Dr. Joel Zarzuela, DPM

Stafford, VA
Rappahannock Foot and Ankle Specialists

Dr. Joel Zarzuela DPM

Dr. Joel Zarzuela is distinguished in the medical community for his deep commitment to providing exceptional care. His empathy and dedication to his patients' well-being have made him a highly respected and beloved physician in the field of podiatry.

Dr. Zarzuela's illustrious career in podiatric medicine began after he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. His quest for specialized knowledge led him to the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, where he earned his Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine in 1992, distinguishing himself with both his academic proficiency and clinical acumen.

Further honing his expertise, Dr. Zarzuela completed a rigorous residency in podiatric medicine and surgery at the renowned Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. This prestigious program equipped him with the skills to excel in the most challenging and complex medical and surgical cases. In 1994, upon completing his residency, he demonstrated such exceptional skill and knowledge that he was invited to stay on at Massachusetts General Hospital as an attending physician, contributing significantly to their residency program.

Dr. Zarzuela's career continued to flourish as he ventured into private practice in the Boston Metropolitan area in 1997, where he offered comprehensive podiatric care. His reputation for excellence in patient care grew, but in 2001, a desire to return to his roots led him and his family back to the Maryland-D.C. area.

In the period that followed, he established a thriving private practice in Stafford, Virginia, prior to becoming a part of our esteemed team at Rappahannock Foot and Ankle Specialists in 2007. His inclusion in our practice has greatly enhanced the breadth and depth of expertise available to our patients.

Dr. Zarzuela holds membership with several professional bodies, including the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), and the Virginia Podiatric Medical Association (VPMA). His board certification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery underscores his extensive knowledge and skill in foot surgery.

His affiliations with Stafford Hospital Center and Mary Washington Hospital, alongside privileges at Surgi-Center of Central Virginia and Fredericksburg Ambulatory Surgery Center, allow him to extend his services to a broad patient base. At our Stafford location, Dr. Zarzuela is especially known for his proficiency in the use of diagnostic ultrasound for foot and ankle conditions, his innovative approaches to diabetic wound care, and his expertise in forefoot reconstructive surgery.

The caliber of Dr. Zarzuela's care was officially recognized when he was named one of Northern Virginia Magazine's Top Doctors in 2017, an accolade that speaks volumes about his professionalism and the high esteem in which his patients and peers hold him. With his unparalleled compassion and dedication to his patients, Dr. Joel Zarzuela truly embodies the ideals of a great and caring doctor.