Hillsborough Podiatrist Stars On TLC’s ‘My Feet Are Killing Me’

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Dr. Brad Schaeffer, a foot and ankle surgeon with a practice in Hillsborough, is starring in TLC’s new show "My Feet Are Killing Me" to help get patients with extreme foot issues back on their feet.

Schaeffer is a podiatrist at Family Foot & Ankle Specialists in Piscataway and Hillsborough who has encountered many foot issues over his years in the practice. Now he, along side Dr. Ebonie Vincent, are being faced with a whole new set of extreme challenges on the show.

"I had a gentleman who lost his mom a few years ago and neglected his life. His nails were close to world record length. Seeing that extreme case and turning it around is all inspiring," Schaeffer said. "It is challenging but also exciting… because for the most part you don't see these challenges walk into your office on a daily basis."

Other extreme foot issues Schaeffer encounters include the most severe fungus he has ever seen, the largest bunion he has ever treated, a man suffering from Proteus syndrome, or the Elephant Man’s Disease which has left him with gigantic feet, and more.

"I absolutely love it," Schaeffer said of being on the show. "You get to see the patients' journeys and struggles which are very, very compelling. It is inspiring. They have dealt with a lot throughout their lives and lost a lot. That is why the show is so great. For the most part I can help put their life back together so they can be able to live a healthy lifestyle. That's all I can ask for as a doctor."

Two of the most challenging foot issues Schaeffer will encounter on the show includes a girl with web toes. During surgery to separate them something goes wrong creating a stressful situation.

Another challenging issue was a woman with serpentine foot, or a foot with a Z-shaped pattern.

"That was the most challenging surgery just to get her foot back in appropriate alignment," Schaeffer said. "It took a long time and was taxing."

Schaeffer is no stranger to the television life as he previously competed on NBC's The Titan Games last year. He is hoping his exposure on"My Feet Are Killing Me" will shed light on the podiatry world and also help give hope to others who may be facing their own foot issues.

"A lot of times I get the question, 'What is podiatry?'... And I can't believe no one knows of podiatry," Schaeffer said. "Hopefully I never get this question again."

The third episode in the nine-part series of "My Feet Are Killing Me" will air on Thursday at 10 p.m. on TLC after "Dr. Pimple Popper." You can also catch up and watch the previous two episodes online at full-episodes/my-feet-are-killing-me.

For more information on about Schaeffer and his practice visit www.StopFootPainFast.com.

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