As the year winds down, December becomes a busy time for most people. Between holiday events, gift shopping, travel plans, and family gatherings, your calendar fills up fast. But while you’re wrapping presents and making plans for the new year, there’s one important thing you shouldn’t overlook—your health benefits.

At Roadrunner Foot and Ankle, we want to remind our Peoria, Arizona community that December is the ideal time to schedule a foot exam, especially if you’ve been dealing with ongoing foot, ankle, or toenail issues. If you have health insurance, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), or a Health Savings Account (HSA), the end of the year may be your last chance to use your benefits before they reset.

Let’s talk about why this month is so important—and how a simple foot exam could make a big difference heading into the new year.

1. Your Insurance Deductible May Have Been Met

If you’ve had doctor visits or medical procedures earlier this year, there’s a good chance you’ve already met your deductible. That means now is the perfect time to take care of non-emergency services, such as:

• Comprehensive foot and ankle exams
• In-office X-rays
• Custom orthotics
• Nail care for fungal or thickened toenails
• Diabetic foot screenings
• Treatment for plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or bunions

Once your deductible is met, your out-of-pocket cost for additional care may be significantly reduced—or even covered in full by your insurance.

2. FSA and HSA Funds May Expire

If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), any unused money may expire at the end of the year. Some plans allow a small grace period or carryover, but most follow a “use it or lose it” policy. That means if you don’t spend the funds, they disappear.

An exam at Roadrunner Foot and Ankle can qualify as an eligible expense for FSA and HSA accounts. These accounts can also be used toward orthotics, follow-up visits, or treatments recommended by our podiatrists.

3. Don’t Ignore Foot Pain During the Holidays

It’s easy to put off foot pain when you’re busy—but it usually doesn’t go away on its own. If you’ve been dealing with:

• Heel pain when you wake up
• Sore arches after shopping trips
• Swelling or redness in the ankle
• Discolored or thick toenails
• Numbness or tingling in your toes

Now is the time to get it checked. Delaying care can lead to bigger problems down the road, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

At Roadrunner Foot and Ankle, we treat patients of all ages—from toddlers to seniors—and we tailor each treatment plan to the patient’s specific needs. We listen carefully, explain the diagnosis clearly, and walk you through every option.

4. Start the New Year With Healthy Feet

There’s something satisfying about entering a new year on the right foot—literally. Addressing pain now means you can enjoy upcoming events, travel plans, and wellness goals without limping, aching, or missing out.

December is also a great time to schedule preventive care. If you’re managing chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or plantar fasciitis, a quick exam can keep your condition under control and help prevent flare-ups as the seasons change.

5. Appointments Fill Up Fast—Don’t Wait

Because many patients try to use their benefits before they expire, December fills up quickly in our office. If you want to be seen before the end of the year, we recommend calling as soon as possible to reserve your appointment.

At Roadrunner Foot and Ankle, we offer:

• Same-day or next-day appointments when available
• In-office X-rays for quick diagnosis
• Expert care from board-certified podiatrists
• A comfortable, patient-first experience

We’re proud to serve Peoria and the surrounding areas with compassionate, knowledgeable foot and ankle care.

Make the Most of Your Benefits—Before They Disappear

Your feet carry you through the busiest season of the year—don’t wait until pain forces you to stop. Whether you need relief from foot pain, a check-up for a chronic condition, or a second opinion on a long-term problem, Roadrunner Foot and Ankle is here to help.

Use your FSA, HSA, or insurance benefits before they expire. Take the first step toward healthier feet and a healthier you.

Call our Peoria, AZ office today to schedule your end-of-year foot exam with Dr. Margaret Withrow or Dr. Dylan Kaumaya. Let’s help you step into the new year feeling your best.