About University Foot and Ankle Institute of Los Angeles

Updated 5/1/2024
UFAI's co-directors discuss what makes their care and outcomes different than other treatment centers.

We don’t believe anyone should suffer from foot or ankle pain

The foot and ankle specialists at University Foot & Ankle Institute (UFAI) recognize the importance of strong, healthy feet and ankles and are proud to deliver state-of-the-art comprehensive care to our patients in Los Angeles County and beyond.

 

Our board-certified podiatrists are trained in the latest foot care techniques and technologies — including minimally invasive procedures that can get you back on your feet without surgery.

 

While our physicians are internationally recognized for their surgical expertise, we avoid surgery whenever possible. We believe it's important to start with conservative treatments and use surgery as a last resort. 

University Foot & Ankle Institute of Los Angeles: always forward thinking

Dr. Baravarian gives a tour of UFAI's Santa Monica Clinic.

Foot and ankle pain isn’t normal and ignoring it can lead to more serious foot issues such as chronic pain or permanent damage to the bones, tendons, or ligaments.

 

There is so much innovation in podiatric medicine today, and we are right here at the forefront. With decades of combined experience and the highest success rates in the nation, we have effectively treated over 300,000 patients.

 

UFAI is well known as one of the most technologically advanced foot and ankle practices in the nation. While other practices say they know about "the latest and greatest," UFAI’s foot specialists have been researching, running clinical trials, and performing these techniques for decades. 

 

The podiatrists at UFAI are at the forefront of treatment options for foot and ankle conditions such as:

 

 

Cutting-edge podiatric treatment 

Because of their many combined decades of experience, UFAI’s clinics are often selected to receive access to cutting-edge technologies — sometimes years before other podiatry clinics. These include regenerative medicines, metal-free surgery, and Bunionplasty® minimally invasive bunion surgery to name a few.

 

A good relationship with your doctor is important to your health 

Research has shown that patients who have good relationships and effective communication with their physicians are more satisfied with their care and better able to manage their medical problems.

 

We know our patients are their own best advocates, so clear communication is critically important. Our doctors use plain, non-medical language. They listen and invite patient participation.

 

On-site high-tech medical imaging 

For our patients' convenience, we have digital X-ray, MRI, CT-scan, and ultrasound equipment at many of our podiatry clinics. So if we need imaging to properly diagnose your problem, we can often do it on-site — no need to run around to different imaging clinics.

 

Our on-site podiatric physical therapy clinics allow for constant communication between our physicians and physical therapists. Your entire care team is involved in your recovery and wellness plan.

 

Our patients benefit from our experience 

Our physicians are sought after to participate in leading-edge research throughout North America and Europe. This experience, combined with UFAI's personalized approach to care, will help you and your doctor select your best treatment plan. 

 

We take great pride in furthering the quality of foot and ankle care for everyone. Our doctors have trained more Southern California podiatrists on the latest procedures and modalities than anyone else. Many of our podiatrists have also served as assistant clinical professors at the UCLA School of Medicine, sharing their knowledge with the next generation of foot and ankle specialists.

 

We’ve published hundreds of articles and case studies in many scientific and surgical journals. We also regularly lecture worldwide on the latest techniques. As a teaching institution, other doctors regularly visit our offices or enroll in our fellowship program to learn from our experts. 

 

UFAI also ends up on the receiving end of multiple awards a year. Our doctors are frequently named among the Best Doctors in Los Angeles by Los Angeles Magazine and our clinic has repeatedly been named one of (if not the) Best Foot and Ankle Surgeons in California.

 

Choose University Foot and Ankle Institute for the top podiatrists in Los Angeles

Dr. Bob Baravarian, DPM, and his expert team of healthcare providers are experts in all areas of podiatric care. From sprains and ingrown toenails to physical therapy and sports medicine, to even wound care, someone on the team can address your foot and ankle problem.

 

Above all, our top priority is to get our patients back to their normal activities with the highest level of function, in the least amount of time, using the least invasive treatments possible.

 

We are happy to accept new patients. To schedule a consultation with some of the best foot doctors in Los Angeles please call (877) 736-6001 or make an appointment online now.

 

University Foot and Ankle Institute is conveniently located throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area. Our foot and ankle clinics are located in or near Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, West Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, the San Fernando Valley, El Segundo, the South Bay, LAX, Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Westlake Village, Valencia, Santa Clarita, and Santa Barbara.

19,492 Total 1st Party Reviews / 4.9 out of 5 Stars
  • Google
    I thank Dr Briskin and everybody at UFAI for diagnosing my foot pain and creating a perfect pair of orthotics!!! My right foot...
    Monica S.
  • GatherUp
    Dr Briskin is great, he's patient, explains , answers questions and is personable. Staff is nice.
    Laurie P.
  • Yelp
    I had bad bunions on both feet, and could never wear normal, cute shoes without pain. My feet were always Fred Flintstone feet,...
    Lyn C.
  • GatherUp
    Great experience. Great communication. Great direction for my care. Very happy I chose to go with this particular doctor and o...
    Christopher R.
  • Yelp
    My wife and I went to play tennis  on a Wednesday morning and, within 10 minutes, I experienced the most excruciating pain in m...
    Duane D.
  • GatherUp
    Great service and care. Highly recommend Dr. Franson.
    David B.
  • GatherUp
    If you have to go see a Doctor than this is a great experience.
    Frank M.
  • GatherUp
    My doctor was great. Really great
    Rudolph B.
  • GatherUp
    Good.
    David E.
  • GatherUp
    Your Santa Barbara office and Dr. Johnson always give me excellent care!
    Jayne A.
  • GatherUp
    Dr. Gina Nalbadian was amazing!! I came in with an emergency foot situation and she had wonderful bedside manner and resolved m...
    Danielle C.
  • GatherUp
    I was frustrated that after 3 weeks I still hadn’t heard back about my PT referral status. And I did sit in a room for over 30 ...
    Sarah C.
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