Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs to see a podiatrist?
Anyone diagnosed with diabetes, anyone experiencing foot or ankle pain, and children with flat feet should see a podiatrist. We treat patients of all ages, from infants and children to adults and older patients.
How often should you see a podiatrist?
If you have diabetes, at least once a year. With neuropathy, circulation issues, or a history of ulcers, semi-annually or quarterly. Early, consistent evaluation prevents small problems from becoming serious complications.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We accept most major insurance plans. Please call the number on the back of your insurance card to verify your specific coverage, or view the full list on our Insurance page.
When are you open?
Monday through Thursday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Friday 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM. An answering service is available on weekends and holidays.
Do you treat ankle problems?
Yes. We treat all foot and ankle conditions below the knee, from skin and nail conditions to complex reconstructive surgery.
Do you treat children?
Yes. We provide foot and ankle care for patients of all ages, including infants, children, and adolescents. Dr. Balkaran has served as Medical Director for the Special Olympics for over 15 years and has extensive experience caring for children and adults with special needs.
What can I do for achy feet?
Epsom salt soaks with warm water, gentle stretching of the hamstrings and Achilles tendon, foot massage, and supportive footwear can all help. If pain persists or is limiting your activity, schedule an evaluation so we can identify the actual cause.
What can I do about bunions?
Conservative care first: X-rays to assess the degree of deformity, toe spacers, splints, and wider shoes. If the deformity advances and causes significant pain, minimally invasive bunion correction is an option with significantly faster recovery than traditional open surgery.
Where are you located?
1865 Nightingale Lane, Suite A, Tavares, FL 32778. We serve patients throughout Lake County, Central Florida, and beyond. Virtual second opinions and international consultations are available.
What makes Ankle & Foot Center of Central Florida different?
Dr. Balkaran brings together multiple advanced fellowship specialties under one practice, including minimally invasive surgery, peripheral nerve surgery, regenerative medicine, wound care, and peptide therapy. Her approach is conservative first and root-cause focused, built on a multidisciplinary team model. Every patient is optimized before intervention, and every available treatment option is presented before surgery is considered.
Can I get a second opinion before surgery?
Yes. Dr. Balkaran actively welcomes second opinion consultations. She believes every patient deserves to understand all available treatment options before considering surgery. Bring your imaging and records and we will review everything.
Where would surgery be performed?
Surgery is performed in our office surgical suite or at a hospital setting depending on the procedure and patient needs. Dr. Balkaran holds privileges at AdventHealth and UF Health.
How long is recovery from minimally invasive bunion surgery?
Most patients walk the same day in a surgical shoe. Return to regular shoes typically takes 3 to 6 weeks, significantly shorter than the 6 to 8 week recovery common with traditional open bunion surgery.
Are virtual consultations available?
Yes. Virtual second opinions are available. International consultations are also available. Please call the office to arrange a virtual appointment.
Still Have Questions?
Call us or send a message. Our front desk team is happy to help.