Understanding Podiatry: A Comprehensive Guide to What Podiatrists Do

Exploring the Role of a Podiatrist

A podiatrist, as defined by the American Podiatric Medical Association, is a doctor specializing in the treatment of the foot, ankle, and related leg structures. They are skilled in diagnosing foot and ankle issues, prescribing medications, recommending physical therapy, and performing surgeries specific to these areas.

Different Specializations in Podiatry

Podiatrists often choose to specialize in specific fields, such as sports medicine, pediatric care, radiology, or diabetic foot care.

• Sports Medicine: These podiatrists treat injuries related to sports or physical activities, focusing on the foot and ankle.
• Pediatrics: Pediatric podiatrists cater to younger patients, addressing issues like ingrown toenails, flat feet, athlete’s foot, bunions, and intoed gait.
• Radiology: Specialists in this area use imaging techniques like X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRI scans to diagnose foot, ankle, and lower leg conditions.
• Diabetic Foot Care: Podiatrists with this focus help diabetic patients manage foot-related complications, aiming to prevent severe outcomes like amputation.

Podiatrist vs. Orthopedic Surgeon: Understanding the Differences

While podiatrists focus exclusively on the feet, ankles, and lower legs, orthopedic surgeons deal with the entire musculoskeletal system. Some orthopedic surgeons may have specialized training in foot and ankle care, but it’s not a universal requirement.

Education and Certification of Podiatrists

• Education: Prospective podiatrists attend a 4-year program at a podiatric medical school, followed by a state-specific residency training that includes both podiatric medicine and surgery.
• Certification: To practice, podiatrists must graduate from an accredited school and pass National Board Exams. They may also obtain certifications in orthopedics, primary care, and surgery.

Conditions Treated by Podiatrists

Podiatrists manage a range of issues, including foot and ankle disorders, heel spurs, nail diseases, plantar fasciitis, and perform surgeries related to the foot and ankle.

When to See a Podiatrist

You might need a podiatrist for various reasons, such as foot pain, toenail problems, growths like warts or bunions, ankle or lower leg pain, or upon a recommendation from your primary care physician.

What to Expect at a Podiatry Appointment

• Initial Exam: Your first visit will include a basic examination and medical history review.
• Physical Exam: The podiatrist will conduct a thorough physical exam to check for abnormalities and assess the function of your feet and ankles.
• Diagnosis and Treatment: The podiatrist may diagnose and suggest treatment plans, including medications, therapy, lifestyle changes, or orthotics. Additional tests may be conducted if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are podiatrists doctors? Yes, they are specialized doctors in foot, ankle, and lower leg conditions.
• Common Reasons for Visiting a Podiatrist: People often see a podiatrist for bunions, ingrown toenails, athlete’s foot, and heel pain.
• Do Podiatrists Treat Toenails? Yes, they deal with toenail-related issues.
• Difference Between an Orthopedic Surgeon and a Podiatrist: Orthopedic surgeons treat the entire musculoskeletal system, while podiatrists focus on the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Some orthopedic surgeons may also specialize in foot and ankle care.