Strickler Jonathon DPM in Chattanooga: Foot and Ankle Care with Custom Orthotics

Strickler Jonathon DPM is a solo podiatry practice in Chattanooga focusing on foot and ankle medicine for adults, with particular depth in custom orthotic device fitting and diabetic foot management. The practice operates in a single location, keeps a straightforward appointment schedule, and serves patients without requiring a physician referral.

What the practice handles

Strickler treats the range of conditions a general podiatrist manages: plantar fasciitis, bunions, ingrown toenails, heel pain, and diabetic foot complications. The practice does not perform in-office surgery but manages referrals for procedures requiring a surgical setting. Custom foot orthotics are a core service; these are individually molded inserts designed for specific biomechanical issues rather than off-the-shelf arch supports. The fitting process involves gait analysis and cast molding during the appointment, with devices fabricated off-site and dispensed at a follow-up visit.

Typical visit structure and timeline

A new patient appointment includes a detailed foot and ankle exam, assessment of walking mechanics, and discussion of footwear. If orthotics are indicated, the provider takes a mold or digital scan and discusses material options. Orthotics typically arrive within two to three weeks; the follow-up visit confirms fit and comfort. For acute problems like ingrown toenails or heel pain, the first visit often includes conservative treatment or a care plan. Initial appointments run 30 to 45 minutes. Patients who have not seen a podiatrist before should expect baseline questions about diabetic status, previous foot injuries, and activity level.

Comparison to other Chattanooga podiatrists

Chattanooga has several podiatric options. Strickler operates as a solo practice with direct scheduling; this typically means shorter wait times for routine appointments but less coverage during vacation. Larger multi-provider podiatry groups in the area offer extended hours and same-week urgent appointments, a trade-off for a more structured group setting. If a patient needs surgical intervention, Strickler's referral process connects to outpatient surgical facilities; some competing practices perform minor procedures in-office, which can reduce the number of visits but narrows the range of treatable problems. For patients primarily seeking orthotics without complex surgical needs, solo practices often provide more focused consultation. For those requiring both conservative and surgical management within one system, group practices may streamline care coordination.

Insurance and pricing

The practice accepts Medicare, most commercial insurances, and offers self-pay rates for uninsured patients. Verify your plan's podiatry coverage before the first visit, as some plans require a referral despite the practice not requiring one for scheduling. Custom orthotics are usually covered at 50 to 80 percent under most plans once deductibles are met; out-of-pocket costs after insurance typically range from $200 to $400 per pair depending on materials and the plan's allowance. Office visit copays or coinsurance apply per plan. Uninsured patients should ask about self-pay rates when scheduling.

Who it suits and who it does not

This practice suits adults with chronic foot pain, diabetic foot concerns, or gait-related issues who value direct access and focused orthotic expertise. It is also a good fit for patients without major insurance coverage, since the practice is transparent about self-pay costs. It does not suit patients who need podiatric surgery performed immediately or in-office, patients requiring evening or weekend appointments, or those who prefer a large group with on-site imaging or surgical facilities. Pediatric foot problems are not a stated focus.

Hours and location

Confirm current hours and parking details directly with the practice before your first visit, as clinical hours can shift seasonally. The practice is located in Chattanooga proper; curbside parking is available. No walk-in urgent appointment slots are advertised, so schedule in advance.

Strickler's solo model and orthotic specialization serve Chattanooga patients seeking in-depth biomechanical assessment and custom device fitting without the time commitments or costs of multi-location group practices.