Podiatrists are healthcare professionals specializing in the medical care and treatment of the foot and ankles. They undergo extensive education and training, obtaining doctorate degrees from accredited institutions of podiatric medicine. Podiatrists can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including fractures, arthritis, diabetic foot disorders, skin, and nail conditions, and causes of heel pain, like plantar fasciitis. Podiatrists can specialize in general foot conditions, or focus on specific areas like sports medicine, wound care, orthotics, diabetes, pediatrics, geriatrics, neurologic and circulatory foot conditions, and reconstructive surgery. To become a podiatrist, one must complete a bachelor's degree, followed by a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree, three years of residency training, national board certification, and state licensing. Specializations can be pursued through fellowship programs and certification exams. Podiatrists are considered physicians, possessing a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and systemic diseases, with their expertise solely focused on foot and ankle disorders. They differ from orthopedists, who treat musculoskeletal issues affecting the entire body. If you have any interest in becoming a podiatrist, it is suggested that you make an appointment to speak to one about their experiences.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Services . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:
- Physical therapy
- Drugs
- Orthotic inserts or soles
- Surgery on lower extremity fractures
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Murrieta, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.