Your First Appointment with Upperline Health Podiatry


Topics include: Podiatry

First-time visit

What to Expect During Your Visit

Congratulations on taking an important step to ensure you are doing all you possibly can to maintain the health of your feet and your entire body. By scheduling a consultation with your Upperline Health Podiatrist, you’re doing more than just booking a visit— you are establishing a relationship with a team committed to making sure you maintain the health of your feet and live your life to its fullest.  


Let’s walk through what you can expect on your first appointment.

Before You Arrive


To make the most of your appointment, please:

  • Completing “paperwork” ahead of time online – an option available to you when registering through our online patient portal. While not required, registering ahead of time can save time when you arrive. 
  • Wear comfortable, easy-to-remove shoes so we can examine your feet thoroughly.
  • Bring a current list of all medications you’re taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. While we’re focused on your feet, understanding your complete health picture helps us provide the best care possible.

When you arrive, our friendly staff will greet you and help you get settled.

During Your Appointment


A Comprehensive Foot and Lower Leg Evaluation

Once you’re in the treatment room, your podiatrist will begin by listening to you. We’ll discuss any foot concerns you have and answer your questions—your comfort and understanding are our priorities.

Next comes a thorough examination of your lower extremities. Building on the information we covered in Parts 1 and 2 of this series, your doctor will evaluate:

  • Vascular Health – We’ll assess the blood flow to your legs and feet, checking that oxygen and nutrients are reaching the tissues that need them.
  • Neurological Function – Your podiatrist will test the sensation in your feet to ensure the nerves are working properly and you can feel normally.
  • Foot Structure and Pressure Points – We’ll examine the overall alignment and structure of your feet to identify any areas where excess pressure could lead to skin breakdown or ulcers. If needed, we can fit you for custom diabetic insoles and shoes that redistribute pressure and protect your feet.

These evaluations form the foundation of our prevention-focused approach—helping you avoid serious complications like ulcers or amputation.

Additional Testing When Needed


X-rays and Specialist Referrals

If your podiatrist determines that additional testing would be helpful, we can arrange it quickly. Most of our clinics offer on-site X-rays, which means we can take and review images during your same visit.

As part of comprehensive diabetic foot care, we recommend yearly X-rays to monitor for any changes in your foot structure over time.

If we identify concerns about circulation or nerve function, we’ll coordinate referrals to vascular specialists or neurologists who can provide additional expertise.


Coordinated Care Across Your Team

Office staff on phone

Working Together for Your Health

At Upperline Health, we believe in treating the whole person, not just isolated symptoms. That’s why we maintain direct communication with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers.

Our state-of-the-art electronic medical records system ensures that everyone on your care team has access to your information, creating seamless, coordinated care that keeps you at the center.


Moving Forward Together

Thank you for trusting Upperline Health with your foot and ankle care. We’re honored to be your partner in health, and we’re committed to supporting you in your healthcare journey.


About the Author

H. Austin Hewlett, DPM, FACFAS, QME

H. Austin Hewlett, DPM, FACFAS, QME

Dr. Hewlett is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and serves as the Sports Medicine Fellowship Director for Upperline Health in Newport Beach, California. He has been a partner at Upperline Health since 2019 and brings decades of clinical and leadership experience to his practice.

Before beginning his formal medical education, Dr. Hewlett spent four years traveling internationally, surfing, and studying viticulture in Australia. He later earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California, San Diego, before completing his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine at Temple University.

Dr. Hewlett has been a member of the Orthopedic Executive Committee at Saint Joseph’s Hospital for more than 15 years and has served the Orange County community with dedication and compassion for over 25 years. His commitment to ongoing education and advanced training allows him to provide the highest level of care, combining clinical excellence with a patient-centered approach.

Dr. Hewlett is available for appointments at the following locations:

Upperline Health – Orange

1038 East Chapman Avenue
Orange, California 92866

Upperline Health – Newport Beach

2131 San Joaquin Hills Road
Newport Beach, California 92660