A podiatrist is a medical professional whose specialty is foot, ankle, and leg care. This field originated in North America, and the term now encompasses all practitioners of podiatric medicine in the English-speaking world. Although the role of a podiatrist may have evolved over time, some of the same skills and training are common to practitioners across the globe. physiotherapists near me
A podiatrist’s expertise includes general foot care, splinting, orthotics, and footwear inserts. They can also prescribe stretches and exercises to strengthen the feet and ankles. And, they can help patients prevent injury and promote a healthy lifestyle. If you’re worried about pain, seek treatment from a podiatrist before it gets worse. Whether you’re dealing with diabetes or a bone or joint problem, your foot health is his or her priority.
The foot contains 33 joints and can become inflamed from normal wear and tear. Treatment may involve prescription drugs, physical therapy, or surgery. Heel pain is a common sign of heel spurs, which can be caused by wearing badly-fitting shoes or being overweight. Achilles tendinitis is another common cause of heel pain.
Those with advanced training in podiatry have the opportunity to specialize in a particular subspecialty, such as pediatrics, sports medicine, and geriatric medicine. During residency, podiatrists complete rotations through medical schools and hospitals and gain direct experience in the area.
Diabetics need to visit a podiatrist at least once a year for regular foot exams. Diabetics are especially vulnerable to foot problems, including amputation. If the condition is treated early, a diabetic foot can significantly reduce the risk of an amputation. So, if you’re experiencing foot pain, make sure to schedule a visit with a podiatrist as soon as possible.
To become a podiatrist, you must complete an accredited podiatric medical school. After completing the program, you must pass a written exam and complete a required postgraduate training. You may also be required to pass a board certification exam. Its component societies are located in every state and offer educational seminars. Approximately 80% of podiatric doctors are members of the APMA.
As a doctor who specializes in podiatry, you can expect high-quality care for your feet. A podiatrist’s training is rigorous, requiring three years of hospital-based residency. In addition, they are responsible for interpreting diagnostic tests that may indicate underlying problems with your feet.
Another common pediatric foot problem is ingrown toenails, a condition in which the edge of the nail grows into the flesh of the toe. This can cause pain, swelling, and redness. Proper care of this problem can prevent the development of a more severe problem. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Most podiatrists work in private practice. However, some of them also serve on hospital or clinic staffs. Some are even employed by city health departments or work for the Veterans Administration.