Lisa M. Schoene, DPM, ATC, FACFAS

If this clinic is working for you, great. Keep doing what you’re doing. After a single visit, I had to look elsewhere.
My complaint is not with scheduling (easy), the clinic running behind (it was, but not terribly so), or billing (irritating, as expected). Instead, my complaint is that after one visit, my condition became *a lot worse* — as in pain where none had previously existed and markedly less ability to do the activities I was able to do before setting foot (no pun intended) in her office. This backslide was unexpected (apparently), lasted for weeks, and required the intervention of another physician. I have seen a lot of physicians for a lot of different problems in my life, ranging from shin splints to tooth ache, but this was the first time that a physician’s intervention sent my recovery trajectory *backwards*.
Dr. Schoene clearly knows feet and really does seem to be a good educator. I too was mesmerized by her model of the foot skeleton. But upon reflection, I think she may better at talking than listening, which is fine for dealing with standard-​issue foot problems, but hobbles judgment for dealing with less routine cases on a busy day in the clinic. In hindsight, it also seems that her intervention actually contradicted her diagnostic impression, which is to say that if her impression was correct, her intervention was almost guaranteed to exacerbate the problem. It is possible that had I continued to see her, she could have righted the ship, so to speak, but based on my experience, I did not want to take that risk.
I hope that other patients, even those with scheduling and billing problems, have vastly better clinical outcomes with her than I did.

You’re advised while making your appointment to check with your insurance to confirm they are in-​network and what your benefits are. Done and done. Unfortunately, 3 months after my initial visit (which I went into knowing my insurance covers 100% after copay), I’ve received a large bill. It turns out that not only does the office code for your insurance to not cover things, but they also charge exorbitant amounts for simple things (think $ 55 for a piece of medical tape with some cotton stuck to it).
Dr. Schoene is probably great if you can afford her. Me? I’m thankful I cancelled my appointments for this supposed great 3 step treatment that included a shot (would’ve cost me $ 100 a visit), a massage (who knows what that would have cost) and an ultrasound treatment — times at least 7 visits before I would see a difference. I don’t pay for one of the best plans my work offers to have to keep forking over money at the doctors office. And I definitely don’t pay for non-​traditional treatments made up by doctors without any peer-​reviewed studies showing the treatment is effective.
After deciding to visit a different podiatrist, I’ve found that not only does this office participate in some shitty billing practices, but her treatment methods for something that is simple and straightforward are instead designed to keep you coming back and spending money in the office. I received a cortisone injection for plantar fasciitis from the Dr, and when it didn’t completely wipe out the issue she deemed me too bad of a case to do a second injection. Typical treatment is 3 injections and wouldn’t you know after 2 with my new doctor I’m already feeling much better.
It really disappointed me that Dr. Schoene is not at all what the reviews on here seem. I would not recommend her unless you’re more into the whole homeopathic approach with a lot of money to blow.

Dr. Schoene and staff are terrific. I’ve had feet issues my entire life. The first time I saw her was for plantar fascitus. Had never heard of it before. She provided an explanation, a foot wrap and instructions to return if it didn’t get better. I did have to return after trying the exercises and wearing the foot pad. One shot later and it hasn’t returned for years.
I’ve seen Dr. Schoene for ten years now. Both of our kids have gone to her as well as my husband. All with different needs and great results. I’ve recommended her to a few friends who have also received great help.
I’m writing now because after trying orthotics for my messed up feet, I finally had so much pain in one foot that I had to have surgery. The «good» foot (I use that term VERY losely) had been operated on when I was in my twenties (years ago they put me in a cast up to my knee!). Today is week two after surgery. Her awesome nurses have changed my bandages twice, not once did it hurt. They are so gentle and careful. She has xrayed the foot, checked it carefully each time and already started me on toe exercises to avoid arthritis and pain in the toe. The surgery was for a bunion (nice big bone spur on the top) and she had to make a chevron cut (a «V» shaped cut) to straighten the bone. Apologies to Dr Schoene if I am over simplifying this!
Yes, I’ve had to wait once or twice when she’s had an emergency at the Park City office and, I’ve also seen her once in the Chicago office and plan to do so again as needed since I work downtown. Never have I felt rushed or not listened to. She educates me about anything I’m curious about in regard to joints, feet, etc.
I was embarrassed to return to her office three times to discuss the surgery — but I had to cancel the surgery due to a couple of urgent family issues. Each time we decided to go forward with the surgery she repeated the process, explained what to expect. Her nurse Brady was incredibly detailed — also explaining what to expect, how to call at any time (Dr. Schoene provides her personal cell phone # because I was so afraid I’d have the same terrible pain as the first time I had the surgery).
This is already too long but I am incredibly picky about my doctors. Feet are so important and need the right care so if you are wondering if this is the doctor to see and the staff to trust… the answer is YES! The original recommendation to me came from a colleague at the hospital where I work and she is in infection control!!! What else can I say, we love you Dr. Schoene, Brady and staff.

So… I saw Dr. Shoene for a sport injury related to running. She is quite personable and recommended message therapy by her therapist. How much does it cost I asked. Well, 30 dollars for 30 minutes or you can ask for your insurance to pay. I did not want my insurance to be billed and thought that 30 dollars for 30 minutes was reasonable. So… I saw the therapist and Dr. Shoene said after the second message I should see her for follow up. I got the message and paid my 30 dollars and then waited for one hour and one half. I finally said to the clerk… sorry I am not waiting any longer. I could still hear Dr. Shoene talking to someone and knew I would wait for another hour to see her. The worst part is that I have been billed for 224 dollars for 2 messages that were supposed to cost 30 bucks. If I wanted to pay 125 bucks for a 30 minute foot message… well noone wants to pay that much. And she lied to me regarding the price. I would proceed with caution regarding this doctor. She lied to me and I am wondering how many other patients have over paid for services. Shame on Dr. Shoene.

I had foot pain for almost a year and had been referred to another podiatrist who was not helpful. I decided I would find myself a better doctor to get the problem resolved. I waited 6 weeks for an appointment with Dr. Schoene and it was worth it. She and her staff provide excellent care. I can’t recommend them highly enough.

Frustration mounting…
During my initial visit to Dr. Schoene last winter, I was impressed by her easy, personable manner and the professional expertise with which she diagnosed my symptoms. All good stuff.
The first hint of trouble came over the summer when I was waiting for a follow-​up appointment and watched another angry patient storm out of the office after he had been made to wait an inordinate period of time for his appointment.
At the end of August, the same thing happened to me. I had a 10:50 appointment and when, by 11:30, Dr. Schoene still hadn’t visited me, I had to leave to get back to work. I understand that appointments can run over, but making someone wait 40 minutes past the allotted time — during the middle of the workday when others have schedules to keep, too — demonstrates to me a disrespect for my time and commitments. I cared enough to be on time. It would be nice if Dr. Schoene felt the same.
The latest frustration is that after 2+ months, I’m still waiting for the deposit refund for my orthotics (my appointment was July 11 — today is Sept. 17). I called last week for an update and was told by the billing person that I might not see my refund until October. Three months for a simple deposit refund is unacceptable, and as with the missed appointment, seems to point to a systemic disregard for patient time and resources.
I do not plan on visiting Dr. Schoene again. While I’ve no doubt she’s a competent doctor, I am not interested in having my time and finances treated so disrespectfully.

I had a foot injury, more like a toe issue for about 3 years now. Neglected going to the doctor since it occurred and try to self treat the injury. I finally decided I need to get my life together and see a doctor. Per Unilocal I decided to see Lisa Schoene. I couldn’t agree with all the other reviews:
1. Late office hours: my appointment was at 7:40 PM
2. She was personable and didn’t make be feel weird about my ugly little creatures
3. Gave simple and affordable advice
4. No pressure to come back
5. Her Office assistant in the Chicago location was down to earth and nice.
Simply put, Dr. Schoene and her team is awesome.

Dr. Schoene is wonderful. I do not understand the previous reviewer’s claim that she did not get a reminder call prior to the appointment she forgot to keep – I have seen Dr. Schoene for close to two years and I have gotten a reminder call prior to each appointment I have had. the reminder message always states that a fee will be charged for no-​shows. Given how booked her schedule is, I think she is well within her rights to charge a patient for time specifically reserved for them when they do not show up. Dr. Schoene is a good listener, an awesome healer, compasionate, positive, and a believer in using the most natural, holistic, non-​invasive treatments possible before taking more extreme (e.g. surgical) measures. I have had several pairs of orthotics made for me in my lifetime. The pair Dr. Schoene made for me was the only pair I’ve had that fit perfectly from the get-​go, with no adjustments required, and they can even be used in my dress shoes! Like the previous reviewer, Amy K, I have very flat feet and absolutely need my orthotics in order to be comfortable. I know it is unusual to not need adjustments on orthotics, and of the many people I have referred to Dr. Schoene, those that did need to come back to her for orthotic adjustments, none of them were charged for this. Amy K’s experience baffles me. I wonder if instead of writing the terrible review on this awesome doctor, she had instead called Dr. Schoene to discuss the billing issues and other complaints, perhaps things would have been resolved to Amy K’s satisfaction. The one point Amy K is correct about is that sometimes Dr. Schoene’s appointments do run very late and I have learned to bring a book with me because, yes, it can be an hour or more wait regardless of your appointment time. I think this is because Dr. Schoene takes all the time with her patients that is needed, she has a big heart and will always squeeze in an emergency, and she is unfortunately only in her Chicago office two half days a week. Believe me, she is worth the wait.

Pinch me! I need to make sure that I didn’t go to Organic Foot Heaven. I was able to reschedule my appointment with Dr. Schoene a few days prior than the origional date. I was pretty happy because my Toe had been hurting since June from an accident. Well my toe was the only thing that hadn’t healed.
After going to physical therapy and a Doc that wanted me to take a weeks worth of Steriods, Dr. Schoene took Xray’s and could see that I had a pulled muscle.
I was injected with Organic Herbs Liquid form to help heal my toe, a little dancers brace and a cream. I am to see her in 3 weeks but she explained more to me in 30 minutes than I’ve had going on for about 4 months. What is more important is that I can get back to running soon and be able to put my Dancing Stilettos on in no time! She is Fabulous!

A phenomenal Physician! Feet fear no more. I am fairly accident prone, being 5’10″ and not very graceful my feet have taken the brunt of my clumsiness. Fortunately, for me AND my feet, I found my saving grace for any aliments from the hips down. I have to say, this was the best experience I’ve had at a doctors office since my visits to Dr. Dixon’s office, my Pediatrician. (Yes, I was one of those who went to my pediatrician until I was 20.)
I really appreciate a doctor that is willing to listen to your symptoms, complete a thorough exam and still have time to talk to you as an individual. Relatively new (within the last 2 years) to Chicago, my husband and I haven’t established a group of physicians yet. We had been relying on Unilocal when an ailment struck and holding our breathe that the doctor didn’t have a 6 month wait list. I hadn’t mentioned any of this to Dr. Schoene. As we talked and she found out more information about me she then asked if I needed any recommendations for other physicians. I thought this was extremely thoughtful. Dr. Schoene was nice enough — to not only write down their names, she looked up their website, address and telephone number for me as well.
She took her time diagnosing my problem and even examined a previous injury from 6 months ago. I appreciated seeing my x-​rays and having her explain each individual area. The foot skeleton model (for lack of a better term) was also extremely helpful for me to see. Dr. Schoene was able to show me exactly how my previous injury may of occurred and explain why it took so long to heal. This information made the last 5 months of my life (on crutches, in a big black boot, off crutches, back on crutches and all the while with some fairly excruciating pain) make sense. I had been visiting a very friendly Orthopedic Surgeon for 4 months due to this injury and never once was it described with the detail and model as Dr. Schoene used. Everytime I would visit my previous doctor I was told the swelling and sensitivity may take a year to go away, but I never understood why until today. Thank you Dr. Schoene!
My current injury was then diagnosed. She showed me several exercises and then made a brace for me to wear. She worked my foot for quite a while treating it with some massage therapy — always cautious of the tender areas. I breathe a sigh of relief that my feet are now in good hands.

I met with Dr. Schoene at her Gurnee and Chicago offices. What’s terrific about her is she writes everything down or gives you a print out with an explaination on it that you can read after the visit. She doesn’t have you waiting and gets you in an out efficiently.

This one is going to be long and lengthy —
In recent years, I’ve only heard horror stories about Podiatrists, how they are surgery happy and love to steal your money. I’ve been suffering from a torn meniscus in my right knee, due to an injury in bikram yoga 4 years ago. Over time this has caused everything on my right side to be misaligned and the arch in my right foot to drop. I was experiencing heal pain and soreness all over the foot. My acupuncturist recommended that I go and see Dr. Lisa Schoene.
I made an appointment to see Dr. Schoene at her River North location. The appointment set up was simple and they sent out some paperwork to be filled out prior to my appointment date.
The office is in a loft building, with an urban feel. The receptionist brought me into a room and asked me several questions about what was going on with my feet. She jotted down everything. There was a bit of a wait, but it was well worth it because Dr. Schoene made up for the time by spending a good 45mins to an hour with me. These days, that’s unheard of.
Dr. Schoene has a great personality, she is friendly, professional and extremely knowledgeable. We discussed my condition and she went over in detail why my foot was pronating. She did several balance tests and tried out a few pads that would go under my arch, so that it wouldn’t collapse. In order to be cost efficient, she took some foam and added it to the arch to see how it would work for me. She even made special pads for me to slide on my feet while practicing yoga! All very simple and creative ways to assist the arch from falling, keeping cost in mind.
I let her know that my knee was now effecting not only my foot, but my hip as well. It’s all connected so it was important to let her know. She asked me to send her copies of my MRI reports from both my knee and hip.
Due to not having insurance, and being a self pay customer, Dr. Schoene discounted my exam! The charge was totally reasonable and fair for all that she went over and did for me. I expected to pay a lot more than I did. I was to return in 2 weeks. The next day, I was already feeling better.
Lastly, I emailed my hip MRI report to Dr Schoene a few days later. She called me within a few days of reading the report and let me know what she thought. I was quite surprised that she took the time out to call and explain her thoughts in detail, on the report. What Dr. goes out of their way to make a phone call to their patient? This is very rare. In fact, I don’t ever recall any Dr. calling me to let me know anything.
Dr. Schoene has proven to be a superb and highly recommended Dr. She went above and beyond what we hope every Dr. will do, but does not. I truly appreciate her expertise and feel good knowing that she cares a great deal about her line of work and the patients that she is treating.

If you are looking for orthotics, Dr. Schoene is terrific. She tweaked my pair four times until they were just right. There was no charge for each follow up visit or each pair of newly tweaked orthotics. Thanks to the new orthotics, I’m running more often and longer than I ever have. Before orthotics, I’d pronate and couldn’t run 6 miles without shin splints or sore knees or sore ankles. With orthotics, my biomechanics are better and I can run a half marathon without any pain other than tired muscles. She has two offices… one in Chicago and one in Gurnee… and works with dancers, runners, bikers, kids, adults, etc.