WHAT IS PODIATRY?
Podiatric medicine focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot and ankle problems. If a condition is diagnosed as requiring surgery, your podiatrist (doctor of podiatric medicine) will explain the procedure in detail and discuss with you the best course of action. Your podiatrist is highly trained through years of study and clinical practice, including a bachelor’s degree program and four years of podiatric medical school. Podiatrists may also have one or more years of residency training, studying other aspects of foot care and surgery. Podiatrists continue to stay informed about the latest research and developments in the field. In treating your feet, your podiatrist may also work with your other health care providers to give you appropriate and comprehensive care.
Footnote
A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) obtains an education which differs from that of a Medical Doctor (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathy (DO), receiving intense, specific training in the treatment of diseases, injuries and congenital problems of the foot, ankle and lower leg.
WHEN IS SURGERY REQUIRED?
For many foot and ankle conditions, your podiatrist may prescribe non-surgical treatments such as medication, custom-made shoe inserts, exercises, and rest. However, after carefully reviewing your specific condition and personal medical history, in some cases surgery may be the best option to relieve pain, regain function and range of movement, and/or to improve the look and feel of the foot.
BEFORE SURGERY
Before your surgery, your podiatrist will take the time to carefully explain the surgical procedure and answer any questions you may have. Many surgical procedures on the foot or ankle may be done right in your podiatrist’s office. You may be instructed to have someone drive you home following the surgery.
AFTER SURGERY
Depending on your surgery, you may have to wear a splint, cast, or surgical shoe. You will be told how to care for the point of surgery and how soon you may start walking on the foot again. Until the foot can bear weight, you may need to walk with crutches or a cane. After your surgery, it is very important to follow your doctor’s instructions, take any prescribed medications, and see your doctor for all post-surgery follow-up visits.
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