What is a podiatrist?

A podiatrist, or doctor of podiatric surgery and medicine, is someone who cares for the feet and ankles. They diagnose and treat problems that affect the feet, ankles, and lower legs. They may be referred to by other names such as podiatric doctors, podiatric surgery or podiatric foot-and-ankle surgeons. The word “podiatrist” is pronounced as “puh-DAIuh-trisst.”

If you have a problem with your feet and ankles, you may visit a foot specialist. You may also see one after another healthcare provider has recommended that you consult a specialist. Some podiatrists work in clinics and hospitals. Some podiatrists are members of multispecialty group or run their own offices.

What is a podiatrist?

Podiatrists can diagnose and treat any foot problem. Physical exams and tests are used to determine issues that cause difficulty in moving or using your feet and ankles. They can also perform surgeries. Podiatrists can treat children and adults alike.

A podiatrist can:

• Find out if you have any foot or ankle problems.
• Order imaging or lab tests.
• Prescribe medication
• You can perform surgery on the foot and ankle.
• Prescribe medical devices such as orthotics (shoe inserts), casts and braces.
• Mobility aids such as canes and walkers are recommended.

They will ask about your general health, medications and symptoms, and how long ago you noticed them. The podiatrist may watch you walk and stand (a gait analysis). You’ll be asked about your favorite shoes. Tell your podiatrist about your work, and any sports or activities you engage in that could put extra stress on your ankles and feet.

What conditions can a podiatrist diagnose and treat?

The following common foot and toe problems can be treated by a podiatrist:

• Ingrown Toenails.
• Deformities of the toe
• Injury to the foot and ankle
• Bunions.
• Plantar warts are a common condition.
• Foot and Ankle Arthritis.
• Foot and toenail skin conditions.
• Diabetic Foot Problems
• Tendonitis.
• Fractures in the ankle and foot.
• Swelling in the lower extremity.
• Leg wounds.
• Foot and Toe Ulcers.

The following foot and ankle conditions can be treated by a podiatrist:

• Sports Injuries.
• High ankle sprains.
• Heel Bursitis.
• Plantar fasciitis.
• Ruptures of the Achilles tendon.

If you have a fracture of your foot or ankle such as:

• Five metatarsal Fractures.
• Toe fractures/ dislocations.
• Lisfranc Fractures.
• Jones fractures.
• Talus Fractures.

Foot care for diabetics

If you have Diabetes, a podiatrist is an important member of your healthcare team. A podiatrist can check your feet to see if there are any signs of diabetes related foot conditions.

Diabetes increases the risk of foot infections and sores. diabetic neuropathy is usually first detected by symptoms on your feet. A podiatrist will:

1. You can also ask about symptoms and your management of blood sugar.
2. Check your feet, toes and legs.
3. Use different tools to feel your feet, toes and legs to see if there is any numbness or if you have lost feeling.

Your podiatrist may:

1. Look for signs of infection such as swelling, discoloration or discharge.
2. You can order tests that take images deeper than the skin, such as X rays.
3. Test for infection by taking a small sample of skin or discharge.

When should I consult a podiatrist for my foot problems?

If you experience any of these symptoms in your ankle or foot, consult a doctor or podiatrist.

• Pain.
• Redness or discoloration.
• Swelling.
• Feelings of warmth or heat.
• Nodules or new growths (on your skin or beneath it).

Before you start any home treatment, consult a podiatrist. Even if the majority of foot problems aren’t life-threatening, it is best to see a professional. You could make a minor problem worse if you self-diagnose and start OTC treatments without consulting a healthcare professional.

Is a podiatrist a doctor?

Yes, podiatrists do practice medicine. Podiatrists are doctors who have earned a doctorate in podiatrics (DPM). They also attend a podiatric medical college. This is the equivalent to being a doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO). Podiatrists can diagnose and treat all foot issues, including foot surgery perth.

How long does it usually take to become a foot doctor?

The DPM takes four years, and many podiatrists also have a four year undergraduate degree.

After earning their DPM degree, most states require podiatrists complete a three-year residency program. Some physicians may also choose to do a fellowship for an additional year.

What is the difference in a podiatrist from an orthopedist

Orthopedists and podiatrists may be different healthcare providers but they treat many of the same issues.

A podiatrist specializes in the care of your feet, ankles, and lower legs.

An Orthopedist is a medical specialist who treats diseases and injuries that affect the Musculoskeletal System, which includes your bones, muscles and joints. Orthopedists can prescribe and administer nonsurgical treatment.

The type of provider that you choose will depend on your injury, condition or issue. You may meet with a Perth podiatrist as well as an orthopedist.

The Foot Focus Podiatry

They can treat any condition that affects the feet, ankles or lower legs. They can help you with short-term problems like ingrown nails, or they can work with you on a long-term basis to manage chronic conditions like diabetes.

If you experience pain or difficulty moving or doing your normal activities, then it is time to visit a podiatrist.