Podiatrists specialize in foot conditions.
Podiatrists are medical practitioners who specialize in disorders of the foot and ankle. Podiatrists commonly earn a four-year undergraduate degree followed by four years of specialist training at a college of podiatric medicine, gaining a graduate degree as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). Podiatrists are qualified to treat many conditions, but they see some with the greatest frequency.
Bunions
This is a painful and common foot deformity. It appears as a lump on the side of the big toe, at its largest joint, and signals that the toe has begun to point inward. It is usually due to an inherited weakness in the foot’s structure but can be exacerbated by bad footwear. Podiatrists can monitor the progress of a bunion and recommend treatment such as better shoes, pads, changes in activity and in some cases orthotic devices. A podiatrist will also be able to advise patients if they should seek surgical treatment.
Flatfoot
Flatfoot occurs when the natural arch of a person’s foot collapses, most commonly when standing or walking. The deformity can be due to arthritis or to excessive weight and can cause painful stretching and tearing in the soft tissues of the foot if left untreated. Podiatrists can recommend support for flatfoot such as shoe modifications and can tell a patient when surgery for the condition is indicated.
Hammertoes
Hammertoes are caused by a contraction of the middle joints of the toes, causing them to curl under. This may in turn cause the toes to rub against footwear and develop corns and calluses. Podiatrists caution that early treatment of hammertoes is important to correct the fault before the toes become inflexible. Hammertoes can potentially be corrected by splinting to bring about realignment.
Achilles Tendinitis
This painful heel condition is often suffered by runners and other athletes. It is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which runs from the muscles of the calf and attaches at the base of the heel. Podiatrists can recommend a course of rest, stretching and anti-inflammatory treatment to improve the condition.
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