We run around all day, work, and carry the weight of our entire body using our feet, right? But there are times when we don't pay much attention to a little pain, a sprain, or a nail problem in our feet or ankles. But these little problems can sometimes become big. Today we are talking about a doctor who specializes in foot problems and can help us at such times.
Who is this Podiatrist?
Simply put, a podiatrist is a doctor who has received special training in the treatment of problems and diseases of our feet, ankles, and lower legs. Officially, they are called Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). These doctors can help restore the function of your feet, reduce pain, and help you recover quickly after an accident or surgery.
What exactly does a podiatrist do?
These doctors treat a wide range of problems related to our feet and lower legs. For example, if you have a fracture in your leg, they can treat it, prescribe the necessary medications, refer you for physical therapy, and even perform surgery if necessary.
Sometimes, if the feet are affected by another medical condition, podiatrists also work with the primary care physician who is treating the condition.
You can get a good idea of some of the main tasks they perform from the table below.
| The work being done | Examples |
|---|---|
| Diagnosing the disease | Diagnosis of skin and nail diseases, congenital deformities, non-cancerous tumors, and ulcers of the feet. |
| Treatment | Treating conditions such as bunions, heel spurs, arch problems, bone diseases, and fluid-filled cysts. |
| Support processing | In cases of injuries such as sprains or fractures, flexible casts are used to immobilize the foot and ankle. |
| Giving advice | Educating patients about maintaining foot health and preventing problems (preventive foot care). |
| Referral to other specialists | When foot symptoms are suspected to be caused by a disease in another system of the body (e.g. diabetes, heart disease), referral to the relevant specialist is recommended. |
What are the special aspects of this field?
Podiatrists can also use their knowledge to specialize in various sub-fields (subsets).
Sports Medicine
These doctors are specially trained to treat injuries to the feet and ankles that occur during sports or other physical activities. They help athletes maintain strength in their feet and return to play quickly.
Pediatrics
Some podiatrists specialize in treating foot problems in young children. If your child complains of foot pain, your family doctor may refer you to a pediatric podiatrist. Some common problems in children include:
- Ingrown toenails
- Plantar warts (a type of wart that occurs on the soles of the feet)
- A fungal infection that occurs on the soles of the feet and between the toes (Tinea pedis/Athlete's foot)
- Crossover toes
- Swelling and protrusion of the big toe joint ( Bunions )
- Flat feet
- Walking with toes turned inward (Intoed gait)
- Injuries to the growth plates of the ankle and foot
Diabetic Foot Care
This is very important. Diabetes is a disease that can damage many parts of our body, especially our feet. When diabetes damages the nerves and blood vessels in our feet, we can lose sensation in our feet, and even small wounds can become infected without healing.
In some severe cases, these non-healing wounds can even require surgical removal (amputation) of toes, parts of the foot, or the entire lower leg. However, a podiatrist can be a great help to a person with diabetes in maintaining healthy feet and preventing such serious damage. They can educate you on proper foot care and help you identify and treat any problems early.
When should you see a podiatrist?
Think about it, our feet are like shock absorbers that bear our entire weight all day long. So if you have any pain or discomfort in your feet or ankles, don't ignore it.
The table below lists some common situations in which you should see a podiatrist.
| Problem | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Bunions | A painful condition that feels like a lump protruding from the joint of the big toe. |
| Hammertoes | The middle joint of a toe is stuck in one position, bent downward like a hammer. |
| Ingrown toenails | Pain and infection caused by a corner of the nail growing into the skin. |
| Leg sprains (Sprains) | Sprain or tear of ligaments in the ankle or foot joints. |
| Fractures | Cracks or fractures in the bones of the foot or ankle. |
| Infections | Infections of the skin, nails, or wounds of the feet caused by bacteria or fungi. |
If you are about to start exercising again, it is worth seeing a podiatrist for advice to check if your feet can withstand the increased physical activity.
Take-Home Message
- A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in problems with your feet, ankles, and lower legs.
- Don't ignore things like leg pain, numbness, or changes in your nails or skin. There could be a serious underlying cause.
- If you have diabetes, don't neglect your foot care for any reason. Regular foot exams and advice from your doctor are important throughout your life.
- If you have any problems or concerns about your feet, talk to your doctor about it and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist such as a podiatrist.
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