Dr. Thomas Earl Garner – Podiatrist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Thomas Garner 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 Victoria, 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). Dr. Garner offers a range of conservative and surgical treatments for various foot and ankle conditions, utilizing the latest techniques and evidence-based approaches. The clinic provides a welcoming environment designed for patient comfort and accessibility, ensuring comprehensive podiatric care, including advanced surgical options for complex deformities when conservative treatments are insufficient.

He earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine in 1990 in the United States. Following his graduation, he completed required postgraduate residency training and licensure examinations to practice as a licensed Podiatrist (Foot & Ankle Surgery Focus) in British Columbia. With over 34 years of experience, he is a highly qualified practitioner dedicated to advancing foot and ankle health. Dr. Garner holds key certifications, reflecting his commitment to professional excellence and ongoing education in podiatric surgery and foot health.

Dr. Garner’s professional philosophy centers on relieving foot pain and improving mobility for all patients. He emphasizes patient education, involving individuals in creating personalized treatment plans. Utilizing modern diagnostic techniques and evidence-based treatments, he aims to deliver effective, minimally invasive care whenever possible. His focus on preventative care, especially for high-risk patients such as those with diabetes, underscores his commitment to preserving foot health. He is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive foot and ankle care to enhance overall well-being in Victoria. Additionally, Dr. Garner is proficient in French, ensuring clear communication with a diverse patient population.

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

Forefoot and Toe Conditions

Dr. Garner 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.
• Hammertoes / Claw Toes / Mallet Toes: Treatment may involve padding, splinting, footwear changes, or surgery.
• Metatarsalgia: Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, often with orthotics and activity modification.

Skin and Nail Disorders of the Foot

Dr. Garner provides expert diagnosis and treatment to alleviate discomfort and restore healthy skin and nails.

• Plantar Warts (Verrucae Plantaris): Various treatments are available, including topical acids, cryotherapy, or minor surgical removal.
• Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis): Treatment options include topical medications, oral antifungals, or laser therapy.
• Corns (Heloma Durum/Molle) and Calluses (Tyloma): Corns are typically smaller and deeper with a hard core; calluses are more diffuse.

Diabetic Foot Complications

Dr. Garner addresses serious foot problems that can arise in individuals with diabetes due to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation (peripheral arterial disease).

• Diabetic Neuropathy Affecting Feet: Management focuses on blood sugar control and protective foot care.
• Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Require specialized wound care, offloading, infection control, and management of underlying diabetes.
• Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) in Lower Limbs: Narrowing or blockage of arteries supplying blood to the legs and feet, common in diabetes.

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

• Sports Podiatry and Injury Management: Guidance on appropriate athletic footwear and rehabilitation exercises.
• Surgical Correction of Bunions (Hallux Valgus): Various surgical techniques are chosen based on the severity and type of deformity.
• Treatment of Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Spurs): Diagnosis and management of common causes of heel pain, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
• Plantar Wart (Verruca Plantaris) Treatment: Various treatment modalities for painful plantar warts, including cryotherapy (freezing), topical caustics (e.g., salicylic acid), or minor surgical excision/curettage.
• Fungal Nail Infection (Onychomycosis) Treatment: Guidance on preventing recurrence.
• 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.

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

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. Garner practices at a specialized podiatry clinic located in Victoria’s James Bay neighborhood, near Beacon Hill Park. The clinic is conveniently situated close to the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre (Arena), making it easily accessible for patients. It is well-connected via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), with multiple bus routes servicing the area. The clinic is designed for easy access and patient comfort, featuring accessible entrances and on-site or nearby street parking, generally available for patients seeking comprehensive foot and ankle care in a professional and welcoming environment.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Garner?

Generally, direct access to a Podiatrist like Dr. Garner is common in Canada for services that are not covered by the provincial health plan (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP)). If you have extended health benefits, they might require a referral for coverage. For provincially insured services where applicable (varies greatly by province for podiatry), a referral might be necessary. Contact Dr. Garner's clinic for specific guidance. The clinic's fax number for referrals, if required by your insurance, is typically (250) 382-5144.

Does Dr. Garner prescribe and provide custom foot orthotics?

Yes, Podiatrists like Dr. Garner 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.

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

As a Podiatrist, Dr. Garner 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.

What does a Podiatrist like Dr. Garner specialize in?

Dr. Garner 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.

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

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

a specialized podiatry clinic in Victoria
1120 Yates Street, Suite #503
Victoria, BC V8V 3M9

Office Phone: (250) 388-4477 | Office Fax: (250) 382-5144

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

Verify Dr. Garner's registration with the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/373707/Garner%2CThomas