Podiatrists (aka doctors of podiatric medicine) are medical specialists with a focus on foot and lower leg pathologies. There are many different causes for low back, leg, ankle or foot pain that can disrupt your daily life. Podiatrists specialize in the evaluation and treatment of this pain from trauma, diseases, chronic conditions, and poor gait amongst other outside influences. Some of these problems can be difficult for other doctors and specialists to spot. Podiatrists are trained to help you keep your mobility, which can also prevent hospitalization and prolong your lifespan. For these reasons, other doctors may refer you to a doctor of podiatric medicine.
Are podiatrists surgically trained?
In general, podiatrists are indeed surgically trained. Please keep in mind, surgery is typically a last resort for most medical problems.
Can a podiatrist write prescriptions?
Yes. Podiatrists are trained at least as long as your primary care physician, and sometimes longer before they are permitted to practice.
Podiatrists are licensed by the DEA for all prescriptions the same as other MD or DO specialists.
What does a podiatrist offer that other doctors do not?
It is true that the studies of podiatrists overlap with that of many other specialties. Many proclaim that podiatrists are a first-line care provider similar to your family care or primary care physician. However, podiatrists also explore the fields of biomechanics and kinesiology – the study of the functions of the human body during movement. This is not typically studied in even the most disciplined medical schools. We hope to incorporate all aspects of years of training to keep you as mobile and pain-free as possible.