Meet Ronald Hull, D.P.M. –
Hayward and Castro Valley Offices, Podiatry

Thinking on his feet has always come natural to Bay Valley Medical Group’s Podiatrist, Dr. Ronald Hull. The San Leandro native discovered he wanted to be a podiatrist in 9th grade when assigned to research a career for a speech.

“I had mentioned I needed a career topic to my neighbor, and he suggested interviewing our local podiatrist,” said Dr. Hull. “When I learned more about his practice, and how he helped people improve the quality of their lives, and still had time for activities outside of work, I knew that podiatry was the career I wanted to pursue.”

Before entering college, Dr. Hull’s first job was at a zoo, literally. As an employee of the Oakland Zoo, he experienced all walks of life when taking care of the animals. “I did everything from driving the train around the park to bottle-feeding newborn tiger cubs,” recalls Dr. Hull. His favorite animal at the zoo was Teddy, the chimpanzee. “He recognized all the employees and it was clear who he liked and who he didn’t like.”

After completing his undergraduate work at California State University, Hayward, Dr. Hull attended the California College of Podiatric Medicine in San Francisco. He left the Bay Area briefly to complete his residency at the V.A. Medical Center in Tucson, AZ. In 1988 he opened up his own practice in Castro Valley.

“With the implementation of managed care, having a successful private practice was more dependent on one’s business skills than on medical knowledge,” said Dr. Hull. “In 2006, I was recruited by Bay Valley Medical Group and I knew what a great reputation the group had. The timing was right to leave private practice, and I felt honored to join Bay Valley.”

As a podiatrist, Dr. Hull helps children and adults with foot and ankle problems both surgically and non-surgically. He plays an important role in caring for diabetic patients as well as seeing other problems as varied as sports injuries and arthritic pain.

One of the most important things Dr. Hull emphasizes to his patients is proper shoe selection. “People often don’t realize that their foot changes with time and a shoe that worked a few years ago may no longer be adequate,” said Dr. Hull. “Patients are often apprehensive that the only cure for their problem will be surgery, but I recommend nonsurgical treatment first when appropriate.”

Dr. Hull also advises taking care of your entire body– not just your feet.“ What people often forget is that the body functions as a whole. Proper fitting shoes, enough sleep, regular exercise and good nutrition are important because everything is connected.”

One of the things Dr. Hull likes best about being a podiatrist is establishing long-term relationships with patients. “Practicing for over 25 years allows me the opportunity to help them with not only their feet, but with other things as well,” says Dr. Hull. “One of the benefits of working in a multi-specialty group is that if I am concerned about a patient’s overall health, I have numerous colleagues that can be of help to provide the patient with the best care possible.”

When not at work, Dr. Hull is a weekend volunteer ambassador for the Oakland Museum of California. “I enjoy the arts, and being at the museum is a different experience than my day-to-day work,” said Dr. Hull. “It’s always a pleasant surprise when I see my patients attending an exhibit and they recognize me.” His favorite exhibit of the museum is the Dorthea Lange.

Dr. Hull also enjoys his Leica camera and photographing architecture and classic sports cars. A number of Dr. Hull’s photographs are on display at Bay Valley Medical Group’s Hayward office.

Dr. Hull practices podiatry in Bay Valley Medical Group’s Hayward and Castro Valley offices. To schedule and appointment, please call: 510-785-5000.