The process of filing Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits begins immediately following an accident, so you need to make sure you take all the right steps to set yourself up for success.
CONDITIONS AND PROCEDURES
Ankle Osteoarthritis
When you are experiencing pain in the ankle, it is often from a type of arthritis affecting this joint known as ankle osteoarthritis.
LEARN MORELisfranc Injury
This is an injury of the foot in which one or more of the metatarsal bones are displaced from the tarsus.
LEARN MORESyndesmosis Sprain
A syndesmosis sprain, also referred to as a high ankle sprain, occurs as a result of ligament damage in the ankle.
LEARN MOREHallux Rigidus
A form of degenerative arthritis, which can cause pain and stiffness in the metatarsophalangeal joint (the joint where your big toe—the hallux—joins your foot).
LEARN MOREFlat Foot
A condition in which the entire sole of the foot touches the floor when standing.
LEARN MOREOsteoarthritis of the Foot
Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that can cause pain and inflammation in any of the joints in the foot.
LEARN MOREBunions
A bunion, medically termed hallux valgus, occurs when the big toe leans too far into the second one and causes a swelling on the side of the big toe joint
LEARN MOREHammertoes
Hammertoes are a potentially serious problem for people who suffer from poor circulation or diabetes. It is easy to diagnose through a quick examination.
LEARN MOREPeroneal Tendinitis/Dislocation/Subluxation
The peroneal tendon’s primary function is to stabilize the ankle and foot, protecting them from sprains. Dislocation or subluxation is common if in athletes.
LEARN MORELigament Sprain/Instability
When you injure one or more ligaments in your ankle, typically on the outside of your ankle, it is known as an ankle sprain or sometimes called a ligament sprain/instability.
LEARN MOREOsteochondral Defect (OCD)
This is any type of damage to articular cartilage and underlying (subchondral) bone.
LEARN MOREDR. ERIK NILSSEN
ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON
As founder and guiding force behind the Nilssen Ankle and Foot Center, in Pensacola Florida, Dr. Nilssen devotes his passion for service to building the most premier center in the world. In addition to his practice, he also devotes time to mentoring both Sports Medicine and Foot & Ankle Fellows through the AREI Dual Fellowship Program.
DR. SONYA AHMED
ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON
Sonya Ahmed, MD is a board certified and fellowship-trained Orthopedic Surgeon with expertise in treating disorders of the foot and ankle. Her surgical interests include arthroscopic and open treatment of all foot and ankle disorders, including athletic and reconstructive procedures as well as cartilage transplant procedures.
OUR BLOG
CHECK OUT OUR LATEST UPDATES
Personal Injury: Benefits of Going to an Orthopedic Specialist Versus the ER
Seeking medical attention will help if you are forced to make a personal injury claim. However, there is a big difference between going to an orthopedic specialist and an emergency room following an accident.
How an Orthopedic Specialist Can Help With Your Personal Injury Case
From a medical standpoint, an orthopedic specialist is by far the best medical provider to see following an accident.
Common Orthopedic Injuries You Can Suffer From Following an Accident
Hidden injuries can surface in the days or weeks following an accident, and, if left untreated, they can lead to years of pain and suffering.
10 Questions to Ask Your Personal Injury Specialist
If you have been injured in an accident, asking the right questions of your healthcare provider is critically important
3 Reasons to See an Orthopedic Specialist After an Accident
Accidents can cause a variety of orthopedic injuries, ranging in severity from mild to life-threatening.
Nilssen Orthopedics Expands by Adding Dr. Sonya Ahmed
Dr. Ahmed is a valuable addition to Nilssen Orthopedics because she brings with her expertise in the treatment of disorders related to the ankle and foot. She performs open as well as arthroscopic surgery.
5 Reasons Not To Wear Flip Flops
When Summer arrives, it’s time to find a pair of flip flops…or is it? Although flip flops represent the onset of Summer, they’re not appropriate for everyday use.
WHAT OUR PATIENTS ARE SAYING
Doctor Nilssen is a great Doctor and really knows what he is doing. God Bless you for all your great work...!!!
John Woodward
2019-08-17T16:10:07+0000
After over a year of pain from breaking my foot. One visit to Dr. Nilssen he said he could fix it and although I’m still recovering. I believe it is FIXED. 😀the whole team there are awesome.read more
Sharon Reece
2019-07-30T16:39:24+0000
I appreciate the doctors and staff at Nilssen Orthopedics. Not my first ortho surgery - so I have other great experiences as a previous benchmark. These are professional and compassionate people. Thanks to each one!read more
Marianne Carlton
2019-07-29T00:29:49+0000
Great Doctors, great staff, very friendly and accommodating! Dr. Nilssen fixed a long-standing problem with my ankle that no one else was even willing to consider. 100% top-shelf experience! Hope I never need them again, but if I did I wouldn't hesitate. By the way, Nilssen Orthopedics is a 5-hour drive for me, and worth every minute of it! Highly recommend, if you're fortunate enough to live close, it's a no-brainer.read more
Burt David
2019-07-25T15:48:46+0000
Absolutely 100%. Dr. Nilssen saved my husband's foot.
Debbie Park Dumas
2019-07-25T00:01:46+0000
Dr. Ahmed knows her stuff and takes the time to listen to her patients. I enjoy Amanda and Scott in PT. I don't feel rushed in either office.read more
Felicia Mack
2019-07-24T18:49:30+0000
Dr. Ahmed and her team were outstanding. She reached out to check on my son post op for several days even through the weekend. The care she and her staff provided was exceptional and I highly recommend Dr. Ahmed!read more
Angel Cole Whyner
2019-07-12T02:49:38+0000
Dr. Ahmed and the staff were outstanding from beginning to end. I can't recommend them highly enough.
Clayton Karsten
2019-07-03T14:14:38+0000
very professional am looking forward to a successful surgery
William Sharon
2019-06-30T02:16:36+0000
Thanks to Dr. Nilssen and his great staff for outstanding care.
Sandy Dews Breed
2019-06-29T14:45:32+0000
My initial visit was awesome. Dr Ahmed was very professional and explained my treatment and upcoming surgery very thoroughly. She and her associates made me feel very comfortable with my decision to use Nilssen Orthopaedics. The staff there are amazing! I felt very comfortable in their care! Thanks to everyone at Nilssen Orthopaedicsread more
Tommy Hulsey
2019-05-30T23:00:49+0000
Dr Nilseen is a wonderful person and an excellent surgeon. I would highly recommend him.
Sunny Huff
2019-03-27T23:23:35+0000
Dr. Nilssen did a wonderful job on my ankle repair surgery. The staff is helpful and friendly and appointment times have been punctual with little wait time.read more
Amy Peterson
2019-03-04T15:38:41+0000
Dr. Nilssen and his staff are at the top of their field. I highly recommend Nilssen Orthopedics. I had a severely deformed right foot that Dr. Nilssen felt he could correct. He did. I am so pleased and grateful for such fine work.read more
Wendy Johnson
2019-02-26T21:39:31+0000
I’ve been seeing Dr Nilssen for 5 yrs and he’s the best foot Dr I’ve ever seen! The office staff are amazing, caring and etc! Thank you Dr Nilssen for the amazing care and at-tentativeness you give each and every patient that comes to your office!Rochelleread more
Rochelle Juttner
2019-02-22T16:57:11+0000
Dr. Ahmed is outstanding. I have a major procedure coming up for which she has already scoped my ankle. She is professional and extremely knowledgeable. Her compassion is outmatched and she has gone above and beyond for me. Her staff is excellent and caring. I wouldn’t go anywhere else!read more
Jane Shmane
2019-02-22T14:39:48+0000
Dr. Nilssen and his staff are amazing.
Brandi Tye
2019-02-17T09:09:57+0000
Had collapsed arch in right foot, torn ligament and plate put in right heel. Still have issues with it but much better. Seems my left foot is following same pattern and trying to avoid surgery again. Wearing better shoes and using arch support but still very uncomfortable. Just something I have to live with.read more
Reid Mason
2019-02-17T04:52:52+0000
Dr. Ahmed performed surgery on my ankle 6 weeks ago and I'm so happy with the care I've received from her and her team. She's wonderful! I trust her completely and I'm confident that I'm receiving the best care available anywhere. I'm so glad that physical therapy is now offered on site. I will start PT in a couple days and now I don't have to stress over finding a good therapist to carry out her orders. I feel like I'm being provided with everything I need to be back to 100%! Thank you Dr. Ahmed!read more
Shanee Kathryn
2019-02-13T01:52:04+0000
Dr Ahmed is amazing. She gave my daughter outstanding care! She went to her with complications after a broken Sesamoid bone in her right toe. Dr Ahmed found the problem and also diagnosed plantar fasciitis. Prescribed special shoe inserts and an apparatus to wear at night. My daughter suffered for a year through different doctors. I wish we would have found her sooner, but I am so thankful for her now.read more
Jodi Lamm
2019-02-09T15:50:15+0000
I feel like a valued patient at Dr. Ahmed's office. All my concerns were addressed, and my questions answered. I feel comfortable going into surgery knowing I will be well taken care of. The office staff is friendly and professional, and Dr. Ahmed took the time to explain everything and helped me to understand what would be taking place and what to expect after the surgery. I know I am in good hands.read more
Gail Balon
2019-02-06T02:23:23+0000
Awesome team of professionals!
Bailey Clements
2019-02-03T19:21:04+0000
I absolutely love Dr. Ahmed and the staff here! The office is efficient and beautiful. My care and treatment were top notch and I would definitely refer anyone in need of orthopedic care to them!read more
Robin King Heamstead
2019-02-03T15:42:47+0000
Dr Nilssen and staff welcomed me with open arms as a new patient experiencing complications from a previous surgery. Xrays and an MRI detected the cause of my problem and I had a second surgery done. I had a lot less pain after this surgery and I will recommend their office with the utmost praise and confidence in their care!read more
Lynn Gainey
2019-01-31T11:03:13+0000
Dr. Ahmed is such an awesome person and doctor! The office space and staff are very accommodating and professional. I hope I don’t have anymore injuries, but if I do, Nilssen Orthopedics will be my choice.read more
Michael Montgomery
2019-01-25T19:45:24+0000
Dr. Nilssen and his staff are AMAZING!! Had ankle replacement with another doctor 5 times in 2 years (same doctor). It was getting worse. I couldn’t walk for over 800 days. Went to Dr Nilssen and 2 surgeries later (corrective and repair) and only 103 days later I’m walking! I tell everyone I know about Nilssen Orthopedics. They will never know how much I appreciate what they’ve done for me and how they fixed what had been done. I can go back to living. Thank you!!read more
Penny Price Smith
2019-01-14T01:59:44+0000
Dr. Ahmed and her team were absolutely wonderful start to finish with my foot surgery in 2018. Recovery time was easy and no issues at all. I would highly recommend this group to anyone in need of surgery or other services in the Orthopedic line of medical services. Lori KainGulf Breeze, Fl.read more
Lori Kainer
2019-01-02T19:18:08+0000
Dr. Nilssen and his staff is great. Would highly recommend him. Justin is one in a million...
Rena Lowery Barnes
2018-08-13T20:40:47+0000
I Have been Blessed to have Dr Erik Nilssen in my Life, When I first saw him he looks at my foot and said, its amazing your walking, he said we will come up with a plan, he made no promises but he did say I will get you in a better place, He has done that! He treated me and all his patients with the same care for his MILLION DOLLAR PATIENTS!! I TRULY LOVE THIS BROTHER, JUST WISH I WOULD HAVE MET HIM 25YRS AGO AND 21 SURGERIES AGO!! FEELING BLRSSED! DR ERIK NILSSEN DEFINES #JAZZANDFLOW THAT LIFESTYLEread more
Michael Darrel
2018-07-13T07:53:47+0000
I love Dr. Nilssen and his staff they are family and make you feel as such. And boy can they dress!!! I see you Dr. Nilssen just a sharp as a tac as my grand ma would say. See you in 6 weeks!read more
Kiyasha Battle
2018-06-05T14:41:45+0000
Thank you to Dr. Ahmed and the staff!! My son Gavin had a fractured foot and has healed nicely thanks to the care we received from Dr Ahmed!!! Hope we don’t have to go back but if we do we will use Dr Ahmed!!read more
Valecia King
2018-05-01T21:31:49+0000
No nonsense approach, efficient, professional and friendly
Jean Helgeson Herbers
2018-04-12T19:07:03+0000
I absolutely love Dr. Nilssen and his staff. Justin and Evan went above and beyond after hours to help get a few things situated the night before my surgery. They get you in on time, and don't make you wait! Dr. Nilssen is incredibly knowledgeable and so compassionate. He is the best! I'm so thankful I found his office.read more
Andrea Carter
2018-03-15T01:03:36+0000
Always had the doctors full attention and he took time to talk to me about my injury. Awesome staff as well. Always got a call back and received the care I needed.read more
Lindsey Ann
2018-01-18T17:34:59+0000
I have had a great experience with Nilssen Orthopedics. Friendly staff and Dr Kronlage is absolutely the best hand specialist ever.read more
Diane Blackburn Randolph
2018-01-11T16:56:06+0000
the doc and his staff has been great. the surgery went very well everyone at the hospital was great and very professional. they even called to follow-up with me afterwardsread more
Tammie Hardwick
2018-01-06T18:30:22+0000
Professional. Precise. Knowledgeable—from the office staff to the physicians.
Monica Ard McGee
2018-01-04T18:20:16+0000
I have had a great experience Nilssen Orthopedics. Everyone there has been great with me. Dr. Nilssen did a great job on my foot. If I ever have to have anything else done I will definitely go there!!read more
Becky Lynn Bowers Nagy
2017-11-14T22:27:02+0000
Absolutely the friendliest most advanced staff one could expect from such a well known trusted practice!
Shane Williams
2017-09-26T18:58:39+0000
I wish would found this dr. years ago! By far the best! Not only has he fixed my ankle, he works on your relationship with god�read more
Alena Nary
2017-09-16T19:54:44+0000
Dr. Nilssen & his staff are wonderful & always able to answer any questions!
Marsha Black Parnell
2017-08-28T17:24:58+0000
Today was my first visit to Nilssen Orthopedics! I was very impressed with the care I was given.
Pat Tucker
2017-08-19T02:49:48+0000
Dr. Nilssen is AMAZING!!! After being told I have ankle instability I was scared to death of surgery. He and his staff took great care of me and I am beyond thrilled to say that surgery was a SUCCESS! I would highly recommend him! Thank you so much Dr. Nilssen and staff for everything you did for me. You guys are awesome!read more
Shannon-Shane Joseph
2017-08-17T22:15:55+0000
Takes you serious, listens, and really cares about his patients, the cost, and care. Office staff are wonderful. Andrews Institute where my total ankle replacement was done as outpatient was great.read more
Donna Trease
2017-05-29T22:26:46+0000
My husband has so far had 3 surgeries done by Dr. Nilssen and we have NO complaints! He is a great man and an even greater doctor. He works with an entire team of amazing people who really do care about your injury and healing process. Every appointment is like a visit with family and we absolutely love it. We will continue to work with them through this process and I will ALWAYS recommend him! Thanks guys for being so awesome!!read more
Monet Randle
2017-05-29T06:01:21+0000
Dr. Nilssen is fabulous everyone is so caring and helpful. They are great at answering your questions and will help you in any situation.read more
Katy Boykin
2017-05-28T16:32:56+0000
He was amazing. When i was nervous he helped me calm down, and expressed our. eat options. He treated me like his own kid. He has a way of making you feel like you can express your opinion and I find that rare in a doctor. He works magic!read more
Abby Gallahar
2017-05-11T04:07:44+0000
Dr Nillsen operated on my right foot about 2 years ago and will do so again this week. I have total confidence in his abilities as well as the entire staff ! They put you at ease, and explain everything so that you understand your choices and procedures. I'm lucky to have found this great surgeon!read more
Pepper McKenna
2017-05-08T00:39:36+0000
10 Star Rating !!I wouldn't be walking, if it weren't for Dr. Erik Nilssen and his wonderful, professional, staff.Everyone at Dr. Nilssen's office IS FAMILY !!THANK YOU SO MUCH !!read more
Greg Porch
2017-04-28T23:25:37+0000
Thank you for helping my mom with her foot Neuroma! She has been hurting for years and is now pain-free!
Ellen Jauncey
2017-04-17T23:27:34+0000
The staff is very helpful and take the time to answer your questions and concerns. Dr. Nilssen was extremely confident in my full ankle replacement and was the first Dr I have visited with this much confidence of my full recovery. I am 12 weeks into the recovery process and physical therapy. I am looking forward to my visit again in 8 weeks to see the results.read more
Susan Petty
2017-03-31T21:59:20+0000
Dr Nilssen and his staff are amazing. Will use again. Had another surgery yesterday. The nurses at Andrews Institute are great too. Would not want to go anywhere else.read more
Tammy Correll
2017-03-30T14:49:03+0000
Dr. NIlssen is excellent! I have been to him several times and referred several friends who have been very impressed. His staff is really good about getting an appointment scheduled very promptly. He gets 5 stars from me!read more
Pat Massey Fogg
2017-02-23T18:45:12+0000
Dr. Nilssen removed a neuroma from my foot 1 year ago and more recently had another removed by a different doctor. I had much less post surgical symptoms after the surgery performed by Dr. Nilssen. I will definitely go back to him for the next surgery as I have more neuromas. Dr. Nilssen and his staff are very professional and friendly!!read more
Tara Mosblech
2017-02-14T21:01:07+0000
Being born with clubfeet 39 years ago, I've seen my fair share of orthopedic surgeons. Dr. Nilssen is by far my favorite.read more
Amanda Allen
2017-02-09T18:41:06+0000
Great facility, great doc!!! Can't wait to see his business continue to grow!!
Andrea Hassall Sullivan
2017-01-27T22:29:46+0000
A friend referred me to Dr Nilssen and I'm so thankful. I have had two surgeries, the first in September 2016 and the second in December 2016 for bunion removal. The procedures weren't bad, outpatient. However, I was shocked at how painful the recovery has been. The care and concern shown by Dr Nilssen and his staff has been amazing. I'm glad I had the procedures done and highly recommend Dr Nilssen and his team.read more
Debbie Henderson Ledwell
2017-01-11T23:03:21+0000
This was my second procedure using Dr. Nilsssen, the man knows his business! If you have issue with your feet don't waste your time on other doctors!His new office is amazing! On my first visit I had the MRI on site and procedure scheduled, words can't explain how easy he has made it to get better.read more
Michael Fitts
2016-12-16T21:13:38+0000
Dr Nilssen has preformed two different procedures on my ankle and both times I experienced wonderful care and results. At one time, Dr Nilssen was treating 3 members of my family and 2 very close friends. We were all very pleased with his care and expertise. I would go to NO ONE else! He is the BEST!read more
Virginia Willard
2016-12-15T22:35:29+0000
My friends who are surgeons unanimously referred me to Dr Eric Nilssen, when my ankle was broken. His office arranged my fist appointment on a Monday morning following Vereran's weekend, after I contacted them about 4 pm on a Friday afternoon. Dr. Eric and his staff were spot on. I had issues post surgery with my initial cast and Justin was immediately responsive. Immediately, he had me come into the office and removed the old cast and replaced it with great care. Many of us don't realize the impact of the cast on tour body part and being sensitive to it is very important. I would only go to Dr Nilssen for ankle issues. I'm one week post surgery and will review again once I'm off the cast, crutch and back to normal.read more
Pandora de Balthazar
2016-11-23T21:26:45+0000
Dr. Nilssen and his staff are extremely nice and professional. He is an amazing surgeon and he has great bedside manners. I would recommend Dr. Nilssen and his staff to anyone!read more
Carolyn Karston
2016-11-17T22:29:17+0000
As one of Dr. Nilssen's earlier patients in the area, I have referred many to his care. After several ankle fractures and reconstructions, his expertise has had me walking in 3 inch heels, scuba diving and walking without a limp or pain since he resolved the issues. Extremely smart, innovative and patient focused, I would not recommend another specialist for foot and ankle care. With such vision and commitment to care, start and end your care plan with his team. It will be time and money well spent.read more
Rachael Moore
2016-10-25T20:15:18+0000
Dr. Nilssen operated on my ruptured achilles tendon. First Class service overall. Treated me so well. There is no email or phone call unanswered. I highly recommend Dr. Nilssen and the staff at Andrews Institute for your orthopedic problems.read more
Jacque Wyatt
2016-06-15T23:59:50+0000
He repaired a severed tendon in my son's foot and treated my daughters broken foot. Awesome, super talented, great bedside manners. We highly recommend him. Thanks again for the great care that you provided us.read more
Charles Hantz
2015-11-06T05:49:01+0000
Dr. Nillsen is a hero! He has been blessed with an incredible gift. We are eternally grateful to him and his staff!
Karen Walker Stewart
2015-11-03T23:08:44+0000
Dr. Nilssen is my Surgeon, he is patient, kind and he listens to you and explains everything to you in a way you can understand. I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for an excellent Foot and Ankle Surgeon you can trust.read more
Lisa Walker
2015-10-31T11:17:47+0000
Dr. Nilssen is my foot specialist/surgeon. I am a teacher and I am thankful for the services that he provides. The office has the most updated technology/equipment. The office staff is friendly and timely on scheduling and questions. Great Medical Treatment, Care and Follow Up ! ! Our local area is blessed to have a doctor who is honest, upfront and forthcoming with treatment, outcomes and expectations to all patients. I highly recommend his services as a specialist and surgeon for anyone. I will definitely request Dr. Nilssen for any future surgeries for foot/ankle.read more
Michelle McBride Thomas
2015-10-28T01:38:08+0000
My surgery changed my life. I could never thank him enough.
Melody Jacobi
2015-10-23T20:00:29+0000
