Claire Futenma, D.P.M.

PHYSICIAN Q&A
In step with Claire Futenma, D.P.M.

The human foot contains 26 bones and a network of muscles and nerves that work together to let you walk the walk, march to a different drummer or kick up your heels.

So, it’s no surprise that the foot merits its own medical specialty. Feet have a variety of diseases, injuries and hereditary defects that require specific training and experience. Luckily, Huntington Medical Foundation has such a specialist. While you’ll read more about feet in this issue, here’s your chance to get to know the doctor.

Name?

Claire E. Futenma, D.P.M.

What’s a D.P.M?

Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. I focus on feet.

How do I pronounce your last name?

Fu-TEN-ma. The accent is on the “ten,” which is the ideal number of toes.

You really do focus on feet, huh?

I can’t help it. Solving patients’ problems is a great job.

Where did you study?

I was born on the Hawaiian island of Kauai and attended college at the University of Hawaii at Manoa on Oahu, where I received a degree in biology.

And podiatry?

I came to the mainland to attend the California College of Podiatric Medicine in San Francisco. Then I moved south to complete my clinical training and residency at County/USC Medical Center and Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. I am also Board Qualified in Foot Surgery.

Where have you practiced?

Over the years, I have worked at podiatric centers, and was in private practice in the South Bay. Those positions were great preparation for the variety of cases I see at HMF. And since I live in the area, working in Pasadena is wonderful.

What kind of problems are you seeing?

Everything from warts and ingrown toenails to sports injuries to congenital defects. My patients range in age from 18 months old to 90-something.

How can you help?

Many minor problems can be handled in the office. Chronic problems may require special footwear or a course of treatment, and some patients do need surgery.

What if I have two left feet?

Take two dance lessons and call me in the morning.