What does a podiatrist do?
Podiatry is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of conditions and disorders related to the feet, ankles and lower extremities. Podiatrists, also known as doctors of podiatric medicine (DPMs), are healthcare professionals trained to provide a wide range of treatments and care for foot and ankle problems. Below are some key aspects of podiatric treatments:
- Diagnosis and evaluation: Podiatrists begin by thoroughly examining the patient’s feet and lower extremities. They may use diagnostic tools such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans and ultrasounds to identify the root cause of the problem.
- Treatment planning: Once a diagnosis has been made, podiatrists develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to the specific condition and needs of the patient. This plan may include both conservative and surgical options.
- Conservative treatments: Many foot and ankle problems can be effectively treated without surgery. Conservative treatments may include:
- Physical therapy: Exercises and therapies to improve mobility, strength and function.
- Orthotics: Custom-made insoles to correct gait problems, provide support and relieve pressure in specific areas of the foot.
- Medications: Prescription or over-the-counter medications to control pain, inflammation or infection.
- Shoe recommendations: Guidance on selecting appropriate footwear to alleviate foot problems or accommodate orthotics.
- Padding and bandaging: Techniques to reduce friction and pressure on painful areas, such as corns, calluses and bunions.
- Surgical interventions: In cases where conservative treatments are not effective or when a condition is severe, surgery may be recommended. Podiatric surgeons are trained to perform a variety of surgical interventions, such as:
- Bunion surgery (hallux valgus correction): To realign the big toe joint.
- Hammertoe correction: Surgery to straighten and realign deformed toes.
- Calcaneal spur surgery: Removal of bony growths on the heel bone.
- Ankle and foot fracture repair: Surgical fixation of broken bones in the feet and ankles.
- Tendon repair: Surgery to repair or reconstruct damaged tendons, such as the Achilles tendon.
Podiatrists can also take care of:
- Wound care: Podiatrists also specialize in the management of foot ulcers and diabetic foot care. They can provide advanced wound care techniques, which are critical for people with diabetes or circulatory problems.
- Sports medicine: Podiatrists often work with athletes to diagnose and treat injuries related to the feet and ankles. They can also offer advice on injury prevention and proper footwear selection.
- Pediatric podiatry: Some podiatrists specialize in treating foot and ankle conditions in children, addressing problems such as flat feet, gait abnormalities and congenital deformities.
- Geriatric podiatry: Seniors may need specialized care for age-related foot problems such as arthritis, corns and calluses. Podiatrists can offer solutions to improve comfort and mobility in older adults.
- Nail and skin conditions: Podiatrists treat common nail and skin conditions of the feet, such as fungal infections, ingrown toenails, warts and athlete’s foot.
- Education and preventive care: In addition to treating existing conditions, podiatrists educate patients about foot health, proper foot care and preventive measures to avoid future problems.
Podiatrists play a vital role in maintaining the health and function of the feet and lower extremities, helping patients lead active, pain-free lives. If you are experiencing foot or ankle problems, seeing a podiatrist is a smart step to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.
