If you’ve searched for foot and ankle care in the Charlotte area, you’ve likely come across the name Dr. Thurmond Lanier. As the founder and medical director of SmartStep Foot and Ankle, Dr. Lanier has built a reputation for combining high-level surgical expertise with a deeply personal, patient-centered approach.
We sat down for a "virtual interview" with Dr. Lanier to discuss his background, his passion for podiatry, and how SmartStep is expanding care across North and South Carolina through innovative telehealth technology.
Q: Dr. Lanier, you have quite an impressive academic background. From biology to public health and teaching, you’ve done a lot. How do these different disciplines influence how you practice medicine today?
Dr. Lanier: "I’ve always believed that to be a great doctor, you first have to be a great student and a great communicator. My Master’s in Teaching from the University of South Carolina really taught me how to break down complex medical concepts so my patients actually understand their diagnosis.
My Master of Public Health (MPH) gives me a broader perspective on community wellness. I don’t want to just look at a foot injury in isolation. Instead, I look at how we can improve access to care for everyone in the Charlotte Metro and across the Carolinas. Whether I’m performing a complex reconstructive surgery in the Gastonia region or treating a fungal infection in Myrtle Beach via a telehealth call, my goal is always the same: helping patients regain their mobility and live pain-free."
Q: SmartStep has become a leader in the Charlotte Metro for onsite care. What can patients expect when they visit you in person?
Dr. Lanier: "When you come to see us for an onsite podiatry visit in Charlotte, you're getting state-of-the-board-certified care in a comfortable environment. We specialize in the full spectrum of podiatry, including sports injuries, chronic heel pain, and advanced reconstructive surgeries.
We pride ourselves on providing onsite foot care in the Charlotte region, meaning we come to you. Whether you’re at home, a workplace, an assisted living facility…we provide care where it’s most convenient for you.
Charlotte is my home. It’s where I live with my wife and four children. When I see a patient in the area, I’m seeing a neighbor. We make sure that our onsite care is efficient but never rushed. We want to ensure that every 'Smart Step' you take toward recovery is backed by open communication and a personalized recovery plan."
Q: You’ve been a big advocate for telehealth. How are you using this to help patients in both North and South Carolina?
Dr. Lanier: "This is something I’m incredibly passionate about. Foot pain doesn't care about state lines or busy schedules. By offering telehealth services in both North Carolina and South Carolina, we’ve removed the barriers to specialized podiatric care.
Many people don't realize how much we can accomplish virtually. Whether it’s an initial consultation for a sports injury, a follow-up on a surgical site, or managing a chronic condition like gout, telehealth allows me to see patients where they are most comfortable.
It’s a 'smart step' for someone in rural North Carolina who needs an expert opinion but can’t make the drive to Charlotte, or for a busy professional in the city who needs a quick check-in during their lunch break. It’s also the perfect companion to our onsite services in the Charlotte area."
Q: We know you’re a big sports fan. Does that influence your work as a podiatrist?
Dr. Lanier: "Absolutely! As a die-hard Carolina Panthers and South Carolina Gamecocks fan, I spend a lot of time at stadiums and sporting events. I see the 'fancy footwork' on the field, but I also see the toll it takes on the body.
Understanding the mechanics of an athlete helps me treat my weekend warriors and student-athletes more effectively. I know how important it is to get back on your feet. Whether you're competing on the field or just walking through the Mint Museum or Windy Hill Orchard with your family, having strong, healthy feet is a must!”
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Dr. Lanier: "It’s the moment a patient realizes they can walk without pain again. Whether we achieved that through a custom orthotic or a guided recovery plan initiated via telehealth, seeing that transformation is why I founded SmartStep Foot and Ankle. We are here to ensure that every patient in the Carolinas can keep moving forward."
Are you struggling with foot or ankle pain? Whether you prefer an in-person visit in the Charlotte Metro or you prefer the convenience of a telehealth appointment anywhere in NC or SC, Dr. Lanier and the SmartStep team are ready to help.
Book your appointment today and regain control over your mobility and your life!
Dr. Thurmond Lanier
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