What does a podiatrist treat?

A podiatrist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower legs. At New Canaan Podiatry, Dr. Jennifer Tauber, DPM, treats a wide range of conditions including heel pain, plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, nail fungus, diabetic foot care, peripheral neuropathy, sports injuries, tendonitis, plantar warts, and much more.

Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?

In most cases, no referral is needed to schedule an appointment at New Canaan Podiatry. However, some insurance plans require a specialist referral. We recommend checking with your insurance provider before your visit to avoid any surprises.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring your insurance card, a valid photo ID, a list of current medications and supplements, and any relevant medical records or imaging related to your foot or ankle concern. It is also helpful to bring the shoes you wear most often so Dr. Tauber can assess their fit and support.

Does New Canaan Podiatry treat patients of all ages?

Yes. We welcome patients of all ages, from children with developing foot conditions such as flat feet and plantar warts to seniors managing chronic conditions like diabetic foot disease or arthritis. Dr. Tauber tailors her approach to each patient’s age, health status, and individual needs.

What insurance plans does New Canaan Podiatry accept?

We accept most major insurance plans including PPO and indemnity plans. Please visit our Insurance page or call (203) 548-7688 for specific coverage information prior to scheduling.

How do I know if I need custom orthotics?

You may benefit from custom orthotics if you experience chronic foot, ankle, or lower leg pain; if you have been diagnosed with flat feet, high arches, or a biomechanical irregularity; or if conservative treatments such as stretching and over-the-counter insoles have not provided adequate relief. Dr. Tauber will evaluate your gait and foot structure and recommend orthotics only when they are clinically appropriate.

What is the difference between custom orthotics and store-bought insoles?

Store-bought insoles are mass-produced to fit an average foot shape and provide general cushioning. Custom orthotics are precisely fabricated from a mold or digital scan of your individual foot, providing exact support tailored to your unique biomechanics. For patients with specific structural issues or chronic pain conditions, custom orthotics offer significantly greater correction and long-term benefit.

What is MLS Laser Therapy?

MLS Laser Therapy is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses synchronized dual-wavelength laser energy to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and stimulate cellular healing in soft tissues. It is highly effective for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, peripheral neuropathy, and post-surgical recovery. Treatments are quick, painless, and require no downtime.

What is Acoustic Wave Therapy?

Acoustic Wave Therapy uses high-frequency sound waves to stimulate tissue repair, improve circulation, and break down calcified tissue. It is particularly effective for chronic conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis that have not responded sufficiently to other conservative treatments. The therapy is performed in-office and requires no anesthesia or recovery time.

How does diabetes affect the feet?

Diabetes can cause two serious complications that directly affect foot health: peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage that reduces sensation in the feet) and peripheral artery disease (reduced blood flow to the lower extremities). Together, these complications mean that small wounds, blisters, or pressure sores may go unnoticed and fail to heal properly, creating the risk of serious infection, ulceration, and in severe cases, amputation. Regular professional foot exams are essential for all patients with diabetes.

How often should diabetic patients see a podiatrist?

Most patients with diabetes should have a comprehensive foot exam at least once a year. Those with active neuropathy, peripheral artery disease, a history of foot ulcers, or other high-risk factors should be seen more frequently — typically every 1 to 3 months. Dr. Tauber will recommend the appropriate follow-up schedule based on your individual risk profile.

What is plantar fasciitis and how is it treated?

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot — and is the leading cause of heel pain in adults. Treatment may include stretching, custom orthotics, night splints, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, MLS laser therapy, acoustic wave therapy, and in rare cases, surgery. Most patients achieve significant relief with conservative treatment within 6 to 12 weeks.

What causes nail fungus and how is it treated?

Nail fungus is caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds that penetrate the nail and nail bed, causing the nail to thicken, discolor, and become brittle. Treatment options at New Canaan Podiatry include topical and oral antifungal medications, the Clearanail® controlled micro-penetration system, and laser-based fungal treatments. Early treatment produces the best outcomes.

What is Charcot foot?

Charcot foot is a serious and potentially limb-threatening condition in which the bones of the foot gradually weaken and fracture due to the combined effects of diabetic neuropathy and compromised circulation. Because sensation is reduced, patients often continue walking on the affected foot without realizing fractures are occurring, leading to significant deformity. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment — typically immobilization with a total contact cast — is critical to preventing permanent disability.

Does New Canaan Podiatry offer cosmetic podiatry services?

Yes. In addition to medical podiatric care, New Canaan Podiatry offers several cosmetic foot and leg treatments. These include laser vein removal and spider vein treatment using the Fotona laser system, laser hair removal, and medical pedicure services performed in a sterile, clinically supervised environment.

What is a medical pedicure?

A medical pedicure is a clinical-grade foot care service performed by trained podiatric staff in a medically supervised, sterile setting. Unlike a standard salon pedicure, a medical pedicure addresses nail care, callus removal, skin health, and other foot concerns with medical-grade tools and protocols, making it especially appropriate for patients with diabetes, neuropathy, or compromised immune function.

How can I tell if I have a bunion?

A bunion presents as a bony bump at the base of the big toe, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and tenderness at the joint. The big toe may angle toward the second toe, and shoe fitting may become difficult. Pain may be mild to severe depending on the stage of the deformity. If you notice these signs, scheduling an evaluation with Dr. Tauber is recommended before the deformity progresses.

Can I walk normally with a hammertoe?

In early stages, a hammertoe may cause only minor discomfort and minimally affect walking. As the deformity progresses, it can cause significant pain, corns, calluses, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. Without treatment, hammertoes tend to become more rigid and severe over time. Conservative treatment works best when the deformity is still flexible — another reason early evaluation is important.

How do I schedule an appointment at New Canaan Podiatry?

You can schedule an appointment at New Canaan Podiatry in New Canaan, CT online through our website at any time, or by calling our office directly at (203) 548-7688 during regular business hours. We welcome new patients and are happy to answer any questions before your visit.