Often asked: Which Is Better Podiatrist Or Orthopedist?

DO orthopedic doctors treat feet?

Both podiatrists and orthopaedic surgeons are qualified to treat foot and ankle conditions, surgically and non-surgically.

What kind of doctor do I see for foot pain?

A podiatrist, also called a doctor of podiatric medicine, is a specialist who provides medical diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle problems, including, but not limited to sprains and fractures, bunions, heel pain /spurs, hammertoes, neuromas, ingrown toenails, warts, corns and calluses.

What is the difference between a podiatrist and an orthopedist?

Orthopedic surgeons and podiatrists work side by side in hospitals and in the same group practices. The main difference lies in the body systems they treat. Orthopedic surgeons are concerned with bones, muscles, ligaments and joints throughout the body. Podiatrists are foot and ankle doctors and surgeons.

Can an orthopedist help with foot pain?

Foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons are able to effectively treat complex lower extremity conditions in conjunction with the rest of your body. They specifically evaluate foot problems but can also review other orthopedic issues that may be contributing to foot and ankle pain.

Can an orthopedic doctor treat plantar fasciitis?

An orthopedic specialist may be able to offer valuable insight into treatment options, especially if your plantar fasciitis is severe or there are other underlying problems with your joints and tissues.

What is the difference between a podiatrist and a foot and ankle specialist?

The primary and most important difference is the level of training each completes. Altogether, a foot and ankle surgeon will have 10+ years of training. Podiatrists attend podiatry school for four years followed by a 2-3 year residency. Altogether, a podiatrist will have 6-7 years of training.

Should I see my primary doctor for foot pain?

If you regularly experience sore, tired, aching or swollen feet, it may be time to see a doctor. Foot pain may be caused by a variety of factors from arthritis to poorly fitting shoes to plantar fasciitis. Sometimes foot pain can indicate an underlying medical condition like diabetes that needs to be addressed.

Can a podiatrist do surgery?

Podiatrists can do surgery, reset broken bones, prescribe drugs, and order lab tests or X-rays. They often work closely with other specialists when a problem affects your feet or lower legs.

What does a podiatrist do on first visit?

On your first visit, the podiatrist will obtain a thorough medical history to help identify possible areas of concern that may lead to or worsen foot and leg problems. Be prepared with any important medical records and information on the following: Current medical problems, medications and allergies. Past surgeries.

Are podiatrist real doctors?

Podiatrists are defined as physicians by the federal government. A DPM is a specialist in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of lower extremity disorders, diseases and injuries.

How much money does a foot doctor make?

California average podiatrist salary: $120,750.

What kind of surgeries do Podiatrists perform?

Surgical Procedures

• Foot and Ankle Surgical Procedures. Surgery on the foot, ankle or lower leg is usually performed by podiatric surgeons and orthopedic surgeons specializing in the foot and ankle.
• Achilles Surgery.
• Arthritis Surgery.
• Cyst Removal.
• Heel Surgery.
• Nerve Surgery (Neuroma)

Can a podiatrist help with foot pain?

Podiatrists are healthcare professionals who have been trained to diagnose and treat abnormal conditions of the feet and lower limbs. They also prevent and correct deformity, keep people mobile and active, relieve pain and treat infections.

What does a podiatrist do for your feet?

Podiatrists are experts at treating sprains, strains, and broken bones in the foot or the ankle. They can diagnose your injury and suggest treatment. A podiatrist can also create a flexible cast to help the area heal.

When should I see a podiatrist for foot pain?

If you have any issues that involve the foot and or ankle—a sports injury, arthritis/joint pain, skin problems, etc. —a visit to the podiatrist is your best bet. A podiatrist is a specialist who manages and treats almost all symptoms that involve the ankle and/or the foot.