You use your feet every day. But despite their importance, you may not think about them much unless there’s a problem. That’s where podiatrists — doctors who specialize in medical issues affecting the ankles and feet — come in. A podiatrist isn’t the only clinician who can treat foot problems; your primary care physician, a physical therapist or an orthopedist may also be helpful. But podiatrists are definitely the most comprehensive.
Whether you have a skin, nail, circulation, muscle or joint problem in your foot, a podiatrist can diagnose and treat the issue. “Podiatry involves everything about one body part,” says Dr. Ami Sheth, a California-based podiatrist and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association. “We’re like generalists of the foot and ankle.”
Podiatrists receive different training than typical medical doctors. They go to podiatry school for four years, followed by a medical residency, before receiving a license to practice. You can rest assured that a podiatrist is specially trained in issues affecting the foot — and will refer you to someone else if your problem is outside their scope.
Ready to put your best foot forward? Here’s what to know about when to see a podiatrist.
Should I see a podiatrist for regular check-ups?
Dr. Emily Splichal, founder of EBFA Global, says anyone can benefit from seeing a podiatrist to learn about their foot type and how it may affect the rest of their body. For instance, you might have flat feet that cause pain and need shoe inserts, or high arches, which can increase the risk of ankle injuries. “Most people have little understanding of the foot anatomy and function, and I find this a great opportunity to learn easy foot care tips,” Splichal says.
As you age, it might be a good idea to see a podiatrist more regularly, since aging is linked to higher risk of developing foot issues. Sheth says podiatrists can help diabetes patients prevent and manage foot wounds or swelling, common manifestations of high blood sugar. If you have arthritis that affects your ankles or feet, a podiatrist can prescribe special shoes or exercises to improve pain and functionality. Chemotherapy can also cause nerve problems in the feet, so Sheth says cancer patients often see podiatrists.
What are some common foot issues worth a trip to the podiatrist?
Patients often see podiatrists for heel pain, bunions (a bony bump that forms near your big toe), hammertoes (toes that are abnormally bent at the middle joint), ingrown nails, warts and fungal infections.
Podiatrists can also help with sprained ankles or broken toes. They can conduct x-rays and minor surgeries. They can reset broken bones, prescribe medication for fungal infections and remove bunions and warts, among other procedures.
How do I know if a podiatrist is the right specialist?
It’s never a bad idea to go directly to a podiatrist if you have a problem affecting your ankle or feet. Most insurance plans don’t require patients to get referrals from primary care doctors to see a podiatrist, though it helps to check before scheduling an appointment.
If your podiatrist thinks you need a different type of care, they’ll recommend it. For example, Sheth often refers patients to physical therapy for recovery after she initially treats an injury.
If you’re unsure, you can begin with your primary care provider. Some PCPs are comfortable treating foot issues, but they might refer you to a podiatrist if you have ongoing or specific needs. No matter what you’re struggling with, Sheth emphasizes that you shouldn’t put up with foot discomfort. “A lot of people feel like foot pain is normal, but you don’t have to hurt,” she says.
If foot issues are interfering with your day-to-day life, it’s always a good idea to seek medical care. A podiatrist can help you get back on your feet.