A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist. This is the doctor to see if you have a foot injury or persistent symptoms such as pain or an abnormal growth in the lower extremity.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the role of podiatrists, what sets them apart from other healthcare professionals, the conditions they treat, the unique treatments they provide, and the benefits of seeking out their services.
What Does a Podiatrist Do and What Sets Them Apart?
Podiatrists are medical professionals specializing in diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions related to the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. They study and train to become qualified to treat patients with podiatry issues. They are uniquely trained to address the biomechanics of the feet and lower limbs, as well as the intricate structures and functions specific to this area of the body.
What sets podiatrists apart from other providers who can administer treatment to acute foot conditions is their exclusive focus on foot and ankle health. This allows them to develop extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of podiatry. Their focus means they have seen it all, from severe to rare cases, and have finely tuned their skill in diagnostics and treatment.
Conditions Treated by Podiatrists
Podiatrists diagnose and treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, which include but are not limited to:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bunions
- Ingrown toenails
- Heel pain
- Achilles tendonitis
- Neuromas
- Flat feet
- Foot and ankle fractures
- Sports-related injuries
- Diabetic foot complications
What Unique Treatments Are Provided by Podiatrists?
The treatments provided by a podiatrist may be unavailable at other healthcare providers’ clinics. Some of the treatments they offer are:
Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Exams
Podiatrists perform comprehensive examinations to evaluate foot and ankle health, including assessing range of motion, gait analysis, and the patient’s unique foot structure.
Orthotic Prescription
Podiatrists may recommend and provide custom orthotic devices, such as shoe inserts or braces, to support and correct foot mechanics. Custom orthotics are only available at a podiatry clinic, as the patients’ foot is measured and impressions are taken to create the custom orthotic.
Foot and Ankle Surgery
Podiatrists are trained in surgical procedures specific to the foot and ankle, such as bunionectomy, hammertoe correction, arthroscopic debridement, joint fusion, and joint replacement.
Diabetic Foot Management
Podiatrists specialize in managing wounds, ulcers, and complications associated with diabetes, offering specialized treatments and preventive strategies to preserve a patient’s limb.
Podiatric Sports Injury
Podiatrists can also work with sports medicine doctors to address foot and ankle injuries that can occur from sports and exercise. Foot injuries are very common among athletes and collaboration is critical for the benefit of athletes and weekend warriors in helping them regain optimal foot health and return to their sport.
What are the Benefits of Seeking a Podiatrist’s Expertise?
A podiatrist is an expert on all things related to the foot and ankle. Some of the advantages you can get are:
- Specialized Foot and Ankle Knowledge: Podiatrists possess in-depth knowledge of foot and ankle anatomy, conditions, and treatment options, enabling accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans.
- Preventive Care: Podiatrists emphasize preventive measures to maintain foot health, such as proper footwear, foot hygiene, and other strategies to avoid complications.
- Holistic Approach: Podiatrists consider the overall health and well-being of patients, recognizing the interconnectedness between foot health and systemic conditions like diabetes or arthritis. As such, they treat patients who have lower extremity symptoms related to such health problems, like diabetic foot.
- Collaborative Care: Podiatrists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists, as well as sports medicine doctors to provide comprehensive care for patients.
Experienced Podiatrist in Naples, FL
Dr. Cody Togher is our board-certified and fellowship trained podiatrist at the Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, Florida. Dr. Togher is dedicated to helping you get better and getting you back on your feet.
To schedule an appointment, call us today at (239) 261-2663 or use our convenient online request form.
