About Us
Weil Foot & Ankle Institute brings expert, patient-first podiatric care to Chicago and 16 surrounding communities across Illinois.
How We Started and Where We’re Going
Weil Foot & Ankle Institute was built on a simple idea: foot and ankle care should be accessible, evidence-based, and centered on real patient outcomes, not just prescriptions.
Founded in 1965 by Dr. Lowell Weil Sr., who was inspired to progress Foot & Ankle Care into the future through innovation. As one of the first Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), Dr. Weil Sr. trained around the world, seeking out ideas, both within podiatry, but also outside of that realm, to dream of new ways to make podiatric care better.
Today, WFAI’s commitment to you, our patient, is we will always strive to bring you the best patient experience and state-of-the art Foot & Ankle Care, by investing in innovation, technology and our talent.
Our Values
We enhance quality of life through innovative, patient-focused foot and ankle care, aiming to be the world’s most trusted global leader in research and clinical excellence.
Our Mission
Deliver exceptional podiatric care that restores mobility, reduces pain, and improves quality of life for every patient we see.
Our Approach
Evidence-based treatment, personalized care plans, and outcomes that matter to the patients in front of us.
A Legacy of Innovation
Dr. Lowell Weil Sr. — Founder & Global Pioneer
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern podiatric surgery and sports medicine, Dr. Weil Sr. founded Weil Foot & Ankle Institute in 1965. Driven by a mission to revolutionize foot care, he pioneered the Scarf Bunionectomy—a procedure practiced worldwide today—and served as the official team podiatrist for the Chicago Bears and Chicago White Sox. His guiding philosophy remains our core principle: “Treat people, not feet.”
Dr. Lowell Weil Jr. — CEO & Practice Leadership
Continuing his father’s legacy, Dr. Weil Jr. expanded WFAI into a premier regional institute by pairing clinical excellence with modern organizational innovation. He helped establish one of the nation’s first Podiatric Fellowship programs to train future industry leaders and continues to drive WFAI’s commitment to patient-centered, evidence-based care.
What Our Growth and Patient Outcomes Tell You About Our Practice
We’ve built a network of specialists dedicated to foot and ankle health across multiple locations
30+
Years Serving the Community
60+
Years Serving Illinois
96%
Patient Satisfaction
What Sets Us Apart
Clinical Expertise
Board-certified specialists in sports medicine, surgery, and orthotics.
Same-Day Care & Walk-Ins Welcome
Helping patients return faster with less pain and better outcomes.
Convenient Locations to Serve You
Same-week appointments available at multiple locations near you.
Short Healing Time
Minimal downtime so you can get back to your sooner.
Insurance Accepted
We work with all major insurance plans and offer transparent pricing.
Online Scheduling
Book your appointment instantly with our specialists.
Your Feet Are in Expert Hands
No providers found.
Patient Testimonials
— Anonymous
— Susan E.
— Marco A.
— Scott D.
— Heather B.
— Carol F.
— Renee J.
“An excellent experience from start to finish. Very professional, efficient, and most importantly, took care of my foot issue. Thank you. A good team!”
-Susan E.
Hear From Marianne
Since 2005, Marianne has trusted Dr. Weil Jr. for multiple procedures on both feet. Every one succeeded, and with attentive staff and strong physical therapy support, she’s stayed pleased with her care ever since.
We Accept All Major Insurances
Including but not limited to
Call us for details to check your insurance coverage.
Got questions? We Have Answers
How does Weil Foot and Ankle Institute integrate my care from diagnosis through recovery?
Our practice manages your entire health journey seamlessly from start to finish. Rather than referring you out for separate services, our specialists provide on-site diagnostics, individualized care plans, specialized orthotics, surgical options, and long-term recovery management all within our system.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
To help you find fast relief, we hold daily open slots to accommodate same-week and same-day requests. In most cases, you don’t need a formal doctor referral to schedule an evaluation—you can book an appointment online or call us directly.
Can I get a second opinion on my foot or ankle condition or proposed surgery?
Absolutely. We frequently assist patients seeking a second look at a foot or ankle diagnosis. We will perform a comprehensive assessment, go over your past medical records, and answer every question so you can decide what’s right for you.
Care starts here, book in minutes
Get seen by our team today. Same-day appointments are typically available.