When You Should See A Podiatrist
Have you ever wondered what sets foot doctors apart from other types of doctors? Dennis Fassman, DPM, your Westburypodiatrist, is here to share a few facts about foot specialists.
What are foot doctors?
Foot doctors, also called podiatrists, are specially trained to treat problems of the feet, ankles, and the lower legs. Although other doctors may treat minor foot or ankle problems, they don't have the in-depth knowledge and experience that podiatrists possess about foot, ankle and lower leg conditions. Foot doctors not only prescribe medications and treatments, but also perform surgery, depending on the severity of the problem. Foot doctors treat people of all ages, from infants to senior citizens.
What kind of training do foot doctors receive?
After graduating from a college or university, foot doctors attend a podiatric medical school, dedicated to the study, diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle problems. Upon completion, they receive their Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) degrees and spend the next several years completing residencies to hone their skills.
What types of conditions do foot doctors treat?
Foot doctors offer treatment for a variety of foot, ankle and lower leg conditions, including:
- Fungal infections
- Plantar warts
- Ingrown toenails
- Broken bones
- Stress fractures
- Sprains
- Injuries
- Infections
- Clubfoot
- Achilles tendon problems
- Gout
- Arthritis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Diabetic foot issues and infections
- Bursitis
- Retrocalcaneal bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
When should I see my Westbury foot doctor?
Many foot conditions and injuries get better if you put ice on them, take over-the-counter pain relievers and rest. If your pain continues, or you notice bleeding, redness, inability to put weight on your foot or ankle, red streaks, pus, strange bumps or lumps on your joints, or any other symptoms that seem unusual, it's time to make an appointment with your Kirkland foot doctor.