Dr. Shervyn Davis Polonsky – Podiatrist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Shervyn Polonsky 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 Vancouver in Vancouver, 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). With a focus on both conservative and surgical treatments, he offers a range of options for various foot and ankle conditions. The clinic provides a welcoming environment with modern facilities designed for patient comfort and easy access, including convenient parking options nearby. It is located in Vancouver's Renfrew-Collingwood West and Killarney East neighborhoods, close to Science World, accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront), ensuring convenient access for patients from across the region.

Dr. Polonsky earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from the California School of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt University in 1976, in the United States. Following his graduation, he completed required postgraduate residency training and licensure examinations to practice as a qualified Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus) in British Columbia. With over 48 years of experience, he is well-versed in a wide array of foot and ankle conditions. His professional certifications include being a licensed Podiatrist (DPM), with a commitment to ongoing education and adherence to the latest clinical guidelines.

Dr. Polonsky’s professional philosophy centers on relieving foot pain and enhancing mobility for all patients. He believes in educating his patients about their foot health and involving them in creating personalized treatment plans. Utilizing modern diagnostic techniques and evidence-based treatments, he emphasizes preventative care, especially for high-risk patients such as those with diabetes. His approach combines compassion with clinical expertise to deliver comprehensive foot and ankle care that improves overall well-being. All communication and patient care are provided in English, ensuring clear understanding and trust.

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

Forefoot and Toe Conditions

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

• Hammertoes / Claw Toes / Mallet Toes: Can cause pain, corns, calluses, and difficulty fitting shoes.
• Morton's Neuroma: Managed with wider shoes, orthotics, injections, or surgical excision in persistent cases.
• Metatarsalgia: General pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot (metatarsal region).

Heel and Arch Pain Conditions

Dr. Polonsky addresses diagnosis and management of conditions like plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and Achilles tendonitis.

• Flat Feet (Pes Planus) / Fallen Arches: Often managed with supportive footwear and custom orthotics.
• Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, causing sharp heel pain, especially with first steps in the morning.
• Achilles Tendonitis/Tendinopathy: Often related to overuse, tight calf muscles, or improper training techniques.

Skin and Nail Disorders of the Foot

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

• Plantar Warts (Verrucae Plantaris): Various treatments are available, including topical acids, cryotherapy, or minor surgical removal.
• Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis): Thrives in warm, moist environments.
• Ingrown Toenails (Onychocryptosis): A condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and potential infection.

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

• Arthritis Management in the Foot and Ankle: Care for patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout affecting the feet and ankles.
• Routine Foot Care Services: Professional trimming and care of toenails, including thickened or ingrown nails.
• Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Examination: Diagnosis of foot conditions and development of personalized treatment plans.
• Nail Surgery (e.g., Permanent Ingrown Toenail Correction): Performed under local anesthesia in an office setting.
• Surgical Correction of Bunions (Hallux Valgus): Surgical procedures to realign the big toe joint, remove bony prominences, and relieve pain associated with bunions.
• Treatment for Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis) and Other Skin Infections: Prescription of appropriate topical or oral medications.

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

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. Polonsky's primary podiatry clinic is located in Vancouver's vibrant neighborhoods of Renfrew-Collingwood West and Killarney East. The clinic is situated near Science World, providing easy access via public transportation, including TransLink's SkyTrain lines (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is designed for patient comfort and accessibility, with convenient parking options usually available nearby. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment dedicated to comprehensive foot and ankle care in Vancouver.

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

For individuals with diabetes, seeing a Podiatrist such as Dr. Polonsky 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. Polonsky performs regular screenings, treats any emerging issues, and educates patients on how to protect their feet.

Does Dr. Polonsky prescribe and provide custom foot orthotics?

Yes, Podiatrists like Dr. Polonsky are experts in biomechanics and often prescribe custom foot orthotics. After a thorough biomechanical assessment and gait analysis, he can determine if custom orthotics are appropriate for your condition, such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or other alignment issues, to help relieve pain and improve foot function. Casts or scans of your feet are typically taken to create devices tailored to your specific needs.

When should I see a Podiatrist like Dr. Polonsky?

A visit to Dr. Polonsky 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.

How does Dr. Polonsky treat ingrown toenails?

For painful ingrown toenails, Dr. Polonsky 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.

What is the difference between a Podiatrist like Dr. Polonsky 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. Polonsky) 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. Polonsky is a Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus).

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

As a Podiatrist, Dr. Polonsky manages numerous foot problems. These frequently include issues requiring custom orthotics, treatment for skin and nail conditions, management of foot pain from arthritis or injury, care for structural deformities, and specialized diabetic foot assessments. With advanced training and experience in surgical procedures to correct foot and ankle deformities, relieve pain, and restore function.

a specialized podiatry clinic in Vancouver
3587 Kingsway
Vancouver, BC V5R 5L9

Office Phone: (604) 913-5666

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

Verify Dr. Polonsky's registration with the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/373742/Polonsky%2CShervyn