Hello, and welcome to University Foot and Ankle. My name is Scott Jacobsen. I am a podiatrist here in Chicago. I want to take a moment to tell you a little bit about myself, where I came from, and how I came to be a podiatric physician. I think it is important for people to know a little about their doctor.

I am originally from a small farm town in eastern Iowa. It was here that I attended grade school and high school and began to cultivate an interest in the sciences. My summers were spent in a local grocery store bagging groceries, stocking shelves and assisting people with their purchases. It was with this job that I discovered the joy of working with and helping other people.

My undergraduate college years were spent at the University of Iowa in Iowa City. My passion for the sciences led to a degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. Several part time jobs occupied what little free time I had. Early on, I worked as a research assistant in the department of dermatology studying sweat glands and the effects of certain chemicals on them. I eventually left that position to become a direct support assistant for mentally handicapped individuals situated within a group home in Iowa City. By my senior year, I had graduated to the level of assistant manager of that home taking on more responsibility.

I entered podiatric medical school right after college and soon began my graduate studies. The rigors of graduate school were both demanding and yet fulfilling. Outside of school, I was appointed the church organist at the Our Lady of Pompeii Shrine located in little Italy. I also formed a small band with a couple of fellow classmates. School went by quickly and before I knew it, I was a doctor.

My residency training consisted of a three-year surgical residency at St. Joseph Hospital here in Chicago. I was fortunate to be part of one of the largest podiatric residencies in the Midwest. In my third and final year, I was appointed chief resident of my department. Our training was well rounded and a large part of it focused on a new and exciting concept: External fixation. External fixation employs the use of wires, bars and plates to produce stability after reconstructive foot, ankle, or lower leg surgery. This concept allows for immediate post-operative weight bearing. Were patients once were stuck in a cast for six weeks, not walking, they now have the freedom to walk on both feet immediately following surgery with complete stabilization of there foot and leg.

I am excited to be a part of University Foot and Ankle. The physicians here are friendly, approachable and they employ the latest techniques for the treatment of foot and ankle disorders. I hope that you will take to time to get to know us…I know you won't be disappointed.

Sincerely,

Dr. Scott A. Jacobsen