Specialists who deal with the foot and ankle area are known as podiatrists. These experts deal in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of foot problems that include warts, neuroma, calluses, sprains, fractures and heel pain.

Podiatry is subdivided into a variety of fields which include pediatric foot care, surgery, biomechanics as well as diabetic foot care. Late-stage effects of diabetes are peripheral neuropathy and ulcerations of the foot and podiatrists use the most recent technology to heal wounds which may cause infection later on.

They also apply ointments and dressings on the wound. A podiatrist is also able to lessen foot deformities in pediatric patients. This is due to their expertise in biomechanics and the foot and ankle, which are normally abnormalities in foot function, leading to tendonitis and heel pain, among others.

Also these health experts are able to perform foot corrective surgery in the case of ingrown toenails, bunions and hammertoe. In addition, they specialize in amputation of infected parts of the foot. Podiatrists are required to write their own prescriptions, study X-Rays, prescribe therapies and perform diagnostic processes.

A comprehensive education is required before one becomes a podiatrist. First, one must complete a bachelor’s degree program in a university, after which they can transfer to a Podiatric Medical School that offers doctorate studies in Podiatry. Once this doctorate degree has been earned one then proceeds to undergo a hospital-based residence program for about two to three years.

This program tests one’s ability to become a full-time podiatrist and upon successful completion, one has the go-ahead to enjoy full medical and surgical privileges for treating foot and related complications.

A podiatrist is required to have ample knowledge on dermatology, surgery, pharmacology, radiology and neurology since these are linked to the foot and ankle. They should also be competent enough to treat fractures, skin and nail illnesses, ulcers and tumors.

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