Q: What's the difference between a podiatrist and an orthopedic doctor?

A podiatrist is a specialist who only see patients suffering with foot or ankle diseases and deformities. Because podiatry is so narrowly focused on the feet , practitioners must be board certified by either the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM) or the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). In contrast, an orthopedic doctor (also know as an orthopedist) deals with multiple joints, limbs, and muscles in the body. Because of their broad scope, orthopedists are not considered specialists in the area of foot and ankle medicine, but do receive training to handle certian types of fractures and medical conditions in the feet.

Question 1

What exactly does a podiatrist do?

Accepted Answer

A podiatrist is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) who specializes in the diagnoses and treatment of conditions related to the feet or ankles. They can administer prescription drugs and are capable of performing minor or complex surgical procedures on patients.

Podiatrists are commonly refered to as foot & ankle doctors, or simply foot doctors.

Question 2

What conditions does a podiatrist treat?

Accepted Answer

Generally speaking, any pain experienced below the knee can be treated by a podiatrist. These include, but are not limited to:

Achilles Tendonitis
Plantar Fasciitis
Toenail Fungus
Heel Spurs
Shin Splints
Broken Toes
Broken Ankle
Foot Gout
Flat Foot
Foot Warts & Corns
Ingrown Toenails
Bunions
Orthotics

Question 3

What's the difference between a podiatrist and an orthopedic doctor?

Accepted Answer

A podiatrist is a specialist who only see patients suffering with foot or ankle diseases and deformities. Because podiatry is so narrowly focused on the feet, practitioners must be board certified by either the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM) or the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).

In contrast, an orthopedic doctor (also know as an orthopedist) deals with multiple joints, limbs, and muscles in the body. Because of their broad scope, orthopedists are not considered specialists in the area of foot and ankle medicine, but do receive training to handle certian types of fractures and medical conditions in the feet.

Question 4

When should I see a podiatrist vs. an orthopedist or other  specialist for foot pain?

Accepted Answer

If you are experiencing any pain in your feet or ankles, a podiatrist should be the first point of contact. As a specialist, podiatrists can more easily, quickly, and effectively treat foot related diseases and conditions.

However, when necessary, a podiatrist will provide patients with a referral to see an orthopedist, rehab specialist, chiropractor, or massage therapist if their diagnoses requires those additional services.

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