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Podiatry

Healthy feet and ankles are essential to staying active, independent, and comfortable. At Alertive Healthcare Medical Group, our podiatry services provide comprehensive evaluation, treatment, and ongoing care for a wide range of foot, ankle, nail, wound, and circulation-related concerns.

Whether you are experiencing persistent foot pain, an ingrown toenail, a wound that is not healing properly, or an injury that requires immobilization, our team develops a personalized treatment plan based on your condition, lifestyle, and health needs.

Dr. Kat Gutierrez

Dr. Kat Gutierrez is a board-qualified podiatric physician at Alertive Healthcare Medical Group, providing comprehensive care for foot and ankle conditions. She is committed to helping patients improve mobility, relieve pain, and maintain long-term foot health through personalized, evidence-based treatment.

A native of Guatemala who grew up in Southern California, Dr. Gutierrez earned her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California. During medical school, she was selected as the commencement speaker for her graduating class, recognizing her leadership and dedication to the profession.

She completed her podiatric residency at Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she served as Chief Podiatry Resident, gaining advanced training in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of a wide range of foot and ankle conditions.

Today, Dr. Gutierrez is proud to care for the Southern California community she calls home. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she believes patient education is one of the most important parts of quality healthcare. She takes the time to ensure every patient understands their diagnosis, treatment options, and long-term care plan, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health.

Dr. Gutierrez provides comprehensive podiatric care for patients of all ages, treating everything from common foot pain and injuries to diabetic foot conditions, wound care, nail disorders, and chronic ankle problems. Her goal is to help every patient relieve pain, restore mobility, and return to an active, healthy lifestyle through compassionate, individualized care.

Se habla español.

Dr. Kat Gutierrez

Conditions We Treat

Our podiatry team evaluates and treats concerns affecting the feet, ankles, toenails, skin, circulation, and lower-extremity wounds. Common reasons to schedule a podiatry appointment include:

  • Foot or ankle pain
  • Heel pain
  • Ingrown or painful toenails
  • Foot and ankle injuries
  • Warts
  • Diabetic foot concerns
  • Circulation-related foot problems
  • Lower-extremity wounds
  • Swelling and compression needs
  • Cast care and removal
  • Skin and soft-tissue infections

Podiatry Procedures and Treatments

Cast Placement

Cast placement may be recommended to protect and immobilize the foot or ankle following an injury or while a condition heals. Dr. Gutierrez evaluates the affected area and determines the most appropriate type of support.

Cast Cutting and Removal

When a cast is ready to be removed or adjusted, our team performs cast cutting carefully while examining the condition of the skin and the progress of healing.

Nail Avulsion

A nail avulsion involves removing part or all of a problematic toenail. This procedure may be used to treat painful ingrown toenails, damaged nails, or certain nail infections.

Betadine Dressing

Betadine dressings may be used as part of a wound-care plan to cleanse and protect certain wounds. The type of dressing used depends on the condition of the wound and the patient’s individual needs.

Peripheral Arterial Disease Dressing

Patients with peripheral arterial disease may require specialized wound dressings and close monitoring because reduced circulation can affect healing. Dr. Gutierrez evaluates circulation-related risks and coordinates care when additional vascular treatment is needed.

Triple Antibiotic and Santyl Dressing

Certain wounds may benefit from topical antibiotic care or Santyl dressings. Santyl is used in appropriate cases to help remove damaged tissue and support the wound-healing process.

Unna Boot and Compression Dressing

An Unna boot is a specialized compression dressing that may be used to help manage swelling, venous concerns, and certain lower-leg or foot wounds. Compression treatment is selected based on the patient’s circulation and overall condition.

Wart Removal

Foot warts can become painful, irritated, or difficult to treat without medical care. Dr. Gutierrez offers evaluation and treatment options based on the wart’s size, location, and severity.

Football Dressing

A football dressing is a padded dressing designed to protect the foot, reduce pressure, and support healing after certain procedures or injuries.

    Diabetic and Preventive Foot Care

    People living with diabetes may be at increased risk for numbness, circulation problems, infections, and wounds that heal slowly. Routine podiatry visits can help identify concerns before they become more serious.

    During a diabetic foot evaluation, Dr. Gutierrez may assess:

    • Skin and toenail health
    • Circulation
    • Sensation and possible neuropathy
    • Pressure points
    • Wounds, sores, or signs of infection
    • Footwear and preventive care needs

    Patients should seek prompt medical attention for any new wound, discoloration, drainage, swelling, or sudden change in the foot.

    Bilingual, Patient-Centered Care

    Dr. Gutierrez takes time to explain each condition and treatment recommendation in clear, understandable language. Her goal is to help every patient feel informed, comfortable, and involved in their care.

    Atención disponible en inglés y español.

    Schedule a Podiatry Appointment

    Do not ignore persistent foot pain, nail problems, swelling, wounds, or changes in the appearance of your feet. Early evaluation can help prevent complications and support a safer return to daily activity.

    Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kat Gutierrez at Alertive Healthcare Medical Group in Riverside today.

    New patients are welcome.