What is a Podiatrist

A podiatrist, also called a doctor of podiatric medicine, is a physician and surgeon who specializes in the medical diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle problems, such as bunions, heel pain, spurs, hammertoes, neuromas, ingrown toenails, corns and calluses. A podiatrist also diagnosis and treats sprains, fractures, infections, and injuries of the foot, ankle and heel. In addition to an undergraduate degree, Podiatrists then attend medical school where they study general medicine and injury, diseases and deformities of the feet. Podiatrists then further their skills in residencies and fellowships as well as continuing education which is required for lisensure. Podiatrists can also qualify and become board certified in surgery or in primary care. Podiatrists are required to take state and national exams, as well as be licensed by the state in which they practice.

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, there are an estimated 15,000 practicing podiatrists in the United States. The Department of Labor has determined that there is a critical shortage of Podiatrists. Podiatrists are in demand more than ever today because of a rapidly aging population. In addition, according to the association, foot disorders are among the most widespread and neglected health problems affecting people in this country.

Typically, podiatrists:

• Consult with patients and other physicians on how to prevent foot problems.
  
  
• Diagnose and treat tumors, ulcers, fractures and deformities.
  
  
• Perform surgeries to correct or remedy such problems as bunions, clawtoes, fractures, hammertoes, infections, ruptured Achilles, and other ligaments and tendons.
  
  
• Prescribe therapies, medications and perform diagnostic procedures such as x-rays, ultrasound and lab tests.
  
  
• Prescribes or fits patients with inserts called orthotics that correct walking patterns.
  
  
• Treat conditions such as: bone disorders, bunions, corns, calluses, cysts, heel spurs, infections, ingrown nails, and plantar fasciitis.
  
  

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