A Granddaughter’s Legacy, A Doctor’s Vision
It all started in a small podiatry clinic in Portsmouth, Ohio, where an 11-year-old girl, eager to learn, stood by her grandfather’s side. She helped him clean toenails and mix custom ointments, absorbing the knowledge that would later fuel her passion for podiatry. Dr. Nicole Freels, the granddaughter of renowned podiatrist Dr. Arthur O. Kelly, didn’t know it then, but that quiet time in her grandfather’s apothecary would set the stage for a career dedicated to innovative footcare. Today, as the founder of Modern Podiatrist, she has created a groundbreaking brand, blending natural ingredients with cutting-edge medical expertise to offer exceptional foot and skincare solutions for people everywhere.
The Birth of Modern Podiatrist: Melding Legacy with Innovation
Dr. Freels’ journey into podiatry wasn’t born from the traditional classroom but from the care and guidance she received from her grandfather, who instilled in her a profound respect for both traditional podiatry methods and the potential for natural remedies. While other young girls might have played with dolls or spent their afternoons at the mall, Dr. Freels found her calling in the quiet rhythms of podiatric medicine. The time spent in her grandfather’s clinic, creating custom ointments and learning the nuances of foot care, sparked a lifelong passion.
She honed her skills and became an expert in her own right, founding Lexington Podiatry in Kentucky, where she became known for her cutting-edge treatments and exceptional patient care. But it was in 2010 that Dr. Freels took her expertise to the next level, launching Modern Podiatrist, a line of premium footcare products inspired by the very legacy that shaped her.
“I wanted to create a product that combines my grandfather’s approach with modern advancements in podiatry,” Dr. Freels explains. “When you have a passion for something, it drives you to innovate and do more than what’s expected.”
From Humble Beginnings to Global Recognition
What began as a collection of custom-designed products for her patients evolved into something much greater. Today, Modern Podiatrist has gained a loyal following among individuals seeking top-tier, medically-backed footcare. Through her dedication to creating products that blend natural ingredients with cutting-edge podiatric treatments, Dr. Freels’ brand has revolutionized the way people care for their feet.
Modern Podiatrist offers a carefully crafted lineup of foot and skincare products, including finely-milled salt scrubs, hydrating balms, and foot soaks, all designed with the highest quality ingredients in mind. The brand’s offerings are not just for general wellness but also include solutions for specific conditions like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus, providing professional-grade results in the comfort of your own home.
For those with diabetes or at-risk feet, Dr. Freels’ therapeutic pedicure, offered exclusively at the Marriott Spa at Griffin Gate, utilizes only her premium line. It’s this attention to detail and commitment to quality that sets Modern Podiatrist apart in the world of footcare.
The Philosophy Behind Modern Podiatrist: “It’s About Care, Not Just Products”
Modern Podiatrist is more than just a brand; it’s a philosophy. Dr. Freels has always believed that footcare is about more than just treating ailments; it’s about empowering individuals to take control of their foot health through education, high-quality products, and preventative care. The brand’s commitment to this philosophy is evident in every product, every consultation, and every interaction.
“My grandfather’s approach was always holistic,” Dr. Freels recalls. “He believed in giving his patients the tools they needed to care for themselves. That’s what I wanted to bring into Modern Podiatrist, tools that empower people to take control of their own health.”
The brand’s success isn’t just due to its high-quality products but also the genuine care and passion Dr. Freels pours into every detail. Her knowledge as a podiatrist, combined with her commitment to patient education, has helped Modern Podiatrist build a strong and loyal community.
A Doctor Who Wears Many Hats: Innovating for the Future of Footcare
Beyond her work with Modern Podiatrist, Dr. Freels continues to lead Lexington Podiatry, where she oversees the health and well-being of thousands of patients. As a second-generation podiatrist, her multi-faceted approach to foot and ankle care integrates both traditional methods and modern technologies, providing patients with the best of both worlds.
Dr. Freels is also known for her involvement with industry leaders such as Brooks Running Shoes and PowerStep Inserts. As a Key Opinion Leader and Medical Advisor, she works to design innovative solutions that elevate the podiatric care experience. Her ongoing collaborations with brands and her extensive background in foot health have positioned her as a thought leader in the field.
But what truly sets Dr. Freels apart is her genuine passion for feet, an understanding that goes beyond the technical aspects of the profession. Her holistic approach to patient care is rooted in a love for the outdoors and an active lifestyle. Whether she’s skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, or playing tennis, Dr. Freels knows firsthand the importance of maintaining healthy feet in order to live an active, fulfilling life.
A Growing Legacy: Modern Podiatrist’s Next Chapter
Modern Podiatrist has already earned a solid reputation, but Dr. Freels isn’t stopping there. The brand’s reach continues to grow, with products available for retail and wholesale, enabling other podiatrists and wellness professionals to offer her expertly crafted footcare solutions to their own clients. By focusing on providing not only high-quality footcare but also business solutions through her company ToeTactics, Dr. Freels is paving the way for other podiatrists to elevate their practices and connect with patients in new ways.
“I want to build a legacy of care,” Dr. Freels says. “It’s about helping others achieve better health outcomes and providing them with the tools they need to care for themselves.”
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