The APMA says roughly three-quarters of Americans will experience foot problems at some point. Women have four times as many problems as men presumably from walking in high heels. In some people sores develop from a foot injury or poorly fitting shoes. People with diabetes or vascular disease may experience serious foot problems because poor circulation and reduced sensation in the foot can hinder wound healing. In severe cases, a nonhealing sore may lead to gangrene and a need for doctors to amputate a part of the limb.
Many people try to self-diagnose and treat their foot problems.
Often by the time a patient sees a physician, the condition has existed for years. Consumers need to know there are groups of physicians who specialize in the treatment of foot and ankle problems. Orthopedic specialists are medical school graduates who have additional training in musculoskeletal conditions. Some orthopedic physicians specialize in foot and ankle problems. Podiatrists spent their first two years studying the same curriculum as medical students.