Comprehensive treatment for pain, injuries, and preventive wellness to keep you moving

Trusted Foot and Ankle Care for Every Step

Dr. Douglas C. Smith, DPM, DABPS, FACFAS, CWS
Dr. Patrick J. Dougherty, DPM, DABPS, FACFAS
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improving mobility and quality of life

Dedicated Foot and Ankle Care for Every Patient

With convenient offices in Raleigh and Henderson, NC, Family Foot & Ankle Center provides complete care for every type of foot and ankle concern. Dr. Douglas C. Smith, DPM, and Dr. Patrick J. Dougherty, DPM, combine advanced training with years of experience to deliver trusted podiatric care for patients of all ages.


Our doctors specialize in general podiatry, diabetic foot care, ingrown toenail treatment, and heel pain, while also addressing the full range of conditions that affect the lower extremities. Whether you’re seeking routine care or advanced treatment, our team is committed to helping you move comfortably and stay active.


We are proud to serve patients across the greater Raleigh region, including Cary, Henderson, Garner, Wake Forest, Zebulon, Oxford, Franklinton, Louisburg, and Knightdale. Call today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward healthier feet.

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Take the First Step Toward Healthy Feet

Connect with Family Foot & Ankle Specialists

Your path to pain-free living begins here. Schedule a visit with our experienced podiatrists to explore treatment options designed for your specific needs. Whether you’re seeking relief from discomfort, managing a chronic condition, or looking for preventive care, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to start improving your foot health and regain the comfort and mobility you deserve.

Foot & Ankle Health Insights

Expert tips, news, and resources to keep you moving comfortably.

November 7, 2025
November marks National Diabetes Awareness Month , a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting those affected, and sharing ways to live healthier with diabetes. With diabetes impacting millions of Americans, proactive foot care remains one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of diabetes management.  Why Foot Health Matters Diabetes can affect the feet in several ways, and early prevention is key. High blood sugar levels may lead to: Nerve damage (neuropathy) that causes numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation Reduced blood flow , slowing the healing process Higher risk of infections, wounds, and ulcers , which can become serious if left untreated Healthy, routine foot care can help prevent complications and support mobility, comfort, and long-term wellness. How Our Podiatry Team Supports Diabetic Foot Health We provide comprehensive diabetic foot care to protect, prevent, and treat foot-related concerns, including: Routine Diabetic Foot Exams Early detection and intervention to address concerns before they become more serious. Custom Orthotics Personalized support to improve balance, relieve pressure points, and enhance walking comfort. Advanced Wound Care Specialized treatment plans for wounds, ulcers, or injuries to promote faster healing and reduce risks. Footwear Guidance Recommendations for proper shoes and inserts designed to prevent irritation, friction, and injury. We’re Here to Help You Stay Healthy Caring for your feet is an essential part of staying active, independent, and healthy with diabetes. Whether you have questions about preventive care, footwear, or treatment options, our podiatrists are here to guide and support you every step of the way. This month is a great time to schedule a diabetic foot check or talk with us about ways to keep your feet protected year-round. Together, we can work toward better foot health and a healthier life with diabetes.
October 3, 2025
If you’ve ever felt sudden pain in your big toe after running, jumping, or pushing off during sports, you may have experienced turf toe . This injury happens when the big toe joint bends too far upward, stretching or tearing the soft tissues that support it.  What Are the Symptoms? Turf toe often causes: Pain and swelling at the base of the big toe Stiffness or limited motion Difficulty walking, running, or pushing off the foot Without proper care, turf toe can become a long-term issue that limits your mobility. How Do We Treat Turf Toe? Our podiatrists start with a careful exam and, if needed, X-rays or imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury: Mild sprains: Rest, ice, taping, and stiff-soled shoes Moderate sprains: A walking boot, physical therapy, and gradual return to activity Severe sprains: Longer recovery time and, in rare cases, surgery Get Back on Your Feet Turf toe may sound minor, but it can seriously affect your performance and daily activities if left untreated. The good news? With the right care, most people recover fully and return to the activities they love. Our board-certified podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating turf toe and other sports injuries. If you’re dealing with toe pain, don’t wait— schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward recovery.
Step Into Comfort
By VIV Builder August 13, 2025
Your feet are the foundation of your entire body — when they’re not properly supported, it can lead to pain not just in your feet, but in your ankles, knees, hips, and back, too. That’s where custom orthotics come in!
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