Dr. Bridget Kuhn
Podiatrists and Podiatric Surgeons
Where did you receive your education/training?
I received my undergraduate degree in Chemistry from DePauw University in Indiana and my medical degree from Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine. I completed two residencies: one at the VA in Newington, Connecticut, and one at Tripler Army Medical Center here in Hawaii.
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How long have you been practicing?
I have been in private practice in Hawaii since 1996. We have offices in Liliha and Waipahu. The company plans to open an office in Aiea in March.
What services does your podiatry clinic offer?
Podiatry has evolved over the years. I follow American Diabetes Association (ADA) and American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines and collaborate with a cardiologist, cardiac surgeon and another podiatrist at the Diabetes & Vein Center. My office offers a variety of services including varicose vein testing and vein treatment, diabetic foot evaluation, cardiovascular testing, in-house orthotic lab, compression stocking therapy and supplies, and medical-grade support stockings for travel.
Orthotics Lab: It is estimated that 70% of the population suffers from a condition called overpronation, which is caused by flat feet or collapsed arches. Overpronation can lead to serious foot problems such as heel pain, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, and even knee pain and lower back pain in some cases. Custom-fabricated orthotics can help correct overpronation problems and reduce or eliminate many common aches and pains. In my in-office lab, these instruments are available to everyone at affordable prices.
Circulation test: Many people have foot or leg pain and think it’s due to age or work, but it’s actually a circulation problem. In my office, we have an easy and painless method to determine circulation problems.
Compression Stocking Therapy: Varicose veins can be treated conservatively and/or with simple in-office procedures. Circulatory problems (especially in diabetics) often go undiagnosed and untreated. Symptoms may include leg pain, heaviness, pain and cramps in the legs.
In my office, I see a lot of patients with diabetes. Diabetes is defined by its association with microvascular complications. I work closely with diagnostic laboratory technicians, cardiologists, cardiac specialists, patients’ primary care physicians, and physical therapists, and partner with podiatrists to provide the best overall care. The goal of my office is to help diagnose and prevent problems, rather than treating them after they occur.
What are the main foot problems you see most often in Hawaii?
It’s important to know that many foot and leg pains can be caused by other problems, such as circulation problems. The ADA and AHA said heart problems are closely related to foot and leg problems. This is why I focus on thorough examinations to rule out problems so that treatment is most effective. Hawaii is home to many foot-related problems that everyone is familiar with, including toenail fungus, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, corns, calluses, and extremely dry skin. All of these can be treated in the office, and education is key to preventing or minimizing symptoms.
What field do you specialize in?
Diabetic foot care, varicose vein and circulation testing, and affordable custom orthotics. Effective podiatric foot care products are available at our office.
In accordance with ADA recommendations, we collaborate with a variety of specialties to provide a comprehensive treatment and diagnostic plan, focusing on caring for the whole patient, not just the foot. The feet and legs can be a window into other issues that need to be addressed. The goal is to prevent problems and address problems that are currently occurring.
you Hawaii 5-0What role did you play?
For the past few years I’ve been playing the role of a doctor Hawaii Five-O, I have a few other roles. My other interests include animal protection and the Humane Society.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention?
If you have foot or leg pain, it is very important to get examined to diagnose early and address conditions that can be treated conservatively. Podiatry has not only saved feet, it has saved lives.