Quick Answer: Who Is Best To Treat Ankle Problems Orthopedist Or Podiatrist?

Should I see a podiatrist or orthopedist for ankle pain?

As a general guideline, if you have an injury, condition, or symptoms affecting your foot or ankle health, it’s best to see a podiatrist. If you have an injury, condition, or symptoms affecting any other part of your musculoskeletal system, it’s best to see an orthopedic physician.

Do podiatrists treat ankles?

Both podiatrists and orthopaedic surgeons are qualified to treat foot and ankle conditions, surgically and non-surgically.

What kind of doctor should I see for ankle pain?

For foot and ankle care, podiatrists and orthopedists are both qualified medical specialists you can consult. The best choice is to go for a podiatrist who has extensive experience diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot and ankle disorders.

When should I see a podiatrist or orthopedist?

Specific to problems in the extremities, orthopedists may turn their attention to the underlying bones, ligaments, muscles and tendons. The majority of those who experience foot and ankle disorders usually opt to see podiatrists for their initial care.

Do podiatrists treat plantar fasciitis?

The pain of plantar fasciitis can sometimes be confused with heel spurs or tarsal tunnel syndrome. Your podiatrist can provide the correct diagnosis for any foot pain you are suffering.

What is the difference between a podiatrist and a foot and ankle specialist?

The primary and most important difference is the level of training each completes. Altogether, a foot and ankle surgeon will have 10+ years of training. Podiatrists attend podiatry school for four years followed by a 2-3 year residency. Altogether, a podiatrist will have 6-7 years of training.

Can podiatrist perform surgery?

Podiatrists can do surgery, reset broken bones, prescribe drugs, and order lab tests or X-rays. They often work closely with other specialists when a problem affects your feet or lower legs. In the U.S., podiatrists are licensed and regulated by state governments.

Why are my ankles stiff and painful?

They can get inflamed from arthritis, overuse, high-heeled shoes, recent footwear changes, or starting workouts again after time off. Your ankle may feel stiff, tender, warm, and swollen. The best treatment is RICE: rest, ice, compression and elevation. Take anti-inflammatory drugs to ease the pain and swelling.

Should I see a podiatrist for Achilles tendonitis?

If you’re experiencing Achilles tendonitis, you should definitely seek the assistance of a professional podiatrist who is trained to understand the causes and remedies for this discomfort.

Can an orthopedic doctor treat plantar fasciitis?

An orthopedic specialist may be able to offer valuable insight into treatment options, especially if your plantar fasciitis is severe or there are other underlying problems with your joints and tissues.

What does a podiatrist do on first visit?

On your first visit, the podiatrist will obtain a thorough medical history to help identify possible areas of concern that may lead to or worsen foot and leg problems. Be prepared with any important medical records and information on the following: Current medical problems, medications and allergies. Past surgeries.

Can a podiatrist help with foot pain?

Podiatrists are healthcare professionals who have been trained to diagnose and treat abnormal conditions of the feet and lower limbs. They also prevent and correct deformity, keep people mobile and active, relieve pain and treat infections.

What does a podiatrist do for your feet?

Podiatrists are experts at treating sprains, strains, and broken bones in the foot or the ankle. They can diagnose your injury and suggest treatment. A podiatrist can also create a flexible cast to help the area heal.

Is a podiatrist a real doctor?

A podiatrist is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), known also as a podiatric physician or surgeon, qualified by their education and training to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and related structures of the leg.

When should I see a podiatrist for foot pain?

See a podiatrist if you have foot pain or injury. Get urgent medical care if you have any of these symptoms for more than one or two days: severe pain. swelling.