Gelbmann Podiatry, a Chicago-based foot and ankle clinic, has been featured in a spotlight article examining its patient-first philosophy and role in addressing chronic lower-extremity health problems. The clinic is using the feature to call for increased public awareness about untreated foot, ankle, and leg conditions, which often worsen silently and lead to significant long-term mobility challenges. Dr. David Gelbmann, the clinic's founder, noted that delayed diagnosis remains a major barrier to patient improvement. "People don't want to wait days for answers. They want clarity now," he said in the feature. The clinic utilizes high-resolution digital X-rays to provide patients with fast, accurate diagnoses during the same visit, which is considered crucial for reducing long-term complications.
The need for awareness is underscored by national health statistics. According to the National Institutes of Health, lower-extremity pain affects nearly one in four adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that chronic foot-related conditions—including neuropathy, tendinitis, and diabetic wounds—are among the most common causes of mobility loss in adults over 40. The clinic emphasizes that untreated issues contribute to reduced activity, weight gain, diminished balance, and increased fall risk among older adults.
Gelbmann Podiatry highlighted three key areas for public action. First, individuals should not ignore persistent symptoms from conditions like Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, plantar warts, hammertoes, and chronic tendinitis, which can escalate if left untreated. Second, people should seek modern, evidence-based treatment options. The clinic utilizes technologies such as MLS Class IV laser therapy and Swift microwave wart treatment, which have demonstrated strong success rates with minimal recovery time. "If a tool doesn't genuinely help the patient get better faster, we don't bring it in," Gelbmann stated.
Third, understanding the importance of advanced wound care is critical. The American Diabetes Association reports that 15% of people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer, with chronic wounds increasing the risk of serious infection and hospitalization. "Chronic wounds can take over someone's life. When we help a patient finally heal, we give them back freedom," Gelbmann said. The clinic is advocating for a more patient-centered care model in podiatry, contrasting with high-volume practice pressures. "A patient should never feel like a number. They should feel like a partner," Dr. Gelbmann emphasized. His approach involves longer appointments, clear explanations, and realistic recovery planning, which he hopes can serve as a model for other clinics.
In light of the feature, Gelbmann Podiatry urges simple steps for foot health: weekly self-checks for swelling, skin changes, or non-healing wounds; taking persistent pain seriously; prioritizing supportive footwear; seeking early evaluation; and staying informed about modern treatment options. "People want to feel better and feel heard. If we can do both, we're doing our job," Gelbmann said. "But the first step always starts with the patient taking their symptoms seriously."
