When it comes to the medical field, there are specialists for every area of medicine you can think of. One important medical provider that every person should regularly see is a podiatrist. A podiatrist takes care of the health and function of your ankle and foot.
Since you need these structures every time you stand, walk, run, dance, and more, it is very important that you take good care of them. Having a go-to provider to evaluate, diagnose, and treat injuries and conditions quickly and effectively is a great way to safeguard your feet and ankles.
Facts About Podiatry
If you are unfamiliar with the field of podiatry, let’s get you familiarized using the following facts:
- Podiatry is a medical specialty that involves the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot, ankle, and lower limb problems. This is accomplished through a variety of treatment modalities, including orthotics, medication, physical therapy, injections, and surgery.
- A podiatrist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of medical diseases and injuries involving the foot and ankle. They can sometimes diagnose and treat lower limb disorders, as well.
- Accredited podiatric medical schools award doctorate degrees to podiatrists. Despite having a broad understanding of human anatomy and physiology, their education focuses on the treatment of the lower extremities, particularly the foot and ankle.
- During residency training in hospitals and healthcare centers, podiatrists acquire hands-on experience. They must pass a series of board certification examinations after finishing coursework. A fully licensed podiatrist’s name is preceded by the letters DPM, which stand for Doctor of Podiatric Medicine.
Podiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat a variety of foot problems. Examples include:
- Fractured or broken bones in the ankle or foot
- Sprains and strains
- Arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout-related foot pain and inflammation
- Infections, chronic ulcers, and nerve damage or neuropathy in diabetics’ feet
- Structural issues of the foot, such as hammertoes, flat feet, and high arches
- Warts, corns, plantar dermatitis, and athlete’s foot
- Nail problems, such as ingrown nails and infections
- Heel pain causes, such as plantar fasciitis
Some podiatrists focus on particular areas of podiatric medicine.
Examples include:
- Orthotics
- Diabetes
- Dermatology
- Pediatric care
- Geriatric care
- Neurologic foot conditions
- Circulatory food conditions
- Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions
- General or reconstructive surgery
- Sports medicine
- Diabetic foot care
Podiatrists and orthopedic doctors are not the same.
Despite the fact that podiatrists and orthopedists can treat many of the same medical problems, they are not the same. A podiatrist is a doctor that focuses on problems with the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. An orthopedist, often known as an orthopedic surgeon, is a physician who focuses on musculoskeletal issues that impact the entire body.
Quality Podiatric Care in Naples, Florida
If you are searching for a reputable, experienced podiatry team to take care of your foot or ankle issues, look no further than the Joint Replacement Institute. We have an experienced and compassionate team that can quickly take care of all your needs.
Do you have pain in your foot or ankle? Make an appointment with our podiatrist today!
Call (239) 261-2663, or request an appointment online. We look forward to serving you soon!
