In Texas, most patients do not need a physician referral to schedule an appointment with Dr. Richard Adam or Dr. Derk if using traditional Medicare, TRICARE, or a private PPO health plan. Certain HMO network policies may require a referral from your primary care doctor to ensure your insurance benefits apply. Our staff at Associated Foot & Ankle Specialists of San Antonio will gladly review your insurance policy and verify your coverage requirements prior to your visit.

Podiatrists (Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, DPM) specialize exclusively in the lower extremities, focusing entirely on the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Dr. Richard Adam and Dr. Derk bring extensive clinical and surgical experience treating everything from common skin and nail conditions (such as ingrown toenails and plantar warts) to complex reconstructive surgery, sports injuries, and diabetic wound care. While orthopedic surgeons receive general training across the entire body's musculoskeletal system before sub-specializing, our podiatry team provides focused care dedicated 100% to foot and ankle health.

Sharp, stabbing heel pain during your first steps out of bed is the most common sign of plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the thick band of tissue running along the sole of your foot. While supportive footwear and calf stretching can provide temporary comfort, persistent heel pain should be evaluated by a podiatrist to rule out conditions such as heel spurs or stress fractures. Dr. Adam and Dr. Derk provide personalized treatment plans ranging from semi-custom or custom functional orthotics and targeted physical therapies to advanced medical treatments that address the underlying cause of your heel pain.

Yes. General urgent care facilities and emergency rooms rarely have dedicated foot and ankle doctors on staff, often resulting in temporary splints or basic prescriptions before referring you out. Dr. Richard Adam and Dr. Derk provide priority evaluations at Associated Foot & Ankle Specialists of San Antonio for acute foot issues, including severe ingrown toenails, sudden arch or heel pain, sprains, foreign objects, and infected diabetic wounds. Visiting a specialized podiatry clinic ensures you receive definitive diagnosis, in-office treatment, and targeted relief without unnecessary facility fees or long wait times.