University Foot & Ankle Institute

The University Foot and Ankle Institute is internationally-recognized and a leading organization for the treatment of foot and ankle problems. Our team of foot and ankle specialists comprehensively treats all foot and ankle problems from simple tendonitis conditions, bunions, heel pain, ankle sprains and fractures to the most complex reconstructive surgery and limb salvage of the foot and ankle. Our doctors are internationally- recognized for their outstanding leadership and expertise in foot and ankle surgery. We pride ourselves on cutting-edge technology and surgical experience provided in a friendly environment.

Your initial visit at University Foot & Ankle Institute will consist of a full and detailed clinical evaluation of your condition. A detailed description of your symptoms combined with a thorough hands-on examination by the doctor will help us identify your specific diagnosis. Our exam often includes a gait analysis and an evaluation of the entire lower extremity. We have found that by looking past the focused area of symptoms, we are able to identify additional contributing factors that need to be addressed in order to more comprehensively achieve a full recovery and return to full function. Specific diagnostic testing is often used as part of a thorough evaluation, including the potential use of x-rays, ultrasound, M.R.I, or nerve testing, all available at our Institute.

The University Foot & Ankle Institute specializes in both conservative and surgical treatments for conditions of the lower extremity. Many conditions that we see on a regular basis respond very well to conservative treatments, including lower extremity-specialized physical therapy, bracing, cast immobilization, orthotics, and injection therapy. If your condition requires surgical intervention, the surgeons at the University Foot and Ankle Institute are dedicated to providing the latest techniques to achieve a rapid recovery and an optimal long-term result. Many of the surgical procedures performed across the country for bunions, heel pain syndrome, tendon injuries, ankle instability, and nerve pain have been improved upon or developed and introduced by our team.

The doctors at the University Foot & Ankle Institute have produced a constant stream of publications and research on a wide array of topics involving the foot and ankle. In summary, the University Foot and Ankle Institute offers comprehensive, up-to-date, and specialized care of the foot and ankle. Our goal is to treat you like family, and provide a complete and expedient return to full function and activity.

University Foot & Ankle Institute
2121 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA, 90403


Jonathan Weaver MDInternal Medicine
Dr. Jamie Elson-Wolin MDFamily Medicine
Graham Waring MD
Allison Leong MDObstetrics & Gynecology
Mark Biscow MDInternal Medicine
Mr. Gary Briskin DPMPodiatrist
Stephen Schwartz DPMPodiatrist
Sydney Yau DPMPodiatrist: Foot & Ankle Surgery
Dr. Doron Nazarian DPMPodiatrist
Ernest Prudente MDInternal Medicine
Joel Isackson MDInternal Medicine
Robert Cole MDSurgery
Mr. Babak Baravarian DPMPodiatrist
Marki Knox MDObstetrics & Gynecology
Javid Ghandehari MDPain Medicine: Pain Medicine,Surgery,Anesthesiology
Rita Perrella MDRadiology: Diagnostic Radiology
Ryan CarterPodiatrist
Elizabeth Baron Cole RDN, CHFSDietitian, Registered
Mrs. Maria Diaz RNC, NPNurse Practitioner: Women's Health
Charles Mcelroy MD
Valerie Magill NPCNurse Practitioner
Dr. Avanti Redkar DPMPodiatrist: Foot & Ankle Surgery
Samantha Shira MDFamily Medicine,Family Medicine
Ms. Jacqueline Snow MN, CNPNurse Practitioner: Women's Health,Nurse Practitioner: Women's Health
Karen Blanchard MDObstetrics & Gynecology
Jochen Schaefer MDPathology: Dermatopathology,Pathology: Dermatopathology
Gina Nalbandian DPMPodiatrist: Foot & Ankle Surgery
Arin Szuch FNPNurse Practitioner,Nurse Practitioner
Mr. Carl Evan Birondo NP-CNurse Practitioner: Family
Shilpa Sharma DPMPodiatrist
Dr. Hoda Naei DPMPodiatrist,Podiatrist
Elizabeth GyamfiNurse Practitioner,Registered Nurse
Misbah AkbarNurse Practitioner: Family
Dr. Anna-Maria Burachek DPMPodiatrist: Foot & Ankle Surgery
Gi Ryoung Kwon DPMPodiatrist: Foot & Ankle Surgery
Harman Singh FNPNurse Practitioner: Family