What Is a Podiatrist? | Enlighten Me What Is a Podiatrist? Comment × A podiatrist is a medical doctor (Doctor of Podiatric Medicine or DPM) who has completed medical school specific to podiatry and a two-year residency. To understand the foot, podiatrists must receive training in biomechanics, radiography, sports medicine , pharmacology, dermatology , orthopedics , and surgery. Podiatrists do not earn an M.D. or D.O. degree, but rather a D.P.M., which allows them to practice both general medicine and specialized foot care. Podiatrists may elect a specialty in primary care, podiatric surgery, or orthopedics. Orthopedic podiatrists diagnose and treat problems of the foot, ankle, and lower leg while surgeons of podiatry are qualified to operate. Podiatrists are the foremost authority on the human foot and ankle, which consist of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 ligaments and tendons.

The nerves, blood vessels, soft tissue, and muscles that link these structures are the support system for most every upright movement – from running, jumping, bicycling, and playing tennis, to walking and standing still. Podiatrists often see patients with foot pain, plantar fasciitis, blisters, heel spurs, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, warts, corns, calluses and peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes. It is important for patients who experience peripheral neuropathy to see a podiatrist regularly for checkups due to the lack of sensation often experienced with this affliction. Injury or infection of the foot can be a serious ailment for a person who has diabetes, leading to a skin or bone infection (osteomyelitis), amputation, and even death. A podiatrist can treat any of the following conditions: Discoloration on the feet – Redness may be a sign of gout, blue or purple may indicate a vein problem, and whiteness can evidence a decreased blood flow. Pain that worsens with activity – A stress fracture will continue to worsen with weight. Early treatment of a stress fracture will help the foot to heal more quickly.

If one foot looks noticeably different from the other – Broken bones, tendon rupture, tendonitis, or infection may be the culprit. Swelling in both feet – This may indicate lymphedema. Numbness, tingling and burning – These symptoms may be signs of neuropathy. Neuropathy is a symptom of diabetes and needs to be carefully monitored. Severe foot pain – Severe pain can be caused by infection, broken bones, deep vein thrombosis, or compartment syndrome. A changed mole – A mole that changes, has an irregular shape, or bleeds should be examined for melanoma. Flattened arch – A flattened arch could indicate tendon dysfunction, where the bones of the foot are not aligned. For any type of foot problem or concern about the feet, it is wise to seek medical attention from a primary care physician or podiatrist. Referrals are made by primary doctors for specific problems of the feet. It is wise to select a qualified and reputable podiatrist who is certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association or the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. Make an appointment and find out if you feel comfortable letting this person handle your healthcare. Share What is a Podiatrist?

| Education & Professional Development | APMA What is a Podiatrist? Learn More About Today's Podiatrist What Is a Podiatrist? A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM), also known as a podiatric physician or surgeon. Podiatrists diagnose and treat conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. What Are the Qualifications of a Podiatrist? Podiatrists are the most qualified doctors to care for your feet. They complete four years of training in a podiatric medical school and three years of hospital residency training. This training is similar to that of other doctors. Podiatrists can specialize in many fields, including surgery, sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics (children), and diabetic care. Are Podiatrists Board Certified? Podiatrists can earn board certification with advanced training, clinical experience, and by ultimately taking an exam. The American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and the American Board of Podiatric Medicine are the certifying boards for the field. Look for the “DPM” Feet are complex anatomical structures, all-in-one stabilizers, shock absorbers, and propulsion engines that are instrumental to overall health and well-being. They require expert care.

Be sure you’re seeing the most qualified health-care professional to treat your feet by looking for the letters “DPM” after his or her name. The DPM means a physician has completed years of rigorous foot and ankle training in podiatric medical school and hospital-based residency training, making him or her uniquely qualified to care for this part of the body. Specialty Areas in Podiatric Medicine : About the Program : School of Podiatric Medicine : Barry University, Miami Shores, Florida Specialty Areas in Podiatric Medicine Specialty Areas in Podiatric Medicine After earning the DPM degree, you will continue your preparation as a podiatric physician by pursuing a residency program. Your residency will enable you to develop a specialization in one or more areas of podiatric medicine, thus increasing your options for practice. The areas of specialization within the field of podiatric medicine include: Podiatric Orthopedics Treatment of imperfect foot and leg structure and function through the use of special footwear, orthotic and prosthetic devices, and physical therapy. Podiatric Primary Care Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of podiatric conditions as related to the total family health care environment. Podiatric Sports Medicine The prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of lower extremity disorders in athletes.

Barry University sponsors the first accredited fellowship in Podiatric Sports Medicine. Podiatric Surgery Utilization of modern operative procedures for the alleviation of various foot and ankle problems. Podopediatrics Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of children's foot and leg problems. Wound Care and Management Care and prevention of wounds, ulcers, and injuries of the lower extremities, especially related to diabetes and other chronic systemic diseases. What is Podiatry? Podiatry is the treatment of disorders of the foot and ankle. A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine. While the podiatrist does undergo a four year post-graduate training program similar to medical school, podiatrists (DPM) differ from the M.D. and D.O. trained physicians . Physicians who complete medical school are then able to pursue the specialty of their choice in residency while graduates of podiatry school are able to pursue a career in the care of feet and ankles.

Podiatrists, who are doctors but not physicians , receive extensive training in the anatomy and physiology of the human body, but they are specifically trained to treat diseases and problems with the feet and ankles, and may not pursue a residency in other areas of medicine despite their extensive education in all of systems of the human body. Depending on the nature of their residency training, which are typically three years in length, podiatrists can perform a wide variety of treatments and surgeries on the foot and ankle. Treatments provided by podiatrists range from non-invasive shoe inserts and orthotics, to the treatment of ingrown toenails, preventative diabetic foot care and surgical procedures. Podiatrists often specialize. One may specialize in care that can be provided in the office setting, while another may prefer surgical medicine. Some may specialize in non-invasive treatment of foot pain while another may treat primarily diabetic patients and their related foot issues. Also Known As: foot doctor, feet doctor, podiatric, podiatrist Examples: Jane began to see a podiatrist after she was diagnosed with heel spurs and was told that custom orthotics might improve her ability to walk without pain. Continue Reading Why A Podiatrist?

— California Podiatric Medical Association College of Podiatric Medicine at Western University of Health Sciences If you are looking for a podiatric surgeon, orthopedist or primary care specialist, find out if the doctor is board certified. That distinction means the doctor has completed a prescribed period of residency in a chosen specialty, has passed oral and written examinations and has handled a minimum number of cases. About 36 percent of the 13,800 podiatrists in the U.S. are board certified. Professional Affiliations. Is the podiatrist affiliated with a hospital, either as a staff member or as an attending physician, a title that carries with it admitting privileges. A teaching position at a medical school is further indication that a doctor is both well trained and up-to-date. Practice Arrangements and Location. Take into account the doctor's location and office hours too. If these aren't convenient, you may put off necessary visits. Personal Manner. Once called "bedside manner," a doctor's interpersonal skills and ability to communicate are important. In addition, a doctor should treat you like a partner in your own health care by explaining diagnostic procedures, test results and medications and by answering your questions.

You may also prefer a doctor who shares your cultural background and/or speaks your native language. To evaluate a doctor's personal manner, you will have to schedule an initial visit. MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT You can show a desire to be a decision-making partner in your medical care by participating fully in your visit. Be prepared. If it is your first visit, bring a summary of your medical history, including childhood diseases, chronic illnesses, hospitalizations, medications and a health history of your parents. Also bring reports of relevant diagnostic tests, such as x-rays and blood workups (which you can request from your former doctor). Tell the podiatrist everything about your health and illness. Withholding information may result in an inaccurate diagnosis or inappropriate treatment. For example, diabetes and arthritis can have serious effects on your feet and ankles. If you have either of those conditions, let the podiatrist know immediately. Ask precise questions. The best way to get advice that relates to you, as opposed to the population in general, is to be specific: "How do I..." or "What is the best way for me to..." Take notes. Many patients can't remember their discussions with a doctor once they've left the office.

A forgotten bit of information or a recommendation could change the course of your treatment. Remember that you and your doctor are a team. Many patients sabotage their treatments by failing to follow the doctor's instructions. Skipping doses of medication, or getting back to your exercise routine sooner than recommended can delay healing or further jeopardize your health. On the other hand, if a treatment regimen doesn't seem to be working or is making you feel worse, don't hesitate to call the doctor so that appropriate changes can be made. Remember, it is your body and your feet. You are best equipped to describe how you are feeling. FOOT AILMENTS THAT DOG US Are your feet killing you? Well then, you may be all too familiar with ailments such as athlete's foot, calluses and corns, hammer toes, ingrown toenails and bunions. Sometimes home remedies can soothe sore feet, but if problems persist, don't continue to "doctor" yourself. The American Podiatric Association points out that self-treatment often turns a minor problem into a major one. Here are some of the common conditions that plague us. Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that usually starts between the toes or on the bottom of the feet.

The fungus can, however, spread to other parts of the body. Signs of athlete's foot include itchy, scaly skin, and thick, white nails. Ward off infection by washing your feet daily with soap and warm water; drying carefully, especially between the toes; and changing shoes and hose regularly to decrease moisture. A podiatrist may prescribe medication or recommend nail surgery. Blisters are caused by skin friction. Don't break them because you may create an opening for bacteria. Instead, apply a moleskin pad for protection, keep your feet as dry as possible and wear thick socks for extra padding. When the blister pops, leave the broken skin in place, but keep the area clean and apply an antibiotic cream. Cover it with a sterile gauze bandage. Bunions are misaligned big toe joints that can become swollen and tender. The deformity causes the first joint of the big toe to slant outward, and the second joint to angle toward the other toes. Bunions tend to run in families, but the tendency can be aggravated by shoes that are too narrow in the forefoot and toe. Wearing wide shoes and protective pads can ease the pressure, but surgery is often required to correct the problem.

Corns and calluses are caused by underlying bone problems that cause excessive irritation. Where shoes repeatedly rub, dead skin cells pile up, creating calluses on the bottom of the foot and corns on the toes. The American Podiatric Association warns that you should never attempt to cut or dissolve corns or calluses at home. Your podiatrist can trim or protect them if they become painful, but they usually grow back unless the underlying problem is corrected surgically. Foot odor results from excessive perspiration from the more than 250,000 sweat glands in the foot. Daily hygiene is essential to keep feet clean. Air out shoes daily to evaporate moisture, and change your socks a couple of times a day. Foot powders, antiperspirants, and soaking in vinegar and water can help lessen odor too. Hammertoes buckle into a claw-like position and corns form at the bent joint when these toes rub against the tops of shoes. Claw toes are the result of an inherited muscle imbalance, too-small shoes or a bunion-bearing big toe that slants inward. Usually, the second toe bends into this unnatural shape, but any of the other three smaller toes can be affected as well.

Square, open-toed, or prescription shoes may increase comfort. Ingrown nails result when the corners or sides of nails dig painfully into the skin. They are frequently caused by improper nail trimming, but also by shoe pressure, injury, fungus infection, heredity, and poor foot structure. Use toenail clippers to trim nails with a slightly rounded edge. Leave nails slightly longer than the end of the toe and don't cut into the corners. Plantar Neuroma is a condition that occurs when two metatarsal bones -- most frequently the third and fourth ones -- rub together and irritate a nerve. The resulting enlargement of the nerve can produce pain, burning, tingling, or numbness between the toes and in the ball of the foot. Conservative treatment includes orthotic devices (shoe inserts that help realign the foot and distribute body weight evenly) and/or cortisone injections, but surgical removal of the growth is sometimes necessary. Warts are caused by a virus that enters the skin through small cuts. Children, especially teenagers, tend to be more susceptible to warts than adults. Most warts are harmless and benign, though they are unsightly and may be painful. Warts often come from walking barefoot on dirty surface.

A podiatrist can dissolve warts painlessly with topical acid treatments or remove them surgically. Heel pain is usually caused by a walking stride that exerts excessive stress on the heel bone. Discomfort can also result from poorly made shoes, obesity, a stress fracture of the heel bone, bruises of the fat pad under the heel, or a disease such as rheumatism or gout. To ease heel pain try wearing well-fitted shoes with soft, shock-absorbent soles. Orthotic devices may absorb some of the impact on the heels. A doctor may also prescribe nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, or suggest applying heat and/or cold to the heel. Surgery may be necessary as a last resort if heel pain is severe. Heel spurs refer to heel pain due to bone irritation. A ligament or muscle may be pulled from the heel. If cortisone, taping, and orthotics don't work, surgery may be necessary. IF THE SHOE FITS, WEAR IT Your feet bear the brunt of all the time and pressure you put on them every day, but proper footwear can reduce foot problems.

Children, women, men, and athletes all have different shoe requirements, which vary considerably across a wide range of activities. 1.Children's Shoes. When a child begins to walk, shoes are generally not necessary. Allowing an infant to go shoeless indoors, permits the foot to grow normally, develop strength, and aid the grasping ability of the toes. Once children start wearing shoes, it's necessary to change sizes frequently to allow room for growth. Though fit is the most important consideration, function is also critical. Footwear with crepe or rubber soles helps cushion impact better than dressier, thinner-soled shoes. 2. Women's Shoes. Many women's foot problems result from high-heeled shoes (footwear with heels of more than two inches). Podiatrists believe high heels are orthopedically unsound and cause muscle imbalances and postural problems. To relieve the abusive effects of high heels, women can try the following: Limit the time heels are worn, alternating them with good quality sneakers or flats for part of the day. Vary heel height. Use a shorter heel the day after you wear a high one. Pick the right shoe for a particular activity. This is probably as important a factor in the choice of shoes as any.

So, for example, if you'll be doing a lot of walking, wear comfortable flats with adequate support. Perhaps the best shoe for women, from an orthopedic viewpoint, is a walking shoe with laces (not a slip-on), and a relatively wider heel with a rigid and padded heel counter, no more than a half or three-quarters of an inch in height. 3. Men's Shoes. The best shoes for men are good quality oxfords, shoes ordinarily associated with wing-tip or cap designs. Also suitable are slip-ons, dressy loafers, and low, dress boots. 4. Shoes for work. Men and women should match the shoes they wear to the type of work they do. Office workers should have three to five pairs of shoes for business hours -- general oxfords and loafers for men; pumps and oxfords for women. Cushion-soled shoes that give good support are essential for those who spend most of their working days on their feet. Workers in heavy industry need protective foot gear, such as safety shoes and boots, which are waterproof or water-resistant and have insulated steel toe caps and soles made of materials that don't conduct electricity and help prevent injuries or reduce the severity of injuries that do occur.

5. Shoes for Athletics. Different sports activities call for specific footwear to protect feet and ankles. Sports-specific athletic shoes are a wise investment for serious athletes, though perhaps a less critical consideration for the weekend or occasional athlete. Probably an even more important consideration is the condition of the shoe -- don't wear any sports shoes once they start to wear down. Podiatrists note that athletic footwear should be fitted to hold the foot in the position that's most natural to the movement involved. For example, a running shoe is built to accommodate the impact that concentrates on the forefoot, while a tennis shoe is made to give relatively more support to the ankles and permits sudden stops and turns. Because of the many intricate maneuvers involved in sports and the added strain they put on the feet, athletic shoes should be carefully fitted with just as much attention as everyday street shoes. It is widely accepted that a regular regimen of walking is physically rewarding. Here again, footwear with proper support is most important. Choose a good quality, lightweight walking shoe with breathable upper materials, such as leather or nylon mesh. The heel counter should be firm, the heel positioned closer to the ground for walking stability. The front or forefoot area should have flexibility, and plenty of room for the toes to move around.

Also important: cushioned heels and soles for resilience on hard surfaces and traction on slippery ones. SHOE-BUYING TIPS: GO FOR THE AHHHH, NOT THE OUCH Have your feet measured while you're standing. Always try on both shoes, and walk around the store. Since feet are seldom precisely the same size, always buy for the larger foot. Don't buy shoes that need a "break-in" period -- shoes should be comfortable immediately. Don't rely on the size of your last pair of shoes. Your feet do get larger, and lasts (shoemakers' sizing molds) also vary. Shop for shoes later in the day; feet tend to swell during the day, and it's best to be fitted when they are at their largest. Be sure that shoes fit well -- front, back, and sides -- to distribute weight. Be sure the widest part of your foot corresponds to the widest part of the shoe. Select a shoe with a leather upper, stiff heel counter, appropriate cushioning, and flexibility at the ball of the foot. Buy shoes that don't pinch your toes, either at the tips, or across the toe box.

Try on shoes while you're wearing the same type of socks or stockings you expect to wear with the shoes. Health Pages. Publication: Step in the Right Direction: Say No to Foot Pain. 1998. What is Podiatrist: An Overview Definition and Overview A Podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in podiatric medicine, a branch of medicine dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, or surgery of the feet, ankles, and the lower extremities. Podiatrists are sometimes referred to as "foot doctors." In some countries, podiatrists specialize only in the diagnosis and treatment of foot conditions, but without using surgery . However, podiatrists who hold a title of Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M) are also trained in surgical treatments. Podiatrists also have specialties such as: Dermatological Podiatrist – Podiatrists who specialize in skin conditions that affect the foot such as dermatitis, corns, fungus, warts, and calluses. Gerontological Podiatrist – Podiatrists who specialize in the treatment of foot conditions that affect the elderly including arthritis, circulatory disorders, nerve issues, and diabetes. Podiatric Diabetologist – Podiatrists that focus on foot conditions brought about by diabetes.

Podopaediatrics – specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of foot conditions that affect children. Podiatric Oncologists – Podiatrists who focus on foot conditions that involve cancer. General Podiatric Physician – Specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of general conditions of the foot Consultant Podiatric Surgeons – Podiatrists who are qualified to perform surgeries Podiatric Sports Physician – Specializes in sports-related foot conditions. What do podiatrists do? Podiatrists, depending on their specialties in the field, offer a wide range of medical services. However, these services are confined only to the diagnosis and treatment of foot diseases or related conditions, such as foot injuries . When diagnosing a condition, the podiatrists may perform a physical examination, compile a medical history, and analyze an x-ray or MRI. When the condition has been determined, the podiatrist will decide on a method of treatment. This can include performing surgeries, prescribing medicines, setting fractures, prescribing custom-made shoes, or ordering physical therapy sessions for the patient. Podiatrists are often consulted to provide treatment to high-risk patients, such as the elderly who may be at risk of losing their feet or lower limbs due to amputation. How are podiatrists trained?

Training for podiatric medicine differs from country to country, but it will usually include a college course of not less than four years. In the US, the candidate must attend a podiatric medical school. Once the 4-year podiatric course is completed, the candidate will undergo a surgical-based residency. Completion of studies and residency will qualify the candidate for board certification. The most common boards providing specialty certification are: American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics and Primary Podiatric Medicine American Board of Podiatric Surgery American Board of Podiatric Medical Specialties Podiatrist versus Orthopedist If you have a problem with your feet, it could be difficult to decide whether to see a podiatrist or an orthopedist . An orthopedist also deals with any condition involving the bones to include injuries or treatment of diseases. There are many similarities between the two professions than there are differences. The two professions are similar in the length of education. Both a podiatrist and an orthopedist need to complete four years of medical school. A podiatrist will receive a title of DPM while an orthopedist will be an MD. Both professions will then need to complete a surgical residency.

However, you should note that a podiatrist specializes in conditions that involve the feet and lower extremities. This could be a factor in making your decision. Orthopedists may choose to specialize in the foot, and these programs will take around six months to 1 year to complete. When it comes to board certifications, there is no certification in a foot specialty in orthopedics; the board certification is only on general orthopedics. Despite the similarities and differences, your decision should be based primarily on which doctor you can trust. As in any medical specialty, there are good podiatrists and those that excel in the field. This is the same in orthopedics. If you have reasons to trust one over the other, you should consider those when making your choice. In some cases, your primary care physician will decide whether to refer you to a podiatrist or an orthopedist. If this were the case, you would then need to trust the decision of your physician. References: American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine Share This Information: What does a Podiatrist do? What does a Podiatrist do? ★ Overview Requirements Analytics Salary MarketJob Market Jobs Education What is a Podiatrist?

Comments A podiatrist is a foot doctor who practices podiatric medicine, which is a branch of science devoted to the diagnosis, treatment and study of medical disorders of the foot, ankle, lower leg and lower back. In the U.S. and Canada, podiatry is practiced as a specialty. In some countries the foot doctor is known as a chiropodist or podologist. Specialized foot care is a profession that dates back to ancient Egypt, seen through tomb carvings. Tradition links Hippocrates' development of the scalpel as a consequence of his desire to remove corns and calluses from his patients' feet. Throughout history kings and presidents alike have used the services of foot doctors to literally keep them up and working on their feet. Some have viewed podiatrists as not being 'real' doctors because they treat seemingly minor ailments like bunions. In truth, however, foot care is recognized around the world as an essential part of overall good health. How to Become a Podiatrist Think you might be interested in becoming a Podiatrist? Here are your next steps. Take the Sokanu Career Test Would you make a good podiatrist?

Sokanu's free assessment reveals how compatible you are with a career across 5 dimensions! View all jobs → What does a Podiatrist do? The feet-related duties of a podiatrist include performing a thorough assessment exam, and listening to patient concerns regarding their feet and lower legs. A diagnosis is made by performing a physical exam, by using laboratory tests such as blood tests or urinalysis, with x-rays, and through other methods. The podiatrist treats common foot troubles such as bunions, as well as complex foot and ankle surgeries such as the removal of bone spurs. They also prescribe medications and provide follow-up care instructions and advice. Podiatrists will also prescribe medical devices such as orthotics and arch supports in order to improve mobility and treat lower leg ailments and pain. Some common foot and lower leg ailments treated by a podiatrist: ingrown toenails manual dexterity detail oriented Foot deformities, either birth defects like clubfoot, or problems caused by neglect or damage, are also treated by a foot doctor, along with any feet issues causing abnormal posture or gait. Many times larger health problems, such as arthritis or diabetes, are often diagnosed through symptoms first seen in the feet.

Diabetic neuropathy is a condition in which cuts or sores on the feet are not felt and can become infected or muscle damage occurs. In these cases the podiatrist will refer patients to other physicians or specialists. There are a number of subspecialties in the field of podiatry. Podiatric sports medicine treats foot and ankle injuries commonly occurring among athletes . Pediatric care podiatrists treat children, including those with congenital foot defects. Advanced surgical podiatrists focus on advanced surgical techniques, including foot and ankle reconstruction after injury. There are also specialties in geriatrics, dermatology, orthopedics, vascular medicine, diabetes and other areas. Find your perfect career Would you make a good podiatrist? Sokanu's free assessment reveals how compatible you are with a career across 5 dimensions! Take the free career test How to Become a Podiatrist In the U.S. and Canada, podiatrists must earn a four-year Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree and complete medical and surgical residency. This also involves getting a three- or four-year bachelor's degree first, with courses in biology , chemistry , physics , english, and math. An MCAT exam is required for admission to the DPM program.

The first part of the DPM program includes instruction and laboratory work in the sciences: anatomy, pathology, microbiology , pharmacology , biochemistry, and physiology . The second part is primarily clinical practice and practical experience, including surgery. In total the educational component takes anywhere from eight to eleven years to complete. There are nine colleges in the U.S. and one in Canada offering the DPM. State licensing is also required, and in many parts of Canada the profession is governed by legislation. Podiatrists are expected to stay current with advances in podiatric medicine, reading medical journals, and attending conferences. Some podiatrists earn a specialty designation and may become recognized experts in a particular area of foot treatments or ailments. What is the workplace of a Podiatrist like? Most podiatrists are self-employed in general practice and can set their own work hours. Others work as part of group practice in a clinic or in a hospital. For patient convenience some extended hours may be involved, but standard office hours are generally followed. Podiatrists can work in health maintenance organizations, for the government or the military, and at universities or academic science and research centers.

Part of the job involves standing while conducting examinations, but there is also a fair amount of desk work and paperwork to be completed. If a podiatrist owns his or her own practice, a number of business-related activities are also required, including hiring employees, managing inventory, and dealing with medical insurance providers. Many opportunities exist for those interested in relocating, since podiatry is a recognized profession in many countries around the world. Videos Podiatrist Vs. Orthopedist | Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Do Not Fill This Out Podiatrist Vs. Orthopedist I am often asked what the difference between podiatry and orthopedics is. I always reply, it depends who’s answering. Numerous types of healthcare providers evaluate and treat conditions of the feet. These include podiatrists, orthopedic surgeons, primary care physicians, and physical therapists. The relationship between podiatrists and orthopedists is something like that of two politicians who claim to really, really respect each other, which each secretly believes in their own superiority. For most conditions, the question of which kind of doctor to see is largely a matter of whom you feel most comfortable with.

Although podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons treat many of the same conditions, their training is different. There is essentially a lot of overlap in treatments, but orthopedists point out that they are able to treat the patient as a whole, not just form the ankle down. Many patients swear by podiatrist however, believing that they are better at offering pain relief and trying conservative measures first. Current statistics show that overall, 39% of patients choose a podiatrist while only 15% choose an orthopedist. The remaining amount is treated by family doctors and others. There are more orthopedic surgeons than podiatrists but more podiatrists than foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons. What is a Podiatrist? A podiatrist is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). A podiatrist has specialized training to treat disorders of the foot and ankle. Currently, they must complete the following formal education: Four years of undergraduate school Four years at an accredited podiatric medical school Three to four years of only foot and ankle surgical residency training They receive medical training plus specialized training on the foot, ankle, and lower leg.

They are also extremely well trained in biomechanics and proper foot balance and therefore well equipped to fit orthotics, custom shoes, and a variety of braces. Podiatrists study medicine as it relates to feet, during the entire course of study. They spend their entire surgical residency training on the foot and ankle, often with multiple podiatric and orthopedic surgeons. Therefore, they have more years of study that is focused specifically on feet. A podiatrist can treat only foot and ankle conditions , with a few exceptions in some remote areas. Podiatrists are able to treat disorders conservatively as well as surgically. A podiatrist is probably more inclined to try to treat conditions conservatively and would likely recommend a surgical approach only if other methods have not been successful. In fact, some podiatrists do not do surgery or are not trained in the latest surgical techniques. Others that are well trained perform complicated reconstructive surgeries. All podiatrists must pass state board examinations before they are licensed to practice. Some podiatrists are solo practitioners while some practice in large specialty groups. Lately, more and more podiatrists are moving into practice with large healthcare clinics and primary care groups. What is an Orthopedic Surgeon?

An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who treats the entire musculoskeletal system, not just the lower extremity. Orthopedics is the medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of injuries and diseases in your musculoskeletal system. While some orthopedics practice general orthopedics, some specialize in treating the foot and ankle, hand, shoulder, spine, hip, knee, or pediatrics and sports medicine. Some foot and ankle problems originate from your knee, hip, or lower back. Foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons are able to effectively treat complex lower extremity conditions in conjunction with the rest of your body. They specifically evaluate foot problems but can also review other orthopedic issues that may be contributing to foot and ankle pain. Currently, they must complete the following formal education: Four years of undergraduate school Four years at an accredited medical school Five years of generalized orthopedic surgical residency training Possible additional one year fellowship dedicated to treatment of foot and ankle disorders Orthopedic surgeons have a better general medical background, but less time specifically learning about feet. All orthopedic surgeons must pass a national medical licensing examination.

An orthopedic surgeon may also choose to complete one year advanced fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery. If you chose an orthopedic surgeon to take care of your feet, make sure you chose one with expertise in foot problems. Remember, an orthopedic surgeon is primarily a surgeon and their approach to foot care usually focuses on surgery. A study by the Resident Education Committee of the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society initiated a survey of Orthopaedic Surgery Residents in the US. They found that the majority of orthopedic residents experienced an average of 12 weeks dedicated to foot and ankle training, whereas 18 of the 148 programs actually had 20-24 weeks of foot and ankle training. The majority of Orthopaedic Surgical Residencies had only one faculty member dedicated to foot and ankle training. Regardless of whom you choose, remember, there are always differences of opinion. A surgically trained podiatrist or a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon are both excellent choices. I obviously wound not recommend a podiatrist that has little surgical training, nor would I recommend a general orthopedic surgeon. It is always a great idea to ask your doctor about their qualifications and experience before proceeding with surgery.

A well trained podiatric surgeon or a foot and ankle orthopedist is certainly a personal decision. You should be comfortable with the individual doctor and his/her demeanor, attitude, and reputation. Contact Us Dallas podiatrist Dr. Ken Legel is a board certified in foot surgery, reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. To schedule an appointment, call our Dallas clinic at (214) 366-4600 About Dr. Legel Kennedy Legel, DPM leads the podiatry and foot/ankle specialty team at Advanced Foot & Ankle Care in Dallas. Board-certified in foot surgery by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, he focuses on providing practical patient education and treatment for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. Recent Blog Posts Podiatrists : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Podiatrists provide medical care for people with foot, ankle, and lower leg problems. Quick Facts: Podiatrists Job Outlook Employment of podiatrists is projected to grow 14 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Continued growth in the demand for medical and surgical care of the foot and ankle will stem from the aging population. Podiatrists will also be needed to treat patients with foot and ankle conditions caused by chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity. What Podiatrists Do About this section Podiatrists treat common foot and ankle ailments as well as perform more complicated surgeries. Podiatrists provide medical and surgical care for people with foot, ankle, and lower leg problems. They diagnose illnesses, treat injuries, and perform surgery involving the lower extremities.

Duties Podiatrists typically do the following: Assess the condition of a patient’s feet, ankles, or lower legs by reviewing his or her medical history, listening to the patient’s concerns, and performing a physical examination Diagnose foot, ankle, and lower leg problems through physical exams, x rays, medical laboratory tests, and other methods Provide treatment for foot, ankle, and lower leg ailments, such as prescribing special shoe inserts (orthotics) to improve a patient’s mobility Perform foot and ankle surgeries, such as removing bone spurs, fracture repairs, and correcting other foot and ankle deformities Advise and instruct patients on foot and ankle care and on general wellness techniques Prescribe medications Coordinate patient care with other physicians Refer patients to other physicians or specialists if they detect larger health problems, such as diabetes Conduct research, read journals, and attend conferences to keep up with advances in podiatric medicine and surgery Podiatrists treat a variety of foot and ankle ailments, including calluses, ingrown toenails, heel spurs, arthritis, congenital foot and ankle deformities, and arch problems. They also treat foot and leg problems associated with diabetes and other diseases. Some podiatrists spend most of their time performing advanced surgery, such as foot and ankle reconstruction.

Others may choose a specialty such as sports medicine or pediatrics. Podiatrists who own their practice may spend time on business-related activities, such as hiring employees and managing inventory. Patients with diabetes may develop foot problems that require the care of a podiatrist. Podiatrists held about 9,600 jobs in 2014. Most podiatrists work in offices of podiatry, either on their own or with other podiatrists. Some work in group practices with other physicians or specialists. Others work in private and public hospitals and outpatient care centers. Podiatrists may work closely with physicians and surgeons , registered nurses , and medical assistants . Work Schedules Most podiatrists work full time. Podiatrists’ offices may be open in the evenings or on weekends to accommodate patients. In hospitals, podiatrists may have to work occasional nights or weekends, or may be on call. How to Become a Podiatrist About this section Podiatrists listen to patients’ concerns about their feet, ankles, or lower legs. Podiatrists must earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree and complete a 3-year residency program. Every state requires podiatrists to be licensed.

Education Podiatrists must have a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from an accredited college of podiatric medicine. A DPM degree program takes 4 years to complete. In 2014, there were 9 colleges of podiatric medicine accredited by the Council on Podiatric Medical Education . Admission to podiatric medicine programs requires at least 3 years of undergraduate education, including specific courses in laboratory sciences such as biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as general coursework in subjects such as English. In practice, nearly all prospective podiatrists earn a bachelor’s degree before attending a college of podiatric medicine. Admission to DPM programs usually requires taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Courses for a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree are similar to those for other medical degrees. They include anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology among other subjects. During their last 2 years, podiatric medical students gain supervised experience by completing clinical rotations. Training After earning a DPM, podiatrists must apply to and complete a 3-year podiatric medical and surgical residency (PMSR) program. Residency programs take place in hospitals and provide both medical and surgical experience.

They may do additional training in specific fellowship areas, such as sports medicine or pediatrics. Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations Podiatrists in every state must be licensed. Podiatrists must pay a fee and pass the American Podiatric Medical Licensing Exam (APMLE), offered by the National Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners. Some states also require podiatrists to take a state-specific exam. Many podiatrists choose to become board certified. Certification generally requires a combination of work experience and passing an exam from the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery , the American Board of Podiatric Medicine , or the American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry . Important Qualities Compassion. Since podiatrists provide care for patients who may be in pain, they must be able to treat patients with compassion and understanding. Critical-thinking skills. Podiatrists must have a sharp, analytical mind to correctly diagnose a patient and determine the best course of treatment. Detail oriented. To provide safe, effective healthcare, a podiatrist should be detail oriented. For example, a podiatrist must pay attention to a patient’s medical history as well as current conditions when diagnosing a problem. Interpersonal skills.

Because podiatrists spend much of their time interacting with patients, they should be able to listen well and communicate effectively. For example, they should be able to tell a patient who is slated to undergo surgery what to expect and calm his or her fears. Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics The median annual wage for podiatrists was $119,340 in May 2015. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $48,920, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $187,200. Most podiatrists work full time. Podiatrists’ offices may be open in the evenings or on weekends to accommodate patients. In hospitals, podiatrists may have to work occasional nights or weekends, or may be on call. Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program Employment of podiatrists is projected to grow 14 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. However, because it is a small occupation, the fast growth will result in only about 1,400 new jobs over the 10-year period. As the U.S. population both ages and increases, the number of people expected to have mobility and foot-related problems will rise. Growing rates of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity, also may limit mobility of those with these conditions, and lead to problems such as poor circulation in the feet and lower extremities. More podiatrists will be needed to provide care for these patients. Job Prospects Job prospects for trained podiatrists should be good given that there are a limited number of colleges of podiatry. In addition, the retirement of currently practicing podiatrists in the coming years is expected to increase the number of job openings for podiatrists.

Employment projections data for podiatrists, 2014-24 Occupational Title State & Area Data About this section Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) The Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. The link(s) below go to OES data maps for employment and wages by state and area. Podiatrists Projections Central Occupational employment projections are developed for all states by Labor Market Information (LMI) or individual state Employment Projections offices. All state projections data are available at . Information on this site allows projected employment growth for an occupation to be compared among states or to be compared within one state. In addition, states may produce projections for areas; there are links to each state’s websites where these data may be retrieved. Career InfoNet America’s Career InfoNet includes hundreds of occupational profiles with data available by state and metro area. There are links in the left-hand side menu to compare occupational employment by state and occupational wages by local area or metro area. There is also a salary info tool to search for wages by zip code.

Find a Podiatrist (Foot Doctor) & Schedule an Appointment - ZocDoc Zocdoc Search by moving map What is a Podiatrist? A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in treating the foot, ankle, and lower leg. Podiatrists diagnose and treat issues such as sprains, warts, ingrown toe nails, infections, hammertoes, and more. Some podiatrists can perform surgery to correct foot problems if needed. Podiatrists also treat symptoms like lower-back pain with devices such as custom-made orthotics.

Question: What is the specialty of a podiatrist?
Answer: Feet