Podiatrists specialize in foot, ankle, and lower leg care, and they treat related conditions. They typically complete four years of podiatric medical school, and most complete a hospital residency afterward. Since foot problems affect how you walk and stand, these doctors treat issues ranging from heel pain to deformities. Here is more information on their role:
Diagnosing Foot and Ankle Conditions
When you visit a podiatrist, the appointment typically starts with questions about your symptoms and medical history. The doctor then examines your feet, ankles, and footwear. They check your skin, nails, and circulation, and they test the strength and range of motion in your joints. Findings might include plantar fasciitis, bunions, ingrown toenails, and Achilles tendinitis.
Some conditions show up clearly during an exam, but others need imaging. If the podiatrist suspects a fracture or bone spur, they may order X-rays. Ultrasound and MRI scans reveal soft tissue damage, such as tendon tears. Blood tests may also check for gout or infection.
Many podiatrists also run a gait analysis. During this test, you walk on a treadmill or pressure mat while the doctor records your movement. The results show uneven pressure points, and they guide the treatment plan.
Providing Conservative Treatments
In many cases, podiatrists start with nonsurgical care unless an injury needs immediate repair. Custom orthotics are inserts made from a mold of your feet, and they redistribute pressure across your soles. Physical therapy targets weak muscles and tight tendons. Your podiatrist may also recommend the following options:
- Stretch routines for the calves and plantar fascia
- Night splints for morning heel pain
- Corticosteroid injections for inflammation
- Footwear changes, such as wider toe boxes or firmer heel support
- Pads for corns, calluses, and bunions
Checking Diabetic Wounds
Diabetes affects nerves and blood flow in the feet. Many people with diabetes lose feeling in their toes, and small cuts often go unnoticed. Since poor circulation slows healing, a minor blister may turn into an open ulcer. Podiatrists examine these wounds at regular visits.
If dead tissue blocks healing, the doctor removes it in a process called debridement. The podiatrist also measures the wound and checks for infection. You may need an offloading boot, and daily foot checks help you spot new sores early.
Performing Surgical Corrections
Surgery typically follows months of nonsurgical care, and some conditions do not respond to other treatments. When a deformity causes ongoing pain, a podiatric surgeon may correct the bone or tissue. Some procedures include the following:
- Bunionectomy to realign the big toe joint
- Hammertoe correction to straighten bent toes
- Plantar fascia release for chronic heel pain
- Ingrown toenail removal, often done in the office
- Neuroma excision to remove a pinched nerve
Recovery time differs by procedure. Before you agree to surgery, ask about the recovery timeline and any limits on walking. Some patients return to normal shoes in a few weeks, but bone procedures often need a longer healing period.
Schedule a Podiatrist Appointment
Foot pain has many causes, and a podiatrist examines the specific structures involved. Write down your symptoms before your visit. If you have diabetes, schedule a foot exam at least once a year. Bring your usual shoes and a list of current medications.
