Dr. Neil Douglas Brown – Podiatrist | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Neil Brown 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 Kelowna Podiatry Office of Dr. Neil Brown in Kelowna, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized 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 and effective treatments. Dr. Brown offers a range of conservative and surgical treatments for various foot and ankle conditions, including advanced surgical options for complex deformities when necessary. His goal is to improve mobility, relieve pain, and enhance overall foot health.

Dr. Brown earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from the California School of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt University in 2009, in the United States. Following his graduation, he completed postgraduate residency training and licensure examinations to practice as a Podiatrist in British Columbia. With over 15 years of experience in the field, he is a qualified Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus). His certifications and ongoing education ensure he stays current with the latest advancements in podiatric medicine and surgery.

His professional philosophy centers on a commitment to relieving foot pain and improving mobility for all patients. Dr. Brown believes in educating his patients about their foot health and involving them in creating personalized treatment plans. He utilizes modern diagnostic techniques and evidence-based treatments to provide effective care. With a focus on preventative strategies, especially for high-risk patients such as those with diabetes, he aims to promote long-term foot health. Dr. Brown offers all patient communication and care in English and is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive foot and ankle care to the Kelowna community.

Dr. Neil Brown provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including:

Forefoot and Toe Conditions

Dr. Brown addresses problems affecting the ball of the foot and the toes, often due to pressure, friction, nerve issues, or joint deformities.

• Bunions (Hallux Valgus): A bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing the big toe to deviate towards the other toes.
• Sesamoiditis: Managed with rest, padding, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory measures.
• Metatarsalgia: General pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot (metatarsal region).

Diabetic Foot Complications

Dr. Brown addresses includes foot ulcers, infections, and Charcot foot.

• Charcot Foot (Neuroarthropathy): Often presents with a warm, swollen, red foot.
• Diabetic Neuropathy Affecting Feet: Management focuses on blood sugar control and protective foot care.
• Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) in Lower Limbs: Narrowing or blockage of arteries supplying blood to the legs and feet, common in diabetes.

Skin and Nail Disorders of the Foot

Dr. Brown addresses includes ingrown toenails, fungal infections, warts, corns, and calluses.

• Corns (Heloma Durum/Molle) and Calluses (Tyloma): Corns are typically smaller and deeper with a hard core; calluses are more diffuse.
• Plantar Warts (Verrucae Plantaris): Warts on the soles of the feet caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), often appearing as rough, grainy growths that can be painful when walking.
• Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis): Treatment options include topical medications, oral antifungals, or laser therapy.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your foot and ankle health, a consultation with Dr. Neil Brown is necessary.

• Treatment of Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Spurs): Comprehensive approach to relieve pain and restore function.
• Sports Podiatry and Injury Management: Guidance on appropriate athletic footwear and rehabilitation exercises.
• Ingrown Toenail Treatment (Conservative and Surgical): Performed under local anesthesia in a clinical setting.
• Custom Orthotics and Bracing: Orthotics for sports injuries, arthritis, and structural foot deformities.
• Surgical Correction of Bunions (Hallux Valgus): Surgical procedures to realign the big toe joint, remove bony prominences, and relieve pain associated with bunions.
• Routine Foot Care Services: Reduction of corns and calluses to alleviate pain and discomfort.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough foot and ankle examination and consultation with Dr. Brown.

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. Brown's primary clinic, the Kelowna Podiatry Office of Dr. Neil Brown, is located in the heart of Kelowna's Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighbourhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Kelowna Sails Sculpture, making it a recognizable landmark. Easily accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), the clinic offers accessible facilities and a welcoming environment for comprehensive foot and ankle care. Patients can generally find on-site or nearby street parking, ensuring a hassle-free visit. The clinic is designed for easy access and patient comfort, providing a professional setting for diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot and ankle conditions.

What are some common foot conditions treated by Dr. Brown?

Dr. Brown treats a wide array of foot and ankle conditions. Common ones include plantar fasciitis (heel pain), bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections, plantar warts, corns and calluses, athlete's foot, diabetic foot problems, and sports-related foot injuries. with advanced training and experience in surgical procedures to correct foot and ankle deformities, relieve pain, and restore function.

Are services from Dr. Brown 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. Brown's office and your private insurance provider.

Why is diabetic foot care by a Podiatrist like Dr. Brown important?

Diabetic foot care by a Podiatrist like Dr. Brown 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. Brown provides comprehensive assessments and preventative care for diabetic patients.

How does Dr. Brown treat ingrown toenails?

Dr. Brown can treat ingrown toenails effectively. Depending on the severity, treatment may involve conservative measures such as proper nail trimming techniques and lifting the nail edge. For recurrent or more severe cases, He can perform a minor surgical procedure under local anesthetic to remove the offending portion of the nail, and may also apply a chemical to prevent that section from regrowing (matrixectomy), providing a permanent solution.

What is the difference between a Podiatrist like Dr. Brown and a Chiropodist?

The distinction between a Podiatrist (like Dr. Brown) 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. Brown is designated as a Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus).

Does Dr. Brown prescribe and provide custom foot orthotics?

Custom foot orthotics are a common treatment provided by Podiatrists. Dr. Brown 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.

Kelowna Podiatry Office of Dr. Neil Brown
1710 Ellis St Unit 16
Kelowna, BC V1Y 2B5

Office Phone: (778) 484-2284 | Office Fax: (250) 980-3403 | Practice Website: http://www.kelownafootdoctor.com/

Dr. Brown 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. Brown, but may be needed for coverage under some extended health insurance plans.

Verify Dr. Brown's registration with the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/373692/Brown%2CNeil