FAQS

What is a podiatrist?
A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) practices the medical, surgical and
biomechanical treatment of the human foot, ankle and associated structures. Although we specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of problems affecting the foot and ankle, Doctors of Podiatric Medicine are also highly trained health care providers. We see people of all ages and are often the first medical specialists to diagnose systemic problems that affect the feet and ankles such as diabetes, gout, hypertension, immunodeficiencies and arthritis. Podiatric physicians (podiatrists) are the only medical professionals who exclusively specialize in treating the foot and ankle.

What services does a podiatrist provide?

Diagnoses lower extremity pathology such as tumors, ulcers, fractures, skin and nail diseases and congenital and acquired deformities.
Makes independent judgments, prescribes medications, utilizes x-rays, MRI, ultrasound and other laboratory tests for diagnostic purposes and orders physical therapy.
Treats conditions such as: corns, calluses, bunions, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, ingrown nails, cysts, bone disorders and infections of the foot.
Fits corrective inserts called orthotics that address walking patterns to improve the overall ability of effective and efficient ambulation.
Provides consultations for the patient and for referring physicians regarding prevention of podiatric problems and possible treatments.
Performs surgical correction of the foot including: hammertoes, clawtoes, bunions, fractures, infections, neuromas, ruptured ligaments, tendons, and neuro-vascular abnormalities of the foot.

Are my shoes causing my foot disorders?
Usually a foot disorder is already present and shoes can aggravate it. Some examples are bunions, hammertoes, ingrown nails and bony prominences (spurs).

How does arthritis affect my feet?
Arthritis is a disease of the joints and there are about 30 joints in each foot. If any joint is out of alignment or has abnormal motion, arthritis can set in. This kind of arthritis can wear the cartilage out and lead to pain. Supportive shoes, shoe inserts, and medication can help ease the painful arthritic foot.

How does diabetes affect my feet?
Diabetes can affect blood flow and nerves in the feet. If the tissues have been damaged, it is very difficult to heal a wound and fight infection. The nerve damage is called neuropathy (numbness) and you can "walk a hole (ulcer) in the foot" and not even know it. The most important thing a diabetic can do is check feet daily for changes.