Who is a podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a surgeon or a physician specializing in diagnosing and treating ankle and foot conditions. Doctors who treated foot conditions were commonly known as chiropodists, but now they are known as podiatrists.
Unlike typical medical doctors, podiatrists are not MDs or doctors of medicine but are still considered doctors. Though they are not required to have an MD, they still have to obtain a DPM degree, which is short for Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. After receiving their four-year DPM degree, they must complete hospital residency training. To practice in the United States, they must acquire certification from the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM).
What does a podiatrist do?
A podiatrist is a crucial part of the healthcare team. They are skilled at detecting whether certain conditions are causally linked with symptoms in the feet or legs.
On a regular day, a podiatrist's role may be to:
- Diagnose foot conditions, like fractures, skin or nail disorders, tumors, ulcers, and congenital or acquired deformity, such as weak feet or foot imbalance.
- Provide consultations/follow-ups to patients discussing the continued treatment of ailments and preventive foot care.
- Treat ailments such as abscesses, arch problems, bone disorders, bunions, calluses, corns, cysts, heel spurs, ingrown toenails, and shortened tendons.
- Design corrective orthotics or braces, plaster casts, and strappings to rectify deformities or make flexible casting for impairment due to ankle and foot fractures, sprains, or other injuries.
- Rectify walking patterns and balance and encourage the ability to move more comfortably and efficiently.
- Refer their patients to other specialists when signs or symptoms in the feet signify conditions like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease.
Conditions that podiatrists treat
- Foot corns: Foot corns are bumpy structures or buildup of hard and thick areas of skin on the foot. Though corn can occur anywhere, it is often seen on hands and feet. There are three types of foot corn: hard, soft, and seed. Foot corn can be caused due to regularly wearing ill-fitting shoes, not wearing socks when wearing new or tight footwear, etc. The increased friction between the skin and the footwear is one of the main reasons for foot corn buildup.
- Symptoms of foot corn include reduced sensitivity to touch on the corn and around the skin surrounding the corn, a tricky skin buildup, and intense pain when pressure is applied. A podiatrist may provide an anti-bacterial cream or suggest surgical removal for the corn.
- Arthritis: Arthritis is an age-related health condition where the tenderness or swelling of joints causes a person to lose control and coordination over their day-to-day physical functioning. This constant joint pain and stiffness can worsen with age and cause many problems. The two most common types of arthritis found are rheumatoid and osteoarthritis arthritis.
- While osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in the bone to break down, rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, attacks the immune system by which the joints are affected. Arthritis symptoms include pain, redness, decreased range of movement or motion, stiffness, and swelling. Family history, age, underlying joint injury, obesity, etc., are some of the risk factors for arthritis.
- Achilles tendinitis: Achilles tendinitis is a foot condition due to an injury resulting from overuse of the Achilles tendon. This strip of tissue connects the muscles in the calf situated at the rear of the lower part of the leg to the bone in the heel. Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that many athletes experience. It usually happens when athletes suddenly increase the intensity of their practice.
- Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis include mild or sometimes intense pain in the back of the leg and pain above the heel, especially after a run or any other kind of physical activity.
- Neuroma: Neuroma is also known as Morton's neuroma. It is a painful foot condition that affects the ball of the foot. It usually occurs near the area between the third and fourth toes. Anyone suffering from neuroma might feel like they are walking with a pebble inside their footwear. It is a severe condition caused by tissue thickening around one of the nerves leading to the toes.
- Some studies indicate that constant usage of uncomfortable footwear like high heels or tight shoes may cause the condition. Symptoms of Morton's neuroma include pain, burning sensations, tingling or numbness, etc.
When should you visit the best podiatrist near you?
Feet disorders can appear as common ailments that sometimes may not cause significant discomfort; however, it is crucial to know about certain signs indicating that you must visit a podiatrist. You must consider visiting a podiatrist if you have the following:
- Diabetes or have a history of diabetes in your family.
- An ingrown toenail causes a lot of pain or discomfort while walking.
- An ankle sprain or a leg, foot, or ankle fracture.
- Start showing symptoms of arthritis or neuroma.
- Trouble walking properly
- A bunion or a callus on your foot is making it difficult for you to walk.
- A history of specific disorders in your family, like arthritis.
- Intense joint pain in the legs is hampering your everyday activities.
Difference between a podiatrist and an orthopedist
An orthopedist is a medical physician who maintains bones, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and tendons throughout the body, including the ankle and foot. In contrast, a podiatrist is a medical doctor focusing strictly on ankle and foot care.
Both orthopedists and podiatrists manage ankle and foot areas concerning the bones, joints, and soft tissues. They conduct many of the same ankle and foot procedures. They are highly experienced and qualified to treat them surgically and non-surgically. The only noticeable difference between an orthopedist and a podiatrist is that the latter also concern themselves with the biomechanics and dermatology of the ankle and foot.
For example, a podiatrist is typically an indispensable healthcare provider for diabetic people with severe concerns about their foot health. However, an orthopedic should be your go-to for rescue when you have broken bones, fractures, or pain in those areas.
Tips to maintain foot hygiene
Maintaining proper foot hygiene is crucial to prevent issues like infections, fungal growth, and unpleasant odors. Here are some simple tips to ensure your feet stay healthy:
- Daily washing: Make it a routine to wash your feet every day using soap and water. It is advisable to pay special attention to drying them properly, especially between the toes, where moisture can accumulate, creating an environment for fungal growth.
- Regular toenail trimming: Trim your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails. This simple practice can prevent painful and uncomfortable issues.
- Wear clean socks daily: Wear clean and dry socks every day to keep your feet dry and deter fungal growth. Opt for breathable materials like cotton or wool and avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap moisture.
- Choose proper footwear: Select shoes that fit well and provide ample foot support. Avoid tight or loose shoes, and select the ones made from breathable materials to enhance comfort.
- Use foot powder: Apply foot powder to absorb moisture and reduce friction, helping to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
- Perform regular foot checks: Take a few moments each day to inspect your feet for any signs of problems such as cuts, blisters, or sores. If you notice changes like redness, swelling, or pain, consult a podiatrist.
- Maintain good foot care habits: Avoid sharing shoes or socks, and never walk barefoot in public areas like locker rooms or pools. Additionally, refrain from using sharp tools to remove calluses or other foot issues, as this can lead to injury or infection.
By following these simple yet impactful tips, you can maintain proper foot hygiene and prevent various foot-related problems. If you ever have concerns about your foot health, do not hesitate to reach out to the best podiatrist near you for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. Your feet deserve the best care!
Finding the best podiatrist near you in Boston
From diabetes to high cholesterol, various underlying conditions can affect the foot. Issues related to lower body parts like the leg, ankle, and foot can be highly irritating and hamper everyday activity. Finding the right podiatrist who will help you understand the risk of your foot complications is vital.
If you live in Boston and are searching for a podiatrist, head over to the Zocdoc website and find the best podiatrist in Boston who will cater to your needs and issues. With Zocdoc, you can find the best podiatrist near you in Boston and customize your search according to your insurance plans, languages spoken, in-person or virtual appointments, etc.
Every doctor has a detailed bio, including their qualifications, affiliations, accreditations, awards, and verified patient reviews to help you make an informed choice. You can then easily make an appointment using Zocdoc; all bookings are simple, secure, and free!
Diabetes and arthritis in Massachusetts
According to America’s Health Rankings, around 26.2% of adults in Massachusetts reported having been told by a healthcare professional that they had some arthritis in 2022. According to a 2015 report by Mass.gov, the spread of diabetes in Massachusetts has steadily increased.
The prevalence of diabetes in Massachusetts increased with age. Since 2015, it has increased by 18.5% in the 65-74 age group and about 22% in the 75 and above age group. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 1 in 4 or 25% of the US adults, and about 58 million Americans, are diagnosed with arthritis.
Sources
American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine
Colorado Center of Orthopaedic Excellence
Mayo Clinic[1]
Southshore Health
Mayo Clinic[2]
Mayo Clinic[3]
Mass.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Happy Feet Plus
America’s Health Rankings
