Timothy W. Bush, DPM

Meet Dr. Timothy Bush

Looking for a podiatrist in Nashville you can trust?

Get to know Dr. Bush and why so many of his patients choose him for their foot and ankle needs.

Dr. Timothy Bush, DPM is currently a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association and has been involved with volunteer work for the Special Olympics for several years. He enjoys participating in athletics, as he was a 4-sport athlete in high school and was also a member of the Franklin College baseball team for 3 years. He and his wife, Allyson, reside in the middle Tennessee area where they enjoy running half marathons, golfing, traveling abroad, and living an active and healthy lifestyle.

Are you experiencing foot or ankle pain? Are you curious about the role of a podiatrist in maintaining healthy feet and ankles? If you’re one of the many individuals turning to Google for answers, you’ve come to the right place. As a seasoned podiatrist specializing in foot and ankle surgery, Dr. Bush understands the importance of addressing common concerns and helping patients understand their options.

1. What does a podiatrist do?
   Podiatrists are medical professionals specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet and ankles. We are trained to address a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and more. Our goal is to help patients maintain optimal foot and ankle health, improve mobility, and alleviate pain.
2. When should I see a podiatrist?
   It’s essential to seek podiatric care if you’re experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain, swelling, numbness, tingling, or any other unusual symptoms. Additionally, if you have a pre-existing medical condition such as diabetes or arthritis, regular foot screenings by a podiatrist are crucial for preventing complications. Don’t ignore foot or ankle discomfort; early intervention can prevent further damage and improve outcomes.2.
3. Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
   In many cases, you do not need a referral to see a podiatrist. You can often schedule an appointment directly with a podiatric specialist.
4. What conditions do podiatrists treat?
   Podiatrists treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to bunions, heel pain, ingrown toenails, corns and calluses, plantar fasciitis, fungal toenails, flat feet, and fractures.
5. What can I expect during a podiatry appointment?
   During your initial consultation with a podiatrist, expect a thorough evaluation of your medical history and a comprehensive examination of your feet and ankles. Depending on your symptoms, diagnostic tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans may be ordered to aid in diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is made, your podiatrist will discuss treatment options tailored to your specific needs, which may include conservative measures like physical therapy, orthotics, or medication, as well as surgical intervention if necessary.
6. Are podiatrists qualified to perform surgery?
   Yes, podiatrists are qualified to perform surgical procedures on the foot and ankle. They may perform surgeries for conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and ligament repairs.
7. Are podiatric surgeries safe?
   Podiatric surgeries are generally safe and effective when performed by a qualified and experienced foot and ankle surgeon. Advancements in surgical techniques, anesthesia, and post-operative care have significantly reduced risks and improved outcomes for patients. Your podiatrist will thoroughly explain the surgical procedure, discuss potential risks and benefits, and address any concerns you may have before proceeding with treatment.
8. How can I prevent foot and ankle problems?
   Prevention is key to maintaining healthy feet and ankles. Practice good foot hygiene by keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing properly fitting shoes, and avoiding high heels or narrow-toed shoes for extended periods. Maintain a healthy weight, stay active, and perform regular foot stretches and exercises to improve strength and flexibility. If you have diabetes, carefully monitor your blood sugar levels and attend regular foot screenings to prevent diabetic foot complications.
9. Is foot pain normal as we age?
   While some foot discomfort can occur with age due to wear and tear, chronic or severe foot pain is not considered normal and should be evaluated by a podiatrist.
10. What are orthotics, and how can they help?
    Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts designed to provide support and improve foot alignment. They can help alleviate various foot conditions and promote comfort.
11. Can podiatrists treat sports-related foot injuries?
    Yes, podiatrists specialize in treating sports-related foot and ankle injuries. They can provide diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation for athletes.
12. What is diabetic foot care, and why is it important?
    Diabetic foot care focuses on preventing and treating foot problems that can arise due to diabetes, as diabetes can lead to reduced circulation and nerve damage in the feet.