Dr. Jeffrey Jensen, DPM
When it comes to foot care, not all doctors are created equal. Before seeking medical treatment for foot pain or other issues related to the feet, it’s important to understand the difference between a podiatrist and an orthopedist.
What is a Podiatrist?
Podiatrists are medical professionals who specialize in treating conditions related to the foot and ankle. Podiatrists are qualified to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases and disorders of the feet. Some common podiatric services include diagnosis and treatment for bunions, heel pain, arthritis, sports injuries, flat feet, diabetic ulcers, fracture care, and providing custom orthotics.
What is an Orthopedist?
Orthopedists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions or injuries of the entire body. Orthopedic surgeons may be consulted for issues related to the foot, ankle, lower leg, or other parts of the body. Common orthopedic services include fracture care, joint replacement surgery, carpal tunnel syndrome, and arthritis treatment.
What is the Best Doctor to See for Foot Pain?
If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort in your feet, the best doctor to consult is a podiatrist. Podiatrists have one focus – the foot and ankle – specialized training in diagnosing and treating all problems with the foot foot and ankle which makes seeing a podiatrist your best option. Orthopedists may also be consulted for other issues such as fractures or joint replacement surgery.
Should You See a Podiatrist or Orthopedic for Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain in adults. This condition is best treated by a podiatrist. Podiatrists are qualified to diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis, leading to improved foot function and reduced pain.
What Problems Do Podiatrists Treat?
In addition to plantar fasciitis, podiatrists can diagnose and provide treatment for a wide range of conditions related to the feet including bunions, heel pain, arthritis, sports injuries, flat feet, diabetic ulcers, and fracture care. Podiatrists can also provide custom orthotics to improve foot function and reduce pain.
Overall, podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the feet specifically, while orthopedists specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders of the body as a whole. For most foot problems, the best doctor to consult is a podiatrist. However, for other serious issues that may be related to other parts of the body, an orthopedist should be consulted.
No matter what type of specialist you are seeing, it’s important to make sure they have specialized training in diagnosing and treating foot problems. This will ensure you receive the best care for your condition. Consulting the right specialist is essential to obtaining relief from your foot pain.
If you are experiencing any kind of discomfort in your feet, consult with a podiatrist or orthopedist to find the right treatment plan for you. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can have relief from pain and improved foot function.
Interest in becoming a podiatric physician? Apply now!