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A podiatrist is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), also known as a podiatric physician or surgeon. They are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Here are some key points about podiatrists:
- Education and Training:
- To become a podiatrist, a candidate must complete the following steps:
- Obtain an undergraduate degree.
- Attend four years of podiatric medical school.
- Undergo a three-year hospital residency program.
- This rigorous training equips them with the expertise to diagnose and treat various foot and ankle conditions.
- To become a podiatrist, a candidate must complete the following steps:
- Scope of Practice:
- Podiatric physicians work independently and are qualified to:
- Diagnose and treat lower extremity disorders, diseases, and injuries.
- Utilize x-rays and laboratory tests for diagnostic purposes.
- Prescribe medications, order physical therapy, set fractures, and perform surgery.
- Collaborate with other health professionals to treat and control disease.
- They may specialize in areas such as surgery, orthopedics, or public health, and practice subspecialties like sports medicine, pediatrics, dermatology, and diabetic foot care.
- Podiatric physicians work independently and are qualified to:
- Role in Healthcare:
- Podiatrists play a crucial role in detecting symptoms of conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease due to the foot’s interrelation with the rest of the body.
- In an average day, a DPM may:
- Provide individual consultations for disorders and preventive foot care.
- Diagnose foot ailments such as tumors, ulcers, fractures, skin or nail diseases, and congenital or acquired deformities.
- Use innovative methods to treat conditions like corns, calluses, bunions, heel spurs, and more.
- Design corrective orthotics, plaster casts, and strappings.
- Correct walking patterns and balance to promote efficient movement.
- Certification and Licensing:
- Podiatrists are licensed in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
- They can become certified in primary care and orthopedics, or surgery, by meeting specified educational requirements and passing examinations.