Training
of a Podiatrist
A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) practices the
medical, surgical, and biomechanical treatment of the
human foot, ankle, and associated structures. Although
we specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment
of problems affecting the foot and ankle, Doctors of
Podiatric Medicine are also highly trained health care
providers. We see people of all ages and are often the
first medical specialists to diagnose systemic problems
that affect the feet and ankles such as diabetes, gout,
hypertension, immunodeficiencies, and arthritis. Four
years of podiatric medical school is typically followed
by 2 or 3 years of residency that certifies these doctors
to function as partners in the larger medical community.
Podiatric physicians (podiatrists) are medical professionals
who exclusively specialize in treating the foot and
ankle.
What does a podiatric physician do?
- Diagnoses lower extremity pathology such as tumors,
ulcers, fractures, skin and nail diseases, and congenital
and acquired deformities.
- Makes independent judgments, prescribes medications,
utilizes x-rays, MRI, ultrasound and other laboratory
tests for diagnostic purposes, and orders physical
therapy.
- Treats conditions such as: corns, calluses, bunions,
heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, ingrown nails, cysts,
bone disorders, and infections of the foot.
- Fits corrective inserts called orthotics that address
walking patterns to improve the overall ability of
effective and efficient ambulation.
- Provides consultations for the patient and for
referring physicians regarding prevention of podiatric
problems and possible treatments.
- Performs surgical correction of the foot including:
hammertoes, clawtoes, bunions, fractures, infections,
ruptured ligaments and tendons, and neuro-vascular
abnormalities of the foot.
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