, who founded the practice in 2015.

MIS surgery can be performed under local anesthesia in the office surgical suite or at the hospital.

“We also do regenerative medicine, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and laser therapy,” says Dr. Balkaran.

PRP treatment benefits patients with arthritis, tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis by reducing inflammation and increasing cellular healing. 

Diabetic patients can receive comprehensive foot care, including circulation and nerve checks. If they qualify for diabetic shoes, that program is handled by the office.

Because the team works in conjunction with Advent Health and Shands Hospitals, their patients receive the full realm of care.

The compassionate, personal approach extends beyond the office. Dr. Balkaran is a medical director for Special Olympics and goes on medical mission trips
whenever possible.

The practice accepts most insurance and also offers a self-pay rate. 

From pediatric to geriatric patients, the Ankle and Foot Center of Central Florida steps above and beyond for patient care, covering everything below the knee.