Why does my heel hurt most in the morning when I first get up?

That sharp pain with your first step is the classic sign of plantar fasciitis — inflammation of the band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot. It hurts most after rest because the tissue tightens overnight. At Prairie Foot & Ankle, we treat this with stretching programs, custom orthotics, injections, and in rare cases, minimally invasive surgery. Early treatment prevents it from becoming chronic.

How often should a diabetic person have their feet checked by a podiatrist?

At minimum once a year, but if you have neuropathy, circulation problems, or a history of foot ulcers, every 1 to 3 months is recommended. Diabetes can reduce sensation in your feet, meaning wounds or infections can develop without pain. Dr. Blackburn provides diabetic risk assessments, diabetic shoe fittings (often covered by insurance), and full wound care — all in one office.

Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?

In most cases, no referral is needed. Prairie Foot & Ankle accepts Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Aetna, Medica, CHI/Uninet, and workers' compensation. Call (308) 223-3171 to verify your coverage. Spanish interpreters are available on request.

What insurance do you accept and what does a visit cost?

We accept Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Aetna, Medica, CHI/Uninet, and workers' compensation. Visit costs vary by appointment type and insurance. Call (308) 223-3171 before your visit so our team can verify your benefits — no surprises.

How can I contact Prairie Foot & Ankle?

Phone: (308) 223-3171. Fax: (308) 646-0317. Text: (308) 223-5571. Email: podiatry@prairiefoot.com. Online portal: https://prairiefoot.ema.md/.

What foot and ankle conditions do you treat?

We treat plantar fasciitis, heel pain, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, sports injuries, ankle sprains, diabetic foot ulcers, wounds, skin and nail conditions, vascular problems, and foot deformities. We also offer custom orthotics, diagnostic exams, and preventive foot care.

Where are your clinic locations in Nebraska?

We have six locations across central Nebraska: Grand Island main office at 3016 West Faidley Ave (308-223-3171), Grand Island Regional Medical Wound Center at 3563 Prairieview St (308-675-4732), Mary Lanning Wound Center in Hastings at 715 N Kansas Ave Suite 302 (402-460-5516), Brodstone Memorial in Superior at 520 E 10th Street (402-207-1540), Howard County Medical in St. Paul at 1113 Sherman St (308-223-3171), and Jennie Melham Specialty Clinic in Broken Bow at 145 Memorial Drive (308-223-3171).

Do you offer wound care services?

Yes. We offer comprehensive wound care including diabetic foot ulcers, chronic non-healing wounds, and complex wound management at dedicated wound care centers in Grand Island and Hastings, Nebraska.