Who is a podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a physician, surgeon, and doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM) who treats problems of the lower legs and feet. They are qualified to diagnose, detect, and treat disorders affecting the foot, ankle, and related structures, as well as any issues with the functioning of the leg. In addition to treating injuries and illnesses, podiatrists also treat chronic and complex health issues like arthritis and diabetes. Podiatric doctors undergo specialized training to treat the lower extremities.
Podiatrists often work independently, using X-rays and laboratory tests to identify symptoms and diagnose conditions. They prescribe medications and physical therapy, treat fractures, and perform surgery. Sometimes, they also work closely with other healthcare professionals in certain situations to control the disease. For example, a podiatrist may work with a nutritionist to treat a diabetic patient. This ensures that the patient receives a holistic treatment plan and can improve their overall quality of life.
Podiatrists can also work in various settings based on their education and interests. For instance, if a doctor is interested in contributing to research, they may work as a researcher or professor in a medical school. They can also work in health maintenance or non-profit organizations, public health services, the Department of Veterans Affairs, armed forces, hospitals, and extended care facilities.
What training and education does a podiatrist receive?
Like other medical aspirants, podiatry students earn undergraduate degrees in science or other fields. During their degree, they study modules such as biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and medical ethics. They also participate in various workshops and internships that equip them with the knowledge for further education.
After receiving qualifying marks and credits, they join a four-year podiatry school. During their medical education, they learn about the structure and functioning of bones, nerves, and muscles. They also learn about various diseases that affect the feet and equip themselves with clinical skills such as diagnosing, preventing, and treating foot conditions.
A podiatry graduate is required to join a residency program. Typically, a residency program lasts two years and must be approved and accredited by a credible healthcare facility. The clinical training takes an interdisciplinary approach to medicine, and podiatrists undergo rotations in many subfields. They may train in anesthesiology, internal medicine, infectious disease, surgery, and pediatrics. They undergo a combination of medical, clinical, and surgical training experiences. After completing the program, podiatrists may join another 36-month program called the Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Residency (PMSR). Additional training enables them to deepen their knowledge of foot and ankle surgeries.
To become board-certified, podiatrists must graduate from one of the nine schools approved and certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association. Requirements to earn the certification include the following:
- Passing the National Board Exam
- Finishing residency training
- Completing medical internships
- Passing oral and written exams conducted by the state
It is crucial for them to meet all the criteria and understand the procedure in the state they wish to practice in. The written exams include topics such as medicine, radiology, orthopedics, biomechanics, sports medicine, community health, jurisprudence, and research.
Podiatrists can also specialize in many subfields of podiatry. These include surgery, orthopedics, public health, sports medicine, pediatrics, dermatology, radiology, geriatrics, and diabetic foot care.
What conditions do podiatrists treat?
Podiatrists treat a range of illnesses and injuries, such as:
- Bunions: Bunions are bony bumps that grow at the base of your big toe. Its symptoms include pain or stiffness in the affected area, swelling, redness, corns or calluses, and numbness around your big toe. Podiatrists treat bunions using a range of treatments, including pain relievers, corticosteroids, and bunion correction surgery.
- Flatfeet: Flatfeet is a common condition in which the arches on the inside of your feet flatten when you exert pressure on them. If you have flat feet, your feet point outwards when you stand up, and your entire soles fall and touch the floor. Typically, this condition is painless and does not require treatment. However, if you experience pain and limited range of motion, your podiatrist might suggest physical therapy, orthotic devices for arch support, and stretching exercises.
- Heel bursitis: Bursitis occurs when a bursa (a small, slippery, and fluid-filled sac that cushions bones from sliding against skin, tendons, and muscles) becomes irritated, causing foot and heel pain. Tenderness, pain, and swelling in or behind the heel are some tell-tale signs of this condition. Based on the severity of your symptoms, a podiatrist can suggest orthotic devices, antibiotics, corticosteroids, and physical therapy to treat heel bursitis.
- Plantar fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, occurs when the plantar fascia in your foot becomes inflamed. Its symptoms include heel pain, stiffness, swelling around your heel, and pain in the arch of your foot. Rest, icing your foot, and over-the-counter pain relievers can treat mild cases of plantar fasciitis.
Your podiatrist might suggest massages, stretches, corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma, extracorporeal pulse activation technology, and percutaneous needle tenotomy for severe cases. Additionally, while surgical treatment for this condition is rare, they might recommend gastrocnemius recession or plantar fascial release.
When should you consult a podiatrist?
Our feet and ankles tend to come out of a rest state when the climate gets warm; however, they are not ready for seasonal changes. Unfortunately, many people don't think it necessary to visit a podiatrist or are unsure where to go for treatment. Some individuals also hold the view that experiencing discomfort in the foot is a natural occurrence. Podiatrists explain that foot discomfort is not normal and needs medical intervention immediately. If you face any issues in your foot or ankle, such as an injury, joint pain, or skin problems, you must visit a podiatrist near you.
- Numbness, pain, or swelling: Occasionally, experiencing pain or swelling in the foot is standard. For example, if you ran a marathon or have been on your feet all day, you may experience discomfort. However, if you notice sudden pain, swelling, or numbness in only one foot for no visible reason, it can signify something serious.
- Nail fungus: The number of people contracting fungal infections on their toenails has increased exponentially in recent years due to the popularity of nail salons. If the fungus is left untreated, the nail may become thick or discolored, and the fungus may spread to other toenails.
- Diabetes: Health disorders like heart disease and diabetes can also affect the foot. If you have type 1 or 2 diabetes, you are at a greater risk of developing foot problems. If you have high blood glucose levels, you may experience poor circulation, nerve damage, ulcers, and infections in the foot area. You should visit a podiatrist at least once a year for a foot exam if you have diabetes.
What to expect during a podiatry appointment
A podiatry appointment typically begins with a detailed review of your medical history, focusing on any previous foot or ankle injuries, symptoms, or surgeries. This step helps the podiatrist assess potential risk factors and determine whether underlying conditions, such as diabetes or vascular disease, may be contributing to foot problems. Understanding a patient's medical background allows for more accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.
Following the medical history review, the doctor conducts a thorough physical examination. This includes assessing structural changes in the foot and ankle, checking toenail health, and identifying areas of discomfort. The exam may also involve testing for tenderness, evaluating a joint range of motion, and analyzing how you walk to detect gait abnormalities. These help diagnose conditions like flat feet, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, or nerve-related issues.
If further investigation is necessary, the podiatrist may recommend diagnostic tests. X-rays are commonly used to identify fractures, bone deformities, or joint problems. Ultrasound and MRI scans provide more detailed imaging of soft tissues, helping to assess ligament and tendon injuries that might not be visible during a physical exam.
After diagnosis, the podiatrist develops a tailored remedy plan for your needs. Treatment options may include custom orthotics, physical therapy, medications, or lifestyle adjustments. In severe cases, surgical interventions might be considered.
Beyond medical treatments, podiatrists also provide routine care to maintain overall foot health. Services include trimming toenails to prevent ingrown nails, removing calluses, and treating fungal infections. People with diabetes receive specialized foot care to prevent ulcers, infections, and nerve damage. Regular foot check-ups help detect issues early, reducing the risk of severe complications. Proper foot care is essential in maintaining mobility and overall well-being.
How do you keep your feet healthy?
The different ways you can keep your feet healthy include the following:
- Keep your blood sugar levels under control: Consistent high sugar levels in the blood could cause nerve damage and loss of skin sensation in the feet. Reduced blood flow to the feet may also affect their natural infection resistance and injury-healing properties. Regular physical activity and healthy food habits can help maintain blood sugar levels and prevent type 2 diabetes. Physical activity can also help control and prevent chronic diseases and conditions.
- Check your feet regularly: You must check your feet regularly for cracked skin, minor cuts, blisters, and redness. Check the bottom of your feet. Use a hand mirror if you cannot see the bottom of the feet. If you experience problems in your feet, you must visit a qualified foot doctor near you for further diagnosis and treatment. If ignored, these problems could lead to significant health complications. If you have diabetes, you must regularly check your feet for visible foot problems.
- Clean your feet daily: Use lukewarm water to clean your feet daily. Too cold or hot water could damage your skin, especially among people with diabetes, and decrease skin sensation. Use a soft sponge or a washcloth and gentle soap. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse and completely dry your feet before wearing your socks or shoes.
- Wear clean and comfortable socks: If the socks are uncomfortable, the sweat and moisture stay on the skin for extended periods, causing rashes and infection. Also, too tight socks or bunched up around the calf or ankles can cause movement issues and irritation. Diabetes can further increase the chances of developing various foot problems. Therefore, podiatrists recommend wearing unique, comfortable socks that provide extra cushioning and wick out sweat and moisture.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Ensure your shoes are correctly sized and fit your feet comfortably. Tightly fitted shoes may cause infection, blisters, and movement issues. Select shoes that properly support the ankles and feet and ensure safe walking. Avoid shoes that irritate the feet. A foot doctor near you can help you select the correct shoes that fit your daily routine and adequately support your feet and legs.
- Cut nails regularly and carefully: Trim your toenails, but don't cut them too short, as nails could become ingrown and lead to infection or soreness. Cut your toenails straight across and then file the edges. Take assistance if you need help cutting your nails. Avoid injuring the skin when cutting or filing the toenails.
How to find a qualified podiatrist in Bayonne, NJ?
Podiatrists use innovative methods and advanced technologies to diagnose and treat foot conditions. If you experience pain or discomfort in your foot, you may need to see a podiatrist immediately. You can also self-examine your foot regularly to ensure that you do not ignore any abnormal changes in the structure or functioning. When you visit a podiatrist near you, they may ask you about your medical and family history. Understanding how your body works will help them in the process of providing treatment. For example, you should tell your doctor if you have experienced severe side effects from a particular medication.
Developing a long-lasting doctor-patient relationship is vital in receiving medical care. To find a podiatrist near you who understands your medical needs, use the advanced features of Zocdoc. Visit the website and click on the "sign-up" option to register a free account. On the homepage, you can enter your symptoms and conditions, the specialty of the physician you want to consult, date, time, location, and insurance carrier plans to filter your search. The results will give you a comprehensive list of all the providers meeting your criteria.
You can also use Zocdoc's insurance detector to check which podiatrists accept your medical insurance. While adding an image of your medical insurance card can help you select your plan on Zocdoc, it is not necessary. If you do not want to upload a photo of your card, you can add details about your insurance provider and plan by manually selecting them from a dropdown list. For other insurance-related queries, visit Zocdoc's patient help center.
Finding out more about the doctor's services before you book an appointment may be beneficial. To do this, visit their unique profile and read about their academic qualifications, medical background, research interests, services, types of appointments, languages they speak, and gender. You can also read reviews from other patients who have consulted the doctor. Once you find the right podiatrist near you, you can book your first session with them.
All bookings made on Zocdoc are simple, free, and secure!
Statistics on podiatry in New Jersey
According to a 2017 report by the CDC, almost 1 in 4 adults with arthritis in the U.S. also experience chronic pain. 37.2% of people who are obese also experience severe joint pain, compared to those who are overweight (26.6%) or underweight (29.1%).
Nearly 1.5 million adults in New Jersey have some arthritis, and according to a health report by the State of New Jersey, arthritis is the leading cause of disability. Around 78% of New Jersey residents received an arthritis diagnosis from a doctor but are not undergoing treatment. Moreover, half of these people do not know what type of arthritis they have.
According to the National Employment Rate Report of May 2023 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 9,470 podiatrists practiced actively across the U.S. Of them, 5,580 worked in the offices of other health practitioners, whereas 1,970 worked in physicians' offices. About 490 podiatrists provided services in New Jersey as of 2023.
Sources
American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine
WebMD
Healthline
American Podiatric Medical Association
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
ChoosePT
Mayo Clinic
Cleveland Clinic[1]
Cleveland Clinic[2]
Cleveland Clinic[3]
Cleveland Clinic[4]
Verywellhealth
