If you have ever had a bad ankle sprain or a fractured heel bone, chances are you’ve seen a foot podiatrist. But what is a podiatrist? Like other doctors who specialize in a particular field of medicine, podiatrists have chosen to provide care and treatment to the feet, ankles, and lower legs of their patients. The initials after their names, DPM, stand for doctor of podiatric medicine. Each one must receive training and clinical experience and pass exams in order to become certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and the American Board of Podiatric Medicine in order to examine and treat patients.
Podiatrists are able to prescribe medication and recommend physical therapy just like other doctors.Some of the specific things foot doctors do include:
- examining and diagnosing foot problems,
- providing treatment which may include surgical procedures,
- making casts for sprains and fractures,
- prescribing custom orthotics,
- consulting with patients regarding preventative care, and
- referring patients to additional doctors when other illnesses or conditions may be the cause of the foot complication.
Podiatrists employ the same examination methods and equipment as other doctors which can include the use of digital x-ray machines, skin biopsies, minimally invasive surgeries and arthroscopies, and diagnostic ultrasound equipment. You can expect to find state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and treatment procedures.
Foot podiatrists treat a wide range of injuries and conditions which include:
- heel spurs and pain,
- fallen arches,
- corns, calluses, warts, and bunions,
- ingrown toenails,
- athlete’s foot and toenail fungus,
- hammer toes,
- plantar fasciitis,
- sprains, strains, and fractures,
- Achilles tendonitis,
- numbness or tingling sensations,
- diabetic and peripheral neuropathy, and
- ankle, foot, and toe pain.
If you are suffering from one of these conditions or from something you can’t put your finger on, there’s no need to continue on in pain or discomfort. District Foot & Ankle is here to explore your medical history, conduct a thorough examination, and follow through with the appropriate treatment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.