Foot Doctors
Foot doctors, also known as podiatrists, are physicians who are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat the foot, ankle and associated structures of the leg based on the medical and surgical training that they receive. They help correct and prevent deformities, restore mobility and treat infections. They also help patients understand the basics of how to look after their feet and what type of shoes to wear. According to the Podiatric Medical Board of California, about eight out of 10 Americans have experienced foot problems as a result of wearing ill-fitting shoes.
The primary responsibilities of a foot doctor are:
- Providing consultation to patients concerning preventive foot care.
- Using the latest techniques to treat conditions like hammertoes, bunions, corns, ingrown toenails, bone disorders and calluses.
- Diagnosing, managing and/or treating conditions like tumors, fractures, congenital or acquired deformities.
- Designing orthotics to help correct deformities in patients.
- Preventing, diagnosing and treating sports injuries.
Visit the American Podiatric Medical Association website to learn more about a foot doctor’s area of expertise.
Training of a foot doctor
To become a foot doctor, one must complete four years of training in a podiatric medical school. Upon successful completion, they receive a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree. After this, they go on to take up three additional years of residency training. Some podiatrists may complete a fellowship after residency to specialize in fields such as surgery, sports medicine, pediatrics or diabetic care.
Frequently asked questions
What are some of the most common foot conditions and treatments?
- Arthritis: It is an inflammation of the lining of joints. It causes pain and stiffness in the affected area, in turn affecting your mobility.
- Tendon and muscle problems: Conditions such as heel pain, Haglund’s deformity and tendinitis fall under this category.
- Skin disorders: athlete’s foot, corns, psoriasis, warts and sweaty feet are some of the skin disorders that can be treated and managed by a foot doctor.
- Cardiovascular disease and diabetes: A foot doctor plays a critical role in managing diabetes and its foot-related complications. Along with this, hypertension and other circulatory and heart problems are managed by foot doctors.
- Others: Sprains, fractures, ingrown toenails and toenail fungus can be treated by a foot specialist.
When should I visit a foot doctor?
A foot doctor can help treat, manage and prevent foot problems in the long run. You should visit a doctor if:
- You are experiencing joint pain in your ankles or feet. With arthritis being one of the most common conditions affecting adults, it is crucial to have this checked for early detection and treatment.
- You have been diagnosed with diabetes. Foot problems can arise as complications of diabetes.
- You have an ingrown toenail that is painful.
- You think you have a broken bone in the foot.
- You have a painful bunion, corn or callus.
What are some quick tips for my appointment?
Before you visit:
- Make a note of your symptoms and questions.
- Make a note of all medications and any existing medical conditions.
- Carry all important lab test results.
- Bring a friend or family member along if you want.
When you visit:
- Get all your questions answered.
- Discuss your symptoms.
- Discuss any allergies.
- Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Where can I find foot doctors near me?
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Sources:
American Podiatric Medical Association
American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine
The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.
