Raymond A. Fritz, DPM

My philosophy is to treat the whole patient and not just the foot or ankle problem. My goal is to listen to the patient so I can better understand their needs and expectations. I need to understand not only the problem, but also the patient's lifestyle and activity demands. I need to know the occupational demands as well as recreational goals. Treating symptoms is obviously important, but in my field it is important to address underlying mechanical causes for a problem. My goal is to return the patient to their desired level of activity. As a former SEAL and later podiatric consultant to the Special Warfare Community, I truly understand the importance of a good set of feet and the need for everyone to get back to action quickly. Rapid access to care is the essential ingredient for a fast recovery. Allentown Family Foot Care has five doctors and four locations. Same-day appointments are available, and we offer evening and Saturday hours. Service is what we do best. We work for our patients. A TEAM is ready to serve your needs.

I was extremely fortunate having the opportunity to enlist in the military at the age of 17. I received advanced special operations training that also included medical training. I was exposed to many facets of medicine over my five-year initial enlistment. My interest in medicine led me to Muhlenberg College, where I received my undergraduate (pre-med) degree. During my time there, I experienced an injury while running track that became chronic. As a result of a podiatry specialist and a set of custom foot orthotics, my two-year problem resolved. It seemed magical after the years of failed treatment. As a result of that experience, I chose podiatric medicine as my life profession.

I have been very involved in mentoring and teaching for most of my adult life. I have coached track, cross country and swimming at the high school level in this community. I initiated and coached cross country at Christ the King School (kindergarten through eighth grade). Together with my sons, we have supported local fundraising efforts via Team Nick, entering and competing in various running events and triathlons. Team Nick has made presentations to the Lehigh Valley Hospital Pediatric Oncology Clinic as a result of event competitions and fundraising. Presently, I am very involved with local SEAL mentoring efforts, assisting to prepare local candidates for an experience of a lifetime, pursing a career as a Navy SEAL.I am an active member of the VFW Post 7293 in Egypt, Pa. I am vice president of the PA-NJ-DEL Chapter of the UDT/SEAL Association. I am one of the coordinators for an annual SEAL charity event that benefits the children of our fallen heroes. Allentown Family Foot Care is a sponsor for events, which are listed on our website www.affc.com.I also volunteer time to the clinic at Lehigh Valley Hospital for the care of the less fortunate.

My interests include sports medicine, and I have competed in many events over my lifetime, including road races, triathlons, swimming and biking. I definitely have the experience as a competitor and provider. I have served as a consultant to the Naval Academy, Quantico Marine Clinic and the SEAL Training Center and SEAL TEAMS. I competed as a member of the U.S. Military C.I.S.M. Pentathlon Team. I continue to train daily. I enjoy helping others reach their personal goals by treating their sports injuries and eliminating their pain. I have an interest in diabetic foot problems. My goal is prevention through education and helping the patient understand that their best success is a result of their personal efforts. Diet and exercise are extremely important, as well as good medical management. Many diabetic patients need support and coaching to return to an active healthier lifestyle. Foot problems can be a major obstacle. There are many mechanical approaches to foot pain that often solve and prevent problems. Every diabetic should have an annual foot exam. This topic is very high on my list since I have personal family experiences with diabetes and the complications that often result. Teaching is also important to me. It is a way of giving back. Our practice has affiliations with several universities' medical and residency programs.