FAQs

What does a podiatrist treat?

A podiatrist diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. At Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA, our doctors treat heel pain, plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, toenail fungus, plantar warts, tendonitis, fractures, neuropathy, diabetic foot wounds, and sports injuries, and provide both surgical and non-surgical care.

Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist at Landmark Foot & Ankle Center?

Many patients can schedule directly without a referral. Some insurance plans, particularly HMO plans, require a referral from your primary care provider, so we recommend checking with your insurance company before your visit.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. Landmark Foot & Ankle Center accepts most insurance plans. You are responsible for co-payments and any charges your plan does not cover. Call or text (703) 370-2313 with billing or insurance questions.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can book through our online scheduling system, send us a text, or call (703) 370-2313. New and established patients are welcome.

What are your office hours?

Our Alexandria office is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm and Friday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. We are closed Saturday and Sunday.

Where is your office located?

We are located at 5249 Duke Street, Suite 212, Alexandria, VA 22304, convenient to patients from Arlington, Falls Church, Annandale, Springfield, Fairfax, and the greater Northern Virginia area.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring your photo ID, insurance card, a list of current medications, any relevant imaging or records, and the shoes you wear most often. Completing your new patient paperwork ahead of time helps your visit run smoothly.

Who are the doctors at Landmark Foot & Ankle Center?

Our practice is led by Dr. Philip P. Garrett, DPM, FACFAS, who is board certified in foot and ankle surgery and wound management, and Dr. Victoria Nolte, DPM, MS, AACFAS, a fellowship-trained podiatric surgeon with advanced training in reconstructive surgery, limb salvage, and peripheral nerve surgery.

Do you perform foot and ankle surgery?

Yes. Our doctors perform both minimally invasive and traditional foot and ankle surgery, including bunion correction, hammertoe repair, and fracture care. They hold surgical and admitting privileges at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Inova Alexandria Hospital, and Inova Fairfax Hospital.

What is minimally invasive foot surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery uses very small incisions instead of one large incision. It typically means less tissue disruption, less swelling and scarring, and a quicker return to normal activity compared with traditional open surgery.

When should I see a podiatrist for heel pain?

You should schedule a visit if heel pain lasts more than a week or two, is worst with your first steps in the morning, or makes you change how you walk or exercise. Early treatment usually leads to faster relief.

Do you offer treatment for toenail fungus?

Yes. We offer the Lunula Laser, an FDA-cleared, non-thermal laser treatment for toenail fungus that is painless, requires no downtime, and does not require oral antifungal medication.

Do you make custom orthotics?

Yes. We use a digital 3D foot scanner to capture detailed measurements, and your custom orthotics are fabricated from your doctor’s prescription. We also carry high-quality over-the-counter orthotic insoles in the office.

Why is foot care important if I have diabetes?

Diabetes can reduce circulation and cause nerve damage, making it harder to feel and heal small injuries on your feet. Regular podiatry exams, routine nail care, and prompt wound care help prevent ulcers, infections, and amputation.

Do you treat sports injuries?

Yes. We treat ankle sprains, stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and other foot and ankle injuries for athletes and active people of all ages and skill levels.

What is shockwave therapy (ESWT)?

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy uses controlled acoustic energy pulses to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. It is a non-surgical option for chronic heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and other stubborn soft tissue conditions.

Do you offer regenerative treatments?

Yes. We offer Nano PRP Jelly, a Wharton’s Jelly-based alternative to traditional PRP injections, and Liposana Fatpad Restoration for patients with fat pad loss. Both are cash-pay treatments.

Do you treat children?

Yes. Our podiatrists provide care for patients of all ages, including children with ingrown toenails, plantar warts, flat feet, heel pain, and sports-related injuries.