But even if your injury is in the upper or lower leg, a podiatrist may be able to provide treatment. This is because most running injuries begin in the foot. When the foot strikes the ground, the impact is often felt in the knee or the hip. If you have biomechanical imbalances that cause a faulty footstrike, you may need to obtain orthotics to place permanently in your shoes. Orthotics are expensive, however, and you should consider them only as a last resort.
Orthopedists cure problems of the skeletal system, which includes the muscles and ligaments.
Their practice covers the entire body, including the foot. Some orthopedists resist attempts by podiatrists to treat injuries above the ankle, and vice versa. Many orthopedists specialize in certain areas of the body, such as the knee. Many high schools and colleges have trainers connected with teams. Some runners go to chiropractors for care.