Meet Dr LaFontant | Foot & Ankle of Iowa
Rudolph LaFontant, DPM
Meet Dr. Rudolph "Dr. Rudy" LaFontant, DPM
Dr. Rudolph "Dr. Rudy" LaFontant is the founder of the Foot and Ankle Institute of Iowa and is a podiatric physician dedicated to providing comprehensive medical and surgical care of the foot and ankle. With decades of clinical experience, Dr. LaFontant is committed to helping patients of all ages achieve healthier, more active lives through personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that focus on identifying and addressing the underlying cause of their condition—not simply managing symptoms.
Originally from New York City, Dr. LaFontant began his academic journey at Fordham University in Bronx, New York, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He continued his education in the Graduate Program in Pathology at New York Medical College in Valhalla, New York, before pursuing his passion for podiatric medicine.
He earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from the College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, now part of Des Moines University in Des Moines, Iowa. Following graduation, Dr. LaFontant completed an extensive podiatric medicine and surgery residency at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Leavenworth, Kansas, where he received comprehensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of complex foot and ankle disorders.
Throughout his career, Dr. LaFontant has cared for a diverse patient population in a variety of clinical settings. He gained extensive experience managing diabetic foot complications while practicing at the Diagnostic & Critical Care Medicine Clinic at Mercy Medical Plaza in Des Moines. He has also served on Medical Executive Committees for several skilled nursing facilities, providing oversight and specialized lower extremity care for residents.
Dr. LaFontant has had the privilege of providing podiatric care to several Native American communities, including members of the Navajo, Meskwaki, and Winnebago tribes. These experiences have strengthened his commitment to delivering compassionate, individualized care to every patient, regardless of age or background.
A lifelong learner, Dr. LaFontant continually pursues advanced education and training to remain at the forefront of podiatric medicine. His clinical interests include regenerative medicine, minimally invasive treatment options, advanced wound care, diabetic limb preservation, office-based surgical procedures, laser therapies, functional medicine, and innovative technologies that improve patient outcomes.
Patients appreciate Dr. LaFontant's approachable personality, thorough evaluations, and commitment to involving them in every step of their treatment plan. His philosophy is centered on educating patients, encouraging open communication, and developing customized solutions that promote long-term health rather than temporary relief.
When he is not caring for patients, Dr. LaFontant enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, cooking, attending live music events, playing drums, dancing, and continually exploring new interests that enrich both his personal and professional life.
Fun Facts About Dr. Rudy
- One of Iowa's pioneering African American podiatrists and among the first to practice in the state.
- Featured in Urban Experience magazine.
- Speaks Spanish and French Creole.
- Met John Lennon of The Beatles and visited his home.
- Played pickup basketball with NBA Hall of Famer Julius "Dr. J" Erving.
- Once asked Madonna to dance—and received a gracious "no."
- Former DJ in New York City, including a concert featuring LL Cool J and other artists.
- Enjoys playing drums and has performed at Casey's Center (formerly Wells Fargo Arena).
- Winner of Farrell's Extreme Bodyshaping transformation program.
- Has trained in boxing, Tae Kwon Do, Kung Fu, and Judo.
- Passionate about social dancing, including Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue, Brazilian Zouk, and line dancing.
- Played hockey during high school.
- An avid reader and home cook.
- Previously cultivated bonsai trees and hopes to return to the hobby.
- Loves attending concerts and experiencing live music.