Dr. Jacob H. Nelson
Board-Certified Podiatrist | Foot & Ankle Surgeon
Dr. Jacob H. Nelson is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He brings a solution-focused, patient-first philosophy to Sole Foot & Ankle Specialists, blending advanced surgical training with a strong emphasis on conservative care. Dr. Nelson is known for helping patients find relief through practical, nonoperative treatments whenever possible, with surgery as a confident next step when needed.
A fifth-generation Arizona native, Dr. Nelson grew up in Mesa. He completed his undergraduate studies in Biology at Brigham Young University and earned his doctorate at Midwestern University’s Arizona School of Podiatric Medicine. He went on to complete his surgical residency at Tucson Medical Center, where he gained extensive experience in reconstructive surgery, trauma repair, sports medicine, wound care, and diabetic limb salvage.
Fluent in Spanish, with what he describes as a “funny Argentine accent”, Dr. Nelson enjoys caring for patients of all ages and backgrounds. His approachable, down-to-earth style helps patients feel empowered and involved in their care plans.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Nelson enjoys fixing and building things around the house, often spending more time (and money) on DIY projects than it would cost to hire a pro, but he insists that learning new skills is half the fun. He also enjoys leatherworking and anything that brings him closer to his wife Chelsea and their three kids.
One of their most cherished (and chaotic) traditions is building massive cardboard and blanket forts that sprawl across the entire house. For Dr. Nelson, it’s not just about the fort, it’s about the memories they build inside them.
That same authentic, playful spirit carries over into his practice, where he takes pride in building genuine connections with patients and their families, creating a welcoming environment rooted in trust, compassion, and long-term care.
