Santa Monica Podiatry Clinic Patient Testimonials

We survey all our patients to learn how we did and read every response. Usually complimentary, sometimes critical, it's our patients who help us learn what we are doing well and how we can improve.

 

We strive to be the best we can and are grateful for the opportunities we are given to help people heal and get back to doing the things that they love.

5,823 Total 1st Party Reviews
4.9 out of 5 Stars
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Great experience! From the phone consultation to appt scheduling, same day, by the way, to the super friendly and professional staff.  Dr. Bob Baravarian is kind, generous and a professional besides being fully credentialed. You're in good hands there.
    Tina S.
  • Facebook
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    3.0
    Dr. Briskin is great. However, when it comes to any kind of brace or medical device that they are recommending, you should check on Amazon before purchasing.
    Eric H.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Surgeons are in a position of moral hazard. They make more money from surgery than from a low-tech solution. I was impressed that Dr. Baravarian suggested starting with the low-tech solution, leaving the two surgical options to be decided if this doesn't work. He was very pleasant, very professional, clear in his explanations, and answered all my questions. His office  seems very organized and well run, and the staff treated me well. I would have no hesitation in recommending Dr. Baravarian.
    Andy S.
  • Google
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I am an avid runner but had a foot injury that made even walking excruciatingly painful. I went to University Foot and Ankle Institute after being misdiagnosed by another doctor. Everyone in the office is so nice, from office staff to the technicians. And Dr. Baravarian quickly diagnosed me with a bone spur and recommended orthotics. The orthotics have changed my life! Not only am I completely painfree and enjoying running again, i am training for my first marathon! Thank you Dr. Baravarian!
    Christie C.
  • Google
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I really like this group. Professional, great service, great atmosphere and just pleasant to be around. I saw Dr. Baravarian and he did a great job diagnosing my problem and taking care of me. I eventually had surgery with him and then went to physical therapy and the entire experience has been exceptional. I highly recommend this group and Dr. Baravarian. I also want to note that they are very professional with their billing. The accept insurance and only billed me what the insurance allowed which was not much considering the quality of care.
    James O.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr Babak Baravarian is excellent! I had a longstanding ankle injury and was in a lot of discomfort with a torn peroneal tendon. I went to several doctors, but when I read about Dr. Baravarian's experience and some articles he had written regarding this injury, I came to University Foot & Ankle Institute. The staff was great and after meeting him, hearing his expertise and feeling comfortable, I knew he was the right doctor to have perform the surgery. With his help and care, I am now feeling back to my active self after a very successful surgery. I give University Foot & Ankle Institute my highest recommendation. I am so grateful I found Dr. Baravarian to perform my surgery. He is trust-worthy and a true expert in podiatry. You will be in good hands with him as your doctor!
    Colleen M.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    After suffering with a 20 year old ankle injury, I reluctantly agreed to consider PRP treatment. I was very skeptical that I could get significant results. I am ecstatic to report that after receiving two PRP treatments, in less than one year, I have days when I am pain free. The healing continues. I am looking forward to easing back into running. Thank you Dr Briskin and UFAI staff. I would recommend UFAI to anyone with ankle issues. The great outcome from two treatments far exceeded my expectations.
    Teresa C.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    University Foot and Ankle Institute is wonderful. Dr. Briskin is an excellent doctor; knowledge and takes time explaining issues. Listens well. I highly recommend University Foot and Ankle Institute.
    Lisa K.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I have been suffering from some nasty plantar fasciitis for some years now, and after orthotics and doing my own stretching, I was still in agony. Dr. Briskin, (who I call Dr. Chevy Chase, if you meet him you will know), has sent me to PT to see if I can get some relief before we get invasive and pull out the knives.  Now I am doing PT with the good folks there. I have had only 3 session, and already can feel the difference.
    Grey, and the rest of the crew are the sweetest bunch of folks as well. It's such a nice atmosphere, fun music playing, and lively conversations. I recently needed to change my appointment, and was worried that it was exactly 24 hours to the min when I called to change it, I said, " I know it might be too late, it's exactly 24 hours prior, but can I move my appointment?" Ali, or Ollie, (not sure which) said, "Well.... for you, ok".
    That's good costumer service.
    Sa W.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I have been going to the PT department for the last few weeks and the results have been amazing. I have been dealing with insertional Achilles tendinitis for a few years now. Jason and the team really helped me see vast improvement. Using cortisone patches, ultrasound, exercises, etc.. it really seemed to spark healing in my heel.  I am running and feeling pain free throughout the day. Thank you guys.
    Alex M.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr Briskin is amazing. He's been my foot doctor for about 3 years. He truly listens and is so down to earth. We finally figured out my latest issue, which is a muscle on my leg effecting my ankle. He ordered physical therapy and I feel 100% better. He's the best!!!
    Elaina B.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr. Baravarian was great in explaining to me the window of time I have as a 51 year old to increase mobility in my left big toe. And just as important as surgery to remove the bone spurs was the physical therapy after to gain back full mobility. Jason is awesome and truly cares. I had lost the ability to bend my toe up due to bone spurs rubbing on my foot bone. Over a period of 6 months my heel height went down to only 1 1/2 inch high heels. And I was compensating by rolling on the outside of my foot which caused heel pain and plantar fasciitis. Dr. Baravarian explained if I chose to do nothing, over time my bones would have fused together and I would have no mobility. He was very clear and  told me before surgery that he would either shave off the bone spurs seen in the X-ray and cut back some bone depending on how bad it was once he went in. By doing this procedure, I would prevent the bones from fusing together and ultimately be a candidate for an FDA approved gel joint transplant. Luckily for me, he only needed to shave back the bone spurs and didn't need to cut into the bone. Post op physical therapy with Jason was crucial for me to get my full mobility back. After 6 weeks I am now able to walk in 3 to 4 inch heels.
    Pamela F.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I started going to Dr. Briskin over 10  years ago when the practice was much smaller.  He took care of my problem (plantar wort) with such care and competence I was amazed.  Plus he has a great sense of humor. The office was spotless, and the staff was wonderful.  The practice is bigger now and as good as ever. I have been back several times for other small things and he has always been such a pleasure to deal with.  I have sent many people to him over the years and now my entire family goes to him for various things. The office takes medicare, they handle all the paperwork, and has always done a good job with insurance. Everyone there is a pleasure to deal with, exhibits intelligence, attention to detail and genuine concern regarding your issue.  I can't recommend the office enough.
    Carol B.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I was very happy to find Dr. Briskin and the University Foot & Ankle Institute. I had fallen and sprained one ankle and jammed up/possibly broken my big toe on the other foot. Ice, elevation, etc. worked fine and I was up and around in a day or 2, but my ankle stayed swollen and I still had some pain several weeks later. I'd also been dealing with planters fasciitis for awhile, so I figured it was time to find good foot doctor.

    I was able to get an appointment very quickly. The clinic is comfortable, my tech was very knowledgeable and friendly. Dr. Briskin is easy to talk to and very patient (I tend to run on when describing situations/symptoms). He explained why some symptoms might linger after a foot injury as well as conservative management of the plantars.

    I was appreciative that they didn't automatically require an x-ray or diagnostics other than Dr. Briskin's eye and physical evaluation, since I was ambulatory with little pain and really just wanted assurance that I was healing correctly. Same for the plantars...he talked about the possibility of orthotics and other treatments down the road, but wanted to make sure I started with the basics (which are working).

    I hope I don't have more foot injuries, but I'm glad I now know where to go if they happen.
    Lisa S.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Top notch!
    Dr. Gary Briskin is fantastic, and I have received excellent care from him and his staff for many years. I would never think of going anywhere else for my foot care needs.  I trust him and the institute implicitly. Sometimes as a type 1 diabetic I have urgent needs, and his staff is always very understanding and willing to do what's best for me as a patient.  Foot issues are never fun, but I almost look forward to my appointments!  It's a great office, thank you Dr. Briskin and the wonderful staff at University Foot & Ankle Institute.
    Carol C.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Wow
    What a great experience. From the front desk to doctor all in all I was very pleased. Dr. Briskin was very thorough and listened to all my concerns and my entire story about my foot pain. He examed my foot many times to figure out exactly what was going on because the x rays were clean. He asked many questions and was genuinely concerned for my foot pain. He gave me a cortisone shot and a I am returning in a week. This place is very busy. When I left the office was full this was around 2:30. My appointment was at 1:30. I will be recommending this place to anyone who has foot pain or needs great foot care!!
    kristen S.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    4.0
    I'm very active, and need a foot doctor every 2-3 years to remove calluses or fit orthotics.  The past few years I have relied on Dr. Baravarian.  He is personable, available and wastes no time in making his diagnosis and offering treatment alternatives.  Both his office staff and medical assistants are polite, efficient and obviously well trained.  I highly recommend this office.
    Sue M.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr Baravian, is an expert. I went to him for a second opinion which save me from having necessary procedures. Five stars!
    Gordon S.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I had been going to Dr. Gary Briskin for several years for minor foot ailments, chronic ingrown toenails, , bunion problems, custom shoe inserts, ( I'm a cinematographer and on my feet all day ).. Five years ago in Palestine I fell and broke a metatarsal bone in my foot. Fortunately I did not have it set there. When I returned to Santa Monica Dr. Briskin performed very successful surgery. My foot has been perfect normal ever since. He is a skilled surgeon as well as a great person. Always available, perceptive and full of interesting ideas.
    Paul R.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    4.0
    What an awesome group of folks!  Two surgeries in two years and they feel more like family than PT.  Can't say enough good things about the whole team.  If you have to have surgery and PT this is the team to do it with no doubt.
    Cyn S.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr. Bob Baravarian is the only podiatrist in CA who uses platelet-rich plasma injections to cure plantar fasciitis. I had two injections one month apart and the problem is gone! Amazing! Much safer than steroids, they take your own blood, centrifuge it, and use the platelets as an injection. See his article podiatrytoday.com/platel…. Your own blood has wonderful healing stuff in it but the foot's circulation is so poor, the blood doesn't get to the afflicted area.
    Michael S.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    4.0
    This is one business I hope I never need to return to but if I do I hope physical therapists Jason and Ali are still there.

    Both were very helpful and pleasant to work with. They made the experience as relaxing as I can imagine physical therapy ever being and their interest and concern for me and the other patients I observed them treating was sincere. Their suggestions have proven to be helpful and the treatment successful.

    I'd  have given more stars if I'd had any other experiences to compare them to which I hope against all reason will never happen.
    Joel M.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr Baravarian is awesome!  I say this because he's perfectly willing to admit when he doesn't know something and when he cannot help.  Humility, like that, is a rare and highly admirable trait in any doctor (I know that sounds weird, but you can trust a doctor that tells you their limitations instead of bullshitting you and trying things at your wellbeing's expense).
    He gave me some great recommendations on peripheral nerve surgeons to get consultations with.
    He also checked out my surgical sites (from previous orthopedic surgeries last year) and let me know his opinion on them.  I wish I had known about him before!  He and his team were great and even though they couldn't help me there... They gave me a direction to go in next.
    Thank you Dr Baravarian!
    Julie D.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I recommend without reservation the incredible team at University Foot and Ankle and their Physical Therapy department at their Wilshire  Boulevard offices in Santa Monica.  From my first phone call to Irma the receptionist,  I was so impressed with their patience and compassion.  I was never rushed and I had many questions.
    The PT staff itself consisting of Gray, Tammy and Ali are the best.  They know their stuff and devote their full attention to each patient even when the room is filled with patients.  I feel my feet are in the best hands (LOL!) and I cannot imagine a better team of therapists to treat any and all foot disorders.  Five stars at least!  I'd give 10 if that was an option.
    Jeff K.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr. Baravarian and his staff were very helpful and extremely courteous.  Impressive practice
    Holly C.
  • Facebook
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr Baravarian is awesome. The best care. Very upfront. Love him and his stafg.
    Sue B.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Everyone is terrific and helpful at both the Santa Monica and Sherman Oaks offices.  Dr. Bob is especially patient with you and will answer all of your questions with easy to understand termNo surprises.  He actually listens to you!  What a refreshing experience for a doctor.'s visit.
    John F.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I had bad bunions on both feet, and could never wear normal, cute shoes without pain. My feet were always Fred Flintstone feet, and needed lots of support. In my late 20s I did marathons and had lots of foot problems. With age, my feet got worse and were more akin to bear's feet. Bad foot genetics. My grandmother had horrible bunions. As an athletic and competitive person, the bunions and lack of foot support were starting to cause other issues such as knee, hip and low back pain, and thus interfering with all my activities. Making me old before my time! Dr. Baravarian surgically corrected both bunions with a Tailor's Bunionectomy and Osteotomy, on both feet, 3 weeks apart. He also cleaned up the arthritis that was developing. The recovery was easy. Much easier than I could have ever anticipated. NOT recommended but I did do my martial arts class the day after surgery because I felt so good (and without taking the drugs prescribed except Ibuprofen for inflammation). I was careful, but that was stupid. I was swimming as soon as the incisions were clear, and started running a few months after. I could do upper body exercises with the boots on during recovery. Wished I did the surgery long ago had I known it wouldn't be such a big deal. The knee, low back and foot pain went away. Added bonus: feet are normal looking and can wear normal shoes. Several years later, feet corrected but still need support (and I was bad not regularly wearing my orthotics), I developed plantar fasciitis. Currently working w/ physical therapy team and they are fantastic as well. Dr. Baravarian and his whole team are great. All they do is concentrate of foot and ankle issues so you can trust you're in good hands. On that note, a lot of recovery and prevention is up to you, the patient. Stay healthy and continue to do physical therapy strengthening exercises and stretching. Basically, you should commit to the self-care for the rest of your life. The team can fix the structural problems, but it's up to you, the patient to keep yourself healthy and well.
    Lyn C.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr Briskin operated on my toe to correct a hammertoe. He a very professional doctor and personable, as well.   The operation was not painful and was performed as outpatient surgery.  I followed instructions; continued with the recommended P/T for a few weeks following.  The P/T topped off a very successful surgery. The P/T staff at UFAI are fabulous.  Jason and Gray are the therapists who definitely know feet and ankles; staff Ari, Stephanie and  Erma are so caring and assets to the office.  By following instructions and receiving very good care, I am now as good as new!
    Rosemary B.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr Bob and all the staff have been nothing short of wonderful. I highly recommend the clinic.
    Alan B.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr. Baravarian is an excellent physician that truly understands the industry better than anyone else. I have visited other podiatrists that couldn't fix my issue and Dr. Baravarian was able to help me in one session. Nobody else compares.
    Paul R.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I've been coming to Dr. Briskin ever since my son was in elementary school (he's now 29). I don't think there's a better podiatrist on the westside. Dr. Briskin has always been caring, knowledgeable and professional. I recommend him to all my friends and family!
    Tina C.
  • Google
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I was traveling recently and injured my foot. Based on the recommendation of a friend (and after reading all the great reviews), I decided to give University Foot & Ankle Institute a try. Considering the circumstances, the whole ordeal was pretty painless! The wonderful staff at UFAI was able to get me in to see Dr. Baravarain quickly and efficiently, they even took my insurance! After a visit with Dr. Bob, I was pain free and on my way in no time! Thanks UFAI for taking such great care of me!
    Sarah V.
  • Google
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I always receive outstanding care in a efficient, timely manner with no waiting.
    Susan S.
  • CustomerSure
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I was impressed and happy to know I could see the doctor the same day I needed! Very efficient and professional! I've already recommended UFAI to several family and friends for their future reference.
    Ani M.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I always come here and see Dr briskin to get my orthotics he's a wonderful doctor great bedside manner doesn't play any games doesn't try and sell me anything. We get right to the point and we get it done my time is very valuable and I appreciate that Dr briskin appreciates that. I used to go to the other foot doctors to get orthotics and they would have me coming back for like 5 different visit they would tape my foot one week they would do this they would do that they would keep billing my insurance and it would make me so angry. they never do that at this office I recommend this office and dr. Briskin to all my friends and I've been going there for 6 years and I'll continue going there
    Eric A.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    I saw Dr. Jason Morris in the Santa Monica office. I was afraid I was losing my BIG "pretty" toenail and it was hurting like hell. Terrors of terrors! Right in the middle of summer sandal season. Dr. Morris confirmed my fears and gave me a couple of options. In the end, he helped me make the tough choice: the nail had to come off -- it was destined to die and be reborn. His calm, caring demeanor helped me through the "exorcism" of the dead nail that day, and his follow-up was thorough and caring.
    CJ S.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr. Baravarian is great.  He pays attention to what you say and the medical techs are impeccable and nice.  All around a well-run office.  He solved a tricky, painful and somewhat mysterious ankle problem for me three years ago and it hasn't come back but I still go back to him for orthotics.
    Susan C.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Dr. Braxton Little, my podiatrist, was very professional, diagnosed me with plantar's faciitis
    and then made a set of orthotics for me.  After two bouts of the plantar's fasciitis previously, since i got the orthotics I've never had another flare up with it.

    Gray O'Brien, the owner of the physical therapy section and head physical therapist heads an extremely competent team of physical therapists.  They are all efficient and pay close attention to your progress.  They were able to answer the questions i had for both sets of sessions I had, one for therapy for plantar's fasciitis and the other for a sprained ankle.  I have a lot of confidence in the therapists and would definitely go back if needed, as I did before.
    Karen B.
  • Yelp
    University Foot and Ankle Institute
    5.0
    Here's the challenge......find a better doctor's office with the professionalism and caring service that even comes close to Dr. Briskin's team and the entire staff off UNIVERSITY FOOT & ANKLE INSTITUTE. I assure you....next to impossible. I cannot say enough about how well I was treated, diagnosed, and taken care of. THANK-YOU, DR. BRISKIN.
    Stan W.
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