Description
About Dr. Randolph Gerber
Dr. Randolph Gerber 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 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, effective, and evidence-based treatments. With a focus on comprehensive podiatric care, he offers a range of conservative and surgical treatments for various foot and ankle conditions. The clinic provides a welcoming and professional environment, equipped to handle complex foot and ankle deformities when conservative measures are insufficient.
Dr. Gerber earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from the California School of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt University in 1986, located in the United States. Following his graduation, he completed required postgraduate residency training and licensure examinations to practice as a Podiatrist in British Columbia. With over 38 years of experience, he is a highly qualified Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus). His certifications include comprehensive surgical training and ongoing professional education, ensuring he remains current with advances in foot and ankle care.
His professional philosophy centers on relieving foot pain and improving mobility for all patients. Dr. Gerber emphasizes patient education, involving individuals in creating personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs. He utilizes modern diagnostic techniques and evidence-based treatments to provide effective and efficient care. A strong advocate for preventative foot health, especially for high-risk patients such as those with diabetes, he is dedicated to delivering compassionate, comprehensive foot and ankle services. All communication and care are provided in English, with a focus on ensuring each patient feels informed and supported throughout their treatment journey.
Foot & Ankle Conditions Addressed by Dr. Randolph Gerber
Dr. Randolph Gerber provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including:
Skin and Nail Disorders of the Foot
Dr. Gerber addresses includes ingrown toenails, fungal infections, warts, corns, and calluses.
- Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis): Can be persistent and difficult to treat.
- Corns (Heloma Durum/Molle) and Calluses (Tyloma): Professional paring and addressing the cause of pressure can provide relief.
- Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis): Treated with topical or oral antifungal medications and attention to foot hygiene.
Heel and Arch Pain Conditions
Dr. Gerber addresses treatment aims to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and restore normal foot function.
- Flat Feet (Pes Planus) / Fallen Arches: A condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to contact the ground.
- Achilles Tendonitis/Tendinopathy: Inflammation or degeneration of the Achilles tendon, causing pain and stiffness at the back of the heel or lower calf.
- Heel Spurs (Calcaneal Spurs): Identified on X-ray.
Diabetic Foot Complications
Dr. Gerber addresses regular podiatric care is crucial for prevention, early detection, and management to avoid amputations.
- Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Require specialized wound care, offloading, infection control, and management of underlying diabetes.
- Diabetic Neuropathy Affecting Feet: Management focuses on blood sugar control and protective foot care.
- Charcot Foot (Neuroarthropathy): Often presents with a warm, swollen, red foot.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your foot and ankle health, a consultation with Dr. Randolph Gerber is necessary.
Podiatry Services by Dr. Randolph Gerber
- Wound Debridement and Management (including Diabetic Foot Ulcers): Crucial for managing complex wounds, especially in diabetic patients.
- Treatment of Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Spurs): Comprehensive approach to relieve pain and restore function.
- Arthritis Management in the Foot and Ankle: Care for patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout affecting the feet and ankles.
- Soft Tissue Surgery (e.g., Neuroma Excision, Ganglion Cyst Removal): Performed when conservative treatments have failed.
- Custom Orthotics and Bracing: Fitting of ankle braces or other supportive devices for various foot and ankle conditions.
- Diabetic Foot Care and Assessment: Wound care management for diabetic foot ulcers and patient education on self-care.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough foot and ankle examination and consultation with Dr. Gerber.
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. Gerber practices at a specialized podiatry clinic located in Kelowna's vibrant Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, and Downtown neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Commercial Corridor, accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is designed for easy access and patient comfort, featuring modern amenities and accessible entry points. Patients can enjoy the convenience of nearby parking options, typically available in proximity to the clinic. This setting provides a professional and welcoming environment for comprehensive foot and ankle care, ensuring that patients receive personalized attention in a comfortable atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions about Foot & Ankle Surgery Care
- How does Dr. Gerber treat ingrown toenails?
- Dr. Gerber 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.
- Does Dr. Gerber perform foot surgery for conditions like bunions or hammertoes?
- Many Podiatrists, especially those designated as podiatric surgeons like Dr. Gerber, are qualified to perform various types of foot surgery. This can include corrective procedures for bunions (hallux valgus), hammertoes, removal of soft tissue masses, or chronic nail problems. With advanced training and experience in surgical procedures to correct foot and ankle deformities, relieve pain, and restore function, Dr. Gerber would assess your specific condition to determine if surgery is the most appropriate treatment option.
- When should I see a Podiatrist like Dr. Gerber?
- A visit to Dr. Gerber is recommended for issues such as chronic heel pain, problems with walking or foot biomechanics, recurrent ankle sprains, diabetic foot assessments, or if you need custom orthotics. Also, seek consultation for any unusual growths, discoloration, or persistent infections of the feet or toenails.
- What is the difference between a Podiatrist like Dr. Gerber 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. Gerber) 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. Gerber is a Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus).
- What are some common foot conditions treated by Dr. Gerber?
- Dr. Gerber 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.
Practice & Licensing Information
a specialized podiatry clinic in Kelowna
230-1855 Kirschner Rd
Kelowna, BC V1Y 4N7
Office Phone: (250) 762-6097 | Office Fax: (778) 484-7373
Dr. Gerber 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. Gerber, but may be needed for coverage under some extended health insurance plans.
Verify Dr. Gerber's registration with the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/373709/Gerber%2CRandolph