Restoring Mobility. Preserving Health.
Compassionate, Advanced Care Focused on Your Unique Foot and Ankle Health Needs Every Day
Expert Foot & Ankle Care, Every Step of the Way
I, Julio C. Ortiz, DPM, FACFAS, am dedicated to accessible, expert podiatric medical care for patients throughout South Florida.
About Dr. Ortiz
Dr. Ortiz, a distinguished podiatric surgeon, brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to his practice. Born in Havana, Cuba, he immigrated to Florida at the age of two with his family and grew up in Hialeah. His passion for sports medicine was sparked during his time at Miami Springs Senior High School after sustaining a knee injury. Choosing to forgo athletic scholarships for college wrestling, Dr. Ortiz pursued his calling in medicine, enrolling at Barry University—one of only two institutions at the time with a accredited Sports Medicine program.
Dr. Ortiz earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Medicine and Athletic Training with a minor in Biology. His growing interest in podiatric medicine led him to continue his studies at Barry University, where he graduated in the top 10% of his podiatry school class. During his final year, he served as a tutor and mentor, demonstrating his commitment to education and leadership.
His training included externship rotations at prestigious institutions such as Cambridge Health Alliance of Harvard University and Ft. Benning Hospital in Georgia, where he gained hands-on experience in the medical and surgical care of traumatic injuries for soldiers in Military Jump School. Dr. Ortiz completed his post-graduate surgical training at JFK Medical Center in Atlantis, Florida, where he served as Chief Resident from 2006 to 2007. He further honed his expertise through advanced courses in Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Surgery, Diabetic Limb Salvage, Adult and Pediatric Flatfoot Correction, Deformity Correction, Ankle Arthroscopy, Sports Medicine, and Total Ankle Joint Replacement.
As one of the select few podiatric surgeons in South Florida trained in total ankle joint replacement, Dr. Ortiz is proficient in all current systems available on the U.S. market. He holds surgical privileges for these procedures at Bethesda Health Hospitals and JFK Medical Center.
Dr. Ortiz is an active member of the American, Florida, and Palm Beach County Podiatric Medical Associations. As a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, he has contributed to the Community Education Committee, furthering the advancement of podiatric care.
Dedicated to education, Dr. Ortiz holds teaching positions at four podiatry schools, including Adjunct Clinical Professor at Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine, Clinical Instructor at Western University of Health Sciences, and Clinical Professor at Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine. He also serves as a teaching attending for two South Florida surgical residency programs. Dr. Ortiz is the Residency Director for Bethesda Memorial Hospital’s three-year Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Surgery Residency Program. In this role, he provides surgical training, mentors podiatric students, and collaborates on clinical research for publication.
A sought-after speaker, Dr. Ortiz lectures locally and nationally and serves as a consultant for several orthopedic foot and ankle surgery instrument companies. He has also been a faculty member and clinical instructor for multiple surgical skills courses, helping fellow podiatrists enhance their expertise with cutting-edge techniques and instrumentation.
Dr. Ortiz is on staff and takes ER call at JFK Medical Center and Bethesda Health (East & West). While he is skilled in the latest surgical techniques for foot and ankle conditions, Dr. Ortiz prioritizes patient-centered care, exploring all conservative and non-surgical options before recommending surgery. At Palm Beach Orthopedic Institute, he and his team are committed to delivering the fastest and most effective recovery for every patient.
For more information about Dr. Ortiz or to schedule an appointment, please contact our office or visit our website.
Advancing Care Through Innovation
Podiatric Medical and Surgical Care
Seeking treatment by a Foot & Ankle specialist
Foot and ankle physicians and surgeons are the leading experts in lower extremity care. Podiatric physicians specialize in all aspects of lower extremity care, including but not limited to treating Diabetic foot conditions and complications. Foot and ankle specialist also treat plantar fasciitis, foot and fractures, lower extremity infections, Achilles tendonitis and tears, heel spurs, bunion deformities, hammertoe deformities, as well as flat and high arched feet. Foot and ankle surgeons have more education and training specific to the foot and ankle than any other healthcare provider.
Limb Salvage Surgery
Lower extremity limb salvage is requires a comprehensive approach to address multitude of factors that lead to limb loss. A complex surgical approach is often required to save a foot / leg that is severely threatened by injury, infection or disease. The procedure prevents amputation by using advanced reconstructive techniques, often involving multiple surgeries, to restore blood flow, repair bones and joints, and rebuild soft tissue. The ultimate goal is to preserve the limb's form and function and improve the patient's quality of life.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes Foot Care Recommendations
Taking care of your feet is crucial if you have diabetes, as even a small cut can lead to serious issues. Diabetes can cause nerve damage, which may make it hard to feel injuries in your feet. It can also reduce blood flow, slowing healing and increasing infection risk. For example, you might not notice a small object in your shoe, which could cause a blister or sore. If untreated, this could turn into an infection or a wound that won’t heal, potentially leading to amputation. To prevent these problems and protect your toes, feet, or legs, follow these simple guidelines.
Bunion Surgery
Understanding Bunions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Bunions are a common foot condition that can cause discomfort, but many people delay seeking help due to misunderstandings about what they are and how they’re treated. With the right care, you can manage bunion pain and improve your quality of life. Here’s what you need to know.
Your Path to Healthier Steps
Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, specialized diabetic foot care, or advanced surgical solutions, I'm here to help. Reach out today to get the care you need.