About
Dr. Joanne Lih 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 Abbotsford in Abbotsford, BC, she is a trusted provider of comprehensive foot and ankle care in the community. Her 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. She offers a range of conservative and surgical treatments for various foot and ankle conditions, with a focus on meticulous diagnosis and personalized care. The clinic provides a professional and welcoming environment designed for patient comfort and accessibility, equipped to handle complex cases requiring advanced surgical intervention when conservative options are insufficient.
Dr. Lih earned her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine in 1986 (United States). Following her graduation, she completed postgraduate residency training and licensure examinations necessary to practice as a licensed Podiatrist in British Columbia. With over 38 years of experience, she is a highly qualified Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus), dedicated to ongoing professional development and adherence to the latest standards of care. Her certifications include being a recognized member of the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), reflecting her commitment to excellence and specialized surgical expertise.
Dr. Lih’s professional philosophy centers on a commitment to relieving foot pain and improving mobility for all patients. She emphasizes patient education, involving individuals in their treatment plans to promote understanding and compliance. Utilizing modern diagnostic techniques and evidence-based treatments, she aims to deliver effective and lasting results. A strong focus on preventative care, particularly for high-risk patients such as those with diabetes, guides her approach. She strives to provide compassionate, comprehensive foot and ankle care, enhancing overall well-being and quality of life for her patients. All communication and care are conducted in English, ensuring clarity and personalized attention in every consultation.
Dr. Joanne Lih provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including:
Forefoot and Toe Conditions
Dr. Lih addresses treatment ranges from conservative measures like padding and orthotics to surgical correction.
- Bunions (Hallux Valgus): Management includes wider shoes, padding, orthotics, or surgical correction for severe cases.
- Morton's Neuroma: Managed with wider shoes, orthotics, injections, or surgical excision in persistent cases.
- Hammertoes / Claw Toes / Mallet Toes: Treatment may involve padding, splinting, footwear changes, or surgery.
Diabetic Foot Complications
Dr. Lih addresses serious foot problems that can arise in individuals with diabetes due to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation (peripheral arterial disease).
- Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
- Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) in Lower Limbs: Management involves lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes vascular procedures.
- Diabetic Neuropathy Affecting Feet: Management focuses on blood sugar control and protective foot care.
Skin and Nail Disorders of the Foot
Dr. Lih addresses common ailments affecting the surface of the feet and toenails, often caused by friction, pressure, infection, or underlying systemic conditions.
- Plantar Warts (Verrucae Plantaris): Various treatments are available, including topical acids, cryotherapy, or minor surgical removal.
- Corns (Heloma Durum/Molle) and Calluses (Tyloma): Corns are typically smaller and deeper with a hard core; calluses are more diffuse.
- Ingrown Toenails (Onychocryptosis): Can be treated conservatively or with a minor surgical procedure for permanent correction.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your foot and ankle health, a consultation with Dr. Joanne Lih is necessary.
- Surgical Correction of Hammertoes and Other Toe Deformities: May involve tendon releases, joint arthroplasty, or fusion.
- Treatment for Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis) and Other Skin Infections: Diagnosis and management of common fungal or bacterial skin infections of the feet.
- Ingrown Toenail Treatment (Conservative and Surgical): Management of painful ingrown toenails, including conservative care or minor surgical procedures (e.g., partial nail avulsion, matrixectomy) for permanent correction.
- Diabetic Foot Care and Assessment: Comprehensive neurovascular assessments to detect neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease.
- Management of Forefoot Pain (Metatarsalgia, Neuromas): Therapies may include padding, orthotics, footwear modifications, or injections.
- Sports Podiatry and Injury Management: Guidance on appropriate athletic footwear and rehabilitation exercises.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough foot and ankle examination and consultation with Dr. Lih.
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.
Dr. Lih practices at a specialized podiatry clinic located in the West Abbotsford neighborhood of Abbotsford, BC. The clinic is conveniently situated close to Highway 1 Access, making it easily accessible for patients traveling from surrounding areas. The facility is well-connected via the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit), providing accessible transportation options. The clinic is designed for easy access and patient comfort, featuring modern amenities and ample parking options typically found in proximity to the clinic. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment dedicated to comprehensive foot and ankle care, equipped to handle a wide range of conditions from routine to complex surgical cases.
- Why is diabetic foot care by a Podiatrist like Dr. Lih important?
- Diabetic foot care by a Podiatrist like Dr. Lih is crucial because diabetes can lead to serious foot complications, including nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation. Regular podiatric check-ups help in early detection of these issues, management of calluses or ulcers that could lead to infection, and education on proper self-care to prevent amputations. Dr. Lih provides comprehensive assessments and preventative care for diabetic patients.
- Are services from Dr. Lih covered by provincial health insurance?
- Coverage for podiatry services by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in British Columbia can be specific. In British Columbia, Medical Services Plan (MSP) provides limited coverage for podiatry services. A small number of visits per year may be partially covered for eligible individuals on premium assistance or specific income assistance programs, for medically necessary foot care. Routine foot care, custom orthotics, and most elective procedures are generally not covered by MSP and are private pay services, often eligible for reimbursement through extended health insurance plans. It is highly recommended to verify coverage specifics with Dr. Lih's office and your private insurance provider.
- What is the difference between a Podiatrist like Dr. Lih and a Chiropodist?
- The distinction between a Podiatrist (like Dr. Lih) and a Chiropodist can vary by Canadian province. Podiatrists, particularly DPMs, generally have completed a doctoral degree with a broader scope of practice that may include foot surgery on bones and soft tissues. Chiropodists are also regulated foot specialists, whose training often leads to a scope focused on non-invasive treatments, nail and skin care, and biomechanics, though some may perform minor surgical procedures on soft tissues. Dr. Lih is designated as a Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus).
- Does Dr. Lih prescribe and provide custom foot orthotics?
- Custom foot orthotics are a common treatment provided by Podiatrists. Dr. Lih 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.
- What does a Podiatrist like Dr. Lih specialize in?
- A Podiatrist, such as Dr. Lih, is a healthcare professional (often a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine - DPM) who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of medical and surgical conditions of the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. a Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus), with advanced training and experience in surgical procedures to correct foot and ankle deformities, relieve pain, and restore function. They also provide comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower leg.
- Does Dr. Lih perform foot surgery for conditions like bunions or hammertoes?
- If Dr. Lih's scope of practice as a Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus) includes surgical procedures, she may perform foot surgery for conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, or other deformities when conservative treatments are not sufficient. Surgical intervention aims to relieve pain, correct deformities, and restore proper foot function, following a thorough assessment and discussion with the patient.
- How does Dr. Lih treat ingrown toenails?
- For painful ingrown toenails, Dr. Lih 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 performed to remove the ingrown nail portion, often with a step to prevent recurrence, providing significant relief and permanent correction.
a specialized podiatry clinic in Abbotsford
303-2752 Allwood St
Abbotsford, BC V2T 3R7
Office Phone: (604) 853-3338 | Office Fax: (604) 853-8383
Dr. Lih 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. Lih, but may be needed for coverage under some extended health insurance plans.
Verify Dr. Lih's registration with the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/373729/Lih%2CJoanne