ALBANY — Dr. Morgan W. Hardy received her undergraduate degree from the State University of New York at Albany and attended Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine
Hardy completed a three-year medical and surgical residency at Cooper University Hospital, a Level One trauma center where she worked with multiple podiatric orthopedic surgeons.
Hardy has experience in foot and ankle oncology services, advanced wound care, and limb salvage procedures and developed expertise in both forefoot and rear-foot surgery, including bunions, hammertoes, and diabetic wound care.
Spotlight: Why did you choose to specialize in podiatry?
Hardy: I always knew I wanted to be a physician. A professor suggested podiatry and I liked the idea of mastering a part of the body – being an expert. I also liked that I would have the chance to draw from other branches of medicine, such as dermatology and orthopaedics. It’s been very rewarding, and I appreciate the variety that comes with seeing a diverse patient base: Children, diabetics, athletes – every day is different.
Spotlight: Athletes? What kind of athletes?
Hardy: Youth athletes, college athletes, professional athletes… I started my career at a podiatry practice that treated the Pennsylvania Ballet and Philadelphia Dance Company. Ballet, like many athletic pursuits, is incredibly demanding on the body. Utilizing a non-surgical, non-drug based approach, I was able to rehabilitate ballerinas and get them back on their feet. It built my confidence early on: If you can make professionals feel better, you can tackle anything that walks through the door.
Spotlight: You can really rehabilitate people without surgery or drugs?
Hardy: Yes, absolutely. My patients experienced tremendous relief through kinesiology taping, traction, and other immobilization techniques. I’m excited to bring my expertise in rehabilitative medicine to Albany Podiatry – and I’m excited to work with MLS Laser Therapy. I didn’t have access to laser therapy at my previous practice, but in my short few months here I’ve been impressed with the results achieved at Albany Podiatry. I’ve already seen laser therapy relieve stubborn conditions that resisted traditional treatments and I’m eager to use the laser in diabetic wound care.
Spotlight: What is MLS Laser Therapy?
Hardy: MLS Laser Therapy is a non-invasive, safe, and effective treatment modality that uses light to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing and soft tissue repair. The laser penetrates into the body without producing heat, allowing faster healing with no known side effects. It’s a great alternative to surgery, or can be used post-surgery to decrease swelling and speed recovery.
Spotlight: What prompted you to relocate to the Capital District?
Hardy: I first explored this area during my time on the SUNY Albany equestrian team and fell in love with it. I enjoy skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, so I’m thrilled to be back in the Adirondacks. I also started running a few years ago and the Capital District seems to be runner-friendly, with many railtrails and local races.