Dr. Justin Franson

A lifelong athlete devoted to foot and ankle care

His idyllic childhood, growing up in New England, hiking the Appalachian Trail, fishing rivers and streams, and eating wild berries all summer long instilled a joy of life that he maintains to this day. It was during this time in Maine that Dr. Franson began a lifelong love of sports, running cross-country and playing basketball. He grew up with enough people to form a basketball team, with eight siblings and his parents. Medicine certainly runs in his family, as half his siblings are involved in various aspects of healthcare.

After studying accounting and then leaning toward physical therapy at Brigham Young University, Dr. Franson decided to pursue podiatry as his career. He then attended the School College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago and supported himself by toiling at a number of part-time jobs until he got his degree. It was during this time he learned how to balance hard work and busy life. When not working or attending school, the future doctor enjoyed "a lot of Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza."

Upon graduation in 2001, Franson accepted a three-year residency program at the Greater Los Angeles VA and UCLA County Hospital. His residency-training program included a lot of time in the hospital, emergency room, clinics, and operating room.

Dr. Franson specializes in several areas including total ankle replacement and sports medicine. Treating athletes and weekend warriors like himself brings him a lot of joy. "I love being able to provide true relief to the physical problems that people come see me about. I am one of those people who truly enjoy the personal interactions with my patients."

His family, complete with four children, keeps him and his wife busy with numerous sports and activities. Dr. Franson, a resident of the Santa Clarita Valley, is also an active member of the community, donating time and resources to a number of local organizations, clubs, and teams.

Like his kids, Dr. Franson is active too, running marathons, triathlons, hiking, basketball, and golf. He says, "These activities continue to give me new and valuable insights into different sports injuries and the mindset of those of us who love to participate in them."

Podiatrist Dr. Franson is available for patient consultations at University Foot and Ankle Institute in Valencia, California. Dr. Franson is a member of the Ossiofiber Center of Excellence as a leader in use of this treatment.