Gulf South Foot & Ankle is a podiatry practice with six podiatrists and offices in Metairie, Covington and Prairieville, Louisiana. We care for patients of all ages, from everyday heel and nail problems to foot and ankle surgery.
Dr. Leon Watkins opened his private practice in 1997 and founded Gulf South Foot & Ankle. He is certified in reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, and he is a Certified Wound Specialist.
Beyond treating patients, Dr. Watkins has helped train other podiatrists. He directed the podiatric medical education programs at Tulane and Ochsner, and he wrote a textbook, Watkins' Manual of Foot and Ankle Surgery.
We start with the most conservative treatment that will work, such as footwear changes, custom orthotics or in-office care, and recommend surgery only when other treatments aren't enough.
We also take time to explain what's causing your symptoms and how to care for your feet at home, so problems are less likely to come back.
Our podiatrists treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including heel pain, bunions, hammertoes and ingrown toenails.
Our six podiatrists bring a mix of surgical and medical training. The team includes surgeons certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, podiatrists certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine, a retired Army Major who led podiatry services at Womack Army Medical Center, and a board member of the Louisiana Podiatric Medical Association. Meet our doctors to learn about each one's background and focus areas.
Across our three offices, patients have left more than 500 Google reviews, with ratings from 4.8 to 5.0 stars, as of October 2026.
Patients in Jefferson Parish can see our Metairie team on Harvard Avenue, Northshore patients can visit us in Covington, and patients near Baton Rouge are served by the Prairieville practice.
Meet Our Doctors
