Description
About Dr. Cuong Phan
Dr. Cuong Phan is a dedicated Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus), committed to providing exceptional foot and ankle care to patients of all ages with foot and ankle concerns. Practicing at a specialized podiatry clinic in Kelowna in Kelowna, BC, he is a trusted provider of comprehensive foot and ankle care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based treatments. Dr. Phan offers a range of conservative and surgical treatments for various foot and ankle conditions, with a focus on restoring function and alleviating pain. The clinic provides comprehensive podiatric care, including advanced surgical options for complex deformities when conservative treatments are insufficient.
Dr. Phan earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine in 2016, followed by postgraduate residency training and licensure examinations required to practice as a Podiatrist in British Columbia. With over 8 years of experience since 2016, he is a highly qualified Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus). He holds certifications that affirm his expertise, including being a licensed Podiatrist with the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia.
Dr. Phan's professional philosophy centers on relieving foot pain and improving mobility for all patients. He emphasizes educating patients about their foot health and involving them in creating personalized treatment plans. Utilizing modern diagnostic techniques and evidence-based treatments, he prioritizes preventative care, especially for high-risk patients such as those with diabetes. His approach is compassionate and comprehensive, aimed at enhancing overall well-being. He is also proficient in French and Vietnamese, ensuring clear communication with diverse patient populations. Located in Kelowna’s Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, and Downtown neighborhoods, his clinic is easily accessible via the Commercial Corridor and Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is designed for easy access and patient comfort, with parking typically available near the clinic, often with accessible spots, providing a welcoming environment for foot and ankle care.
Foot & Ankle Conditions Addressed by Dr. Cuong Phan
Dr. Cuong Phan provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including:
Diabetic Foot Complications
Dr. Phan addresses includes foot ulcers, infections, and Charcot foot.
- Diabetic Neuropathy Affecting Feet: Management focuses on blood sugar control and protective foot care.
- Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Open sores or wounds on the feet that are slow to heal, often occurring in areas of pressure or injury in patients with neuropathy or poor circulation.
- Charcot Foot (Neuroarthropathy): Early diagnosis and immobilization (e.g., casting) are critical to prevent severe deformity.
Forefoot and Toe Conditions
Dr. Phan addresses includes bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, and metatarsalgia.
- Sesamoiditis: Common in dancers and athletes, causing pain under the big toe.
- Metatarsalgia: General pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot (metatarsal region).
- Hammertoes / Claw Toes / Mallet Toes: Deformities of the lesser toes causing them to bend abnormally at one or more joints.
Skin and Nail Disorders of the Foot
Dr. Phan addresses includes ingrown toenails, fungal infections, warts, corns, and calluses.
- Corns (Heloma Durum/Molle) and Calluses (Tyloma): Thickened areas of skin that develop due to repeated pressure or friction, often over bony prominences.
- Ingrown Toenails (Onychocryptosis): Commonly affects the big toe.
- Plantar Warts (Verrucae Plantaris): Can spread if not treated.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your foot and ankle health, a consultation with Dr. Cuong Phan is necessary.
Podiatry Services by Dr. Cuong Phan
- Custom Orthotics and Bracing: Fitting of ankle braces or other supportive devices for various foot and ankle conditions.
- Plantar Wart (Verruca Plantaris) Treatment: Multiple treatments may be required for complete resolution.
- Management of Corns, Calluses, and Blisters: Professional debridement (paring down) of painful corns and calluses.
- Routine Foot Care Services: Professional trimming and care of toenails, including thickened or ingrown nails.
- Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Examination: Thorough assessment of foot and ankle health, including evaluation of skin, nails, circulation, nerve function, and biomechanics.
- Nail Surgery (e.g., Permanent Ingrown Toenail Correction): Performed under local anesthesia in an office setting.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough foot and ankle examination and consultation with Dr. Phan.
All podiatry services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Podiatric Medical Association (CPMA) and College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) guidelines. Referral requirements may vary based on your extended health plan.
Practice Location & Contact
Dr. Phan practices at a specialized podiatry clinic located in the heart of Kelowna's Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, and Downtown neighborhoods. The clinic is situated conveniently near the Commercial Corridor, making it easily accessible for patients. It is well-connected via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), providing public transportation options. The facility is designed for easy access and patient comfort, with ample parking nearby, often including accessible spots. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment dedicated to comprehensive foot and ankle care, equipped with modern diagnostic tools and treatment facilities to address a wide array of foot and ankle concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions about Foot & Ankle Surgery Care
- Does Dr. Phan prescribe and provide custom foot orthotics?
- Custom foot orthotics are a common treatment provided by Podiatrists. Dr. Phan can evaluate your foot structure and walking pattern to design orthotics that address your specific biomechanical needs, helping to alleviate pain from conditions like heel spurs, bunions, or arch pain, and improve overall foot comfort and alignment.
- When should I see a Podiatrist like Dr. Phan?
- You should consider seeing a Podiatrist like Dr. Phan for any persistent foot or ankle pain, skin or nail problems (like ingrown toenails, warts, fungal infections), foot deformities (bunions, hammertoes), sports injuries affecting the lower limb, or if you have diabetes and require specialized foot care. A referral may or may not be needed depending on your insurance and the clinic's policy.
- Are services from Dr. Phan covered by provincial health insurance?
- Provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)) coverage for podiatric care by Dr. Phan in British Columbia is limited. Many services are private pay or covered by extended health benefits, though some medically necessary services for eligible groups might have partial MSP coverage. Always confirm with Dr. Phan's office and your insurer.
- What does a Podiatrist like Dr. Phan specialize in?
- Dr. Phan is a Podiatrist, a specialist with extensive training in all aspects of foot and ankle health. He diagnoses and treats a wide array of conditions, from common skin and nail problems to complex biomechanical issues and foot deformities, sometimes including surgical interventions. With advanced training and experience in surgical procedures to correct foot and ankle deformities, relieve pain, and restore function.
- What is the difference between a Podiatrist like Dr. Phan and a Chiropodist?
- In Canada, the terms 'Podiatrist' and 'Chiropodist' both refer to regulated primary healthcare professionals specializing in foot health, but there can be differences in their training and scope of practice, varying by province. Generally, Podiatrists (often DPMs - Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, like Dr. Phan) have a doctorate degree involving more extensive medical and surgical training, potentially including bone surgery of the foot. Chiropodists typically have a diploma or advanced diploma in chiropody and their scope may be more focused on non-surgical care, routine foot care, and management of skin/nail conditions, though some may perform soft tissue surgery. The regulatory body in British Columbia defines the specific scope for each. Dr. Phan is a Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus).
- How does Dr. Phan treat ingrown toenails?
- For painful ingrown toenails, Dr. Phan offers various treatments. Initial management might include careful trimming and advice. If the problem is persistent or infected, a simple in-office surgical procedure can be done to remove the ingrown nail portion, often with a step to prevent recurrence, offering significant relief.
- Why is diabetic foot care by a Podiatrist like Dr. Phan important?
- For individuals with diabetes, seeing a Podiatrist such as Dr. Phan is vital for preventing and managing foot problems. Diabetes can reduce sensation and blood flow to the feet, making them vulnerable to ulcers and infections that can escalate quickly. Dr. Phan performs regular screenings, treats any emerging issues, and educates patients on how to protect their feet.
Practice & Licensing Information
a specialized podiatry clinic in Kelowna
229-1634 Harvey Ave
Kelowna, BC V1Y 6G2
Office Phone: (250) 762-3325
Dr. Phan is a licensed Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus) regulated by the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act and Podiatrists Regulation in British Columbia. A referral from a family physician is generally not required to see Dr. Phan, but may be needed for coverage under some extended health insurance plans.
Verify Dr. Phan's registration with the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/376089/Phan%2CCuong