Chiropodist Podiatrist BN

A podiatrist, also called a doctor of podiatric medicine, is a specialist who provides medical diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle problems, such as bunions, heel pain, spurs, hammertoes, neuromas, ingrown toenails, warts, corns and calluses. A podiatrist also renders care of sprains, fractures, infections, and injuries of the foot, ankle and heel. In addition to undergraduate medical school training, podiatrists also attend graduate school for a doctorate degree in podiatry. Podiatrists are required to take state and national exams, as well as be licensed by the state in which they practice.

Podiatrists are in demand more than ever today because of a rapidly aging population. In addition, according to the association, foot disorders are among the most widespread and neglected health problems affecting people in this country.

Typically, podiatrists:

Consult with patients and other physicians on how to prevent foot problems.

Diagnose and treat ulcers, fractures, tumors, skin and nail diseases, and deformities.

Prescribe therapies and perform diagnostic procedures such as ultrasound and lab tests.

Prescribe or fits patients with inserts called orthotics that correct walking patterns.

Perform surgeries to correct or remedy foot and anle problems.

Treat conditions such as: bone disorders, bunions, corns, calluses, cysts, heel spurs, infections, ingrown nails, and plantar fasciitis.