What is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist, known as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), focuses specifically on the feet, ankles & lower legs. They treat patients of all ages, dealing with everything from a nagging ache after a long day on their feet to injuries and more complex conditions requiring closer attention.
Some podiatrists lean toward treating kids or older adults, while others spend most of their time on surgical cases involving the foot and ankle. They work in private practices, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, & other healthcare settings that treat foot & ankle conditions.
What Conditions Does a Podiatrist Treat?
Podiatrists diagnose and treat many foot and ankle conditions, including heel pain, plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections, sprains, fractures, and sports injuries.
They also manage foot problems related to chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, poor circulation, and peripheral neuropathy, helping detect issues early and prevent serious complications.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
Ongoing pain in your foot or ankle is reason enough to book an appointment, and the same goes for any injury that hasn't healed properly. Watch for changes like:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Bruising
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Burning
- Sores
- Wounds
- Skin discoloration