DeLand Foot and Leg Center

09/08/2025

The Countdown is On!

In just 7 days, we’ll kick off our special Sock Drop-Off event during Walk with a Doc at Oakdale Cemetery in DeLand on Monday, Sept. 15!

And the giving doesn’t stop there — our Socks for Soles September drive continues all month long. Bring in new or gently used socks (sealed in a Ziploc baggie) to DeLand Foot and Leg Center, 844 N. Stone St. #208, DeLand, through Sept. 30.

Did you know? Socks are one of the most requested yet least donated items at homeless shelters. That’s why this September, we’re stepping up to support The Neighborhood Center of West Volusia because something as simple as a pair of socks can make a big difference.

Learn more about Walk with a Doc here:
👉 https://www.delandpodiatry.com/walk-with-a-doc/

The Florida Podiatric Medical Association (FPMA) American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)

09/03/2025

Popular Shoes, Common Problems

Crocs and Hey Dudes are everywhere—and it’s easy to see why. They’re soft, lightweight, and super easy to slip on. But did you know they can actually cause foot problems?

Little Support: Without proper arch or heel support, your feet can get sore, and issues like plantar fasciitis or heel pain can develop.

Loose Fit: Easy slip-ons can make your feet slide around, increasing the risk of trips, ankle twists, or stubbed toes.

Thin Soles: Minimal cushioning means your feet take on more impact, which can affect knees and hips too.

Scenario: You wear your Crocs for a full day of errands. By the afternoon, your arches are aching and your knees feel fatigued. That comfy shoe might actually be contributing to the problem.

Even popular shoes have their downsides. Sometimes, what feels comfortable in the short term isn’t great for your feet in the long run!

08/27/2025

Did you know? Not all foot support is created equal!

A lot of people reach for over-the-counter inserts at the drugstore when their feet start hurting. The problem? Those inserts are “one-size-fits-all.” They don’t actually match the shape of your foot, don’t adapt to your specific movement patterns, and most importantly, come with no follow-up care.

At DeLand Foot and Leg Center, Dr. Jenneffer Pulapaka uses new innovations like 3D scanning and custom-printed orthotics that are made just for you. Unlike store-bought inserts, these are designed to address the root cause of pain and improve how you walk, stand, and move.

And here’s the real difference: Dr. Pulapaka checks in with you, making sure your orthotics (and your feet!) continue to work in harmony over time. Because foot care isn’t a one-time fix, it’s an ongoing journey. Better technology + personalized care = healthier, happier steps!
Florida Podiatric Medical Association (FPMA) American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)

08/24/2025

Step Up, Share a Pair! Join DeLand Foot & Leg Center for our "Socks for Soles" drive to help the community protect their feet. As medical professionals, we know how critical foot care is, and we're on a mission to make a difference right here in DeLand.
🎯 Goal
Collect new or gently used socks (in Ziploc baggies) throughout September to benefit the Neighborhood Center in DeLand.

📅 Timeline
September 1 - Kickoff
September 1–30 – Sock Collection at our office, 9-4, M-F
September 15 – Special collection during Walk with a Doc, 430pm
September 30 - Last Chance to Donate

Your help can make a huge difference, one pair of socks at a time. Thank you for stepping up to share a pair!

Visit our website for more details: www.DeLandPodiatry.com
844 N Stone St., #208, DeLand FL 32720
386-738-3733

Florida Podiatric Medical Association (FPMA)

08/22/2025

Foot Focus Friday: Community Care in Action

This week, we celebrate a powerful story of resilience. A patient experiencing homelessness, on community medical assistance through the West Volusia Hospital Authority, was referred to Dr. Jenneffer Pulapaka after declining a recommended 5th ray amputation. With determination, he has committed to his foot health—keeping wounds clean, dry, and dressed, following instructions, and never missing an appointment.

Stories like his remind us that with community support and dedicated care, we can save both feet and lives.

American College of Lifestyle Medicine Florida Podiatric Medical Association (FPMA) American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Association for the Advancement of Wound Care (AAWC)

08/21/2025

Footprints Through Time

Every step we take connects us to the past, grounds us in the present, and carries us toward the future. At DeLand Foot and Leg Center, we’re not just focused on healing feet—we’re inspired by the journeys they’ve walked. Some feet have marched proudly in service, others have danced joyfully at celebrations, and many have climbed challenges one step at a time.

Today, take a moment to honor the story your own feet tell. Where have they carried you—and where will they take you next? Share your “footprint story” in the comments—we’d love to hear how your steps have shaped your journey.

08/18/2025

It’s Walk with a Doc Day!

Join us today, Monday, August 18th for our monthly Walk with a Doc event!
Registration begins at 4:45 PM, and the walk is from 5:00 – 5:30 PM at the historic Oakdale cemetery in DeLand.

This month, we’re celebrating Back-to-School by highlighting the lives of Professors, Coaches, and School Teachers who helped shape our community’s history.

Choose your pace:
- Fast-paced walkers
- Moderate walkers
- Slow-paced group (including those with assistive devices)

This event is FREE and open to everyone – bring a friend, family member, or neighbor and enjoy movement, history, and connection.

👉 Learn more here: https://www.delandpodiatry.com/walk-with-a-doc/

08/15/2025

Foot Focus Friday: Skin Tear Safety

This week, one of our patients came in after bumping their leg. What looked like a minor bruise ended up as a skin tear — a reminder of how easily these injuries can happen and how important proper care is.

If you ever get a skin tear, try to keep the skin intact, cover it with a clean, dry dressing, and give us a call. Dry wounds can take longer to heal, so keeping the area in a moist environment helps your body recover faster and healthier. Protect your skin, act quickly, and let us guide you through the best healing process.

08/14/2025

Plant Power & Cancer Prevention?

A groundbreaking study following nearly 80,000 people for almost 8 years has found that those who avoid meat may have a significantly lower risk of developing certain cancers. The research — one of the most detailed looks at vegetarian diets to date — showed that vegetarians overall had a 12% lower cancer risk compared to meat eaters, with even greater reductions for some cancers.

Vegan participants saw the largest benefit, with a 24% lower risk. Pesco-vegetarians, lacto-ovo vegetarians, and other plant-focused eaters also showed protective effects in different cancer types. Researchers note that while diet isn’t the only factor in cancer prevention, the results add to the growing evidence that more plants and fewer animal products can be part of a powerful prevention strategy.

Eating for your health might just mean eating more from the garden and less from the grill.

08/13/2025

Medicare Advantage Pullback Is Here – What You Need to Know

Big changes are coming in 2026.

Major insurers like UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and Cigna are scaling back their Medicare Advantage plans. That means fewer options, reduced benefits, and higher out-of-pocket costs for many seniors.

UnitedHealthcare is dropping plans that currently serve 600,000+ members.
Humana is projecting a 550,000-member drop in 2025.
Many plans will trim dental, vision, gym memberships, and raise specialist co-pays.

What You Can Do:
- Watch your mail – your plan may change or be terminated.
- Check with your doctors to confirm they’re still in-network for 2026.
- Explore alternatives during Medicare Open Enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7).

Call the Medicare Rights Center for free help: 800-333-4114 This isn’t a full exit — but the safety net is shrinking. Be informed. Stay ahead.

08/11/2025

Medical MythBusters Monday

MYTH: Vascular studies do not need to be repeated.
REALITY: They absolutely do! Regular follow-ups, including Arterial Dopplers and Vascular Studies, are vital for monitoring lower extremity health—especially when paired with proper exercise and nutrition.

P.S. If you’re looking for a great way to stay active, Dr. Pulapaka will be at our next Walk with a Doc on Monday, August 18.

Vascular disease in the legs and feet requires maintenance. Is your doctor checking? Do you have a care plan to regain your health? #...