Podiatrists are highly trained professionals that can treat a wide range of foot and ankle issues. However, many people don’t know what to expect during their podiatric exam or visit.
Before your appointment, write down a list of questions or concerns you have for your Podiatrist Santo Domingo. These tips will help ensure that your doctor has all the information they need to give you the best treatment possible.
1. What is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a medical doctor who is specially trained to diagnose and treat problems of the feet and ankles. They can perform surgery, prescribe medications and X-rays, reset broken bones, and more.
Those who are good at this career tend to enjoy research, thinking, searching for facts, and problem-solving. They also like interacting with people and helping others. A podiatrist can work in a hospital, GP office or private practice.
2. What is a Podiatric Exam?
If you have pain or discomfort in your feet or ankles, a podiatrist can perform physical examinations to find the source of the problem. They can also order MRIs or CT scans to get a better look at the problem area and recommend treatment.
Your feet say a lot about your overall health. They can tell you about nutritional deficiencies, a lung disease or bruising, among other things.
3. What is a Podiatric Diagnosis?
Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) are physicians and surgeons who specialize in the foot, ankle and lower leg. They diagnose and treat disorders of the bones, joints, skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, circulation and nerves of the lower extremity.
A podiatrist can also provide orthotics, shoe inserts that help with foot and leg alignment for better comfort and function. Their specialized education, training and expertise allow them to assess your condition, diagnose your problem and treat it effectively.
4. What is a Podiatric Treatment?
If you suffer from shin splints, a condition caused by the stress of running on hard surfaces or tight shoes, podiatrists can prescribe you medication or orthoses. These are inserts that support the arches of your feet for better foot and lower leg function and less pain.
A podiatrist can also help you with conditions such as ingrown toenails. These can cause irritation and infection if not treated.
5. What is a Podiatric Surgery?
Podiatric surgery is the surgical treatment of problems that affect the bones, joints or soft tissues of your foot and ankle. For example, podiatrists can perform Achilles tendon surgery to repair a ruptured or damaged tendon.
They can also perform bunion surgery to remove a bony bump called a bunion that forces your toes to stick out, causing pain. They work closely with vascular consultants, orthopaedic surgeons and radiologists.
6. What is a Podiatric Rehabilitation?
Whether you are an athlete prone to injury or someone looking to prevent future problems, your podiatrist can help. They can provide preventive measures and injury rehabilitation to get you back in the game quickly and safely.
Volunteer or work in a medical setting during breaks or summers to gain experience and learn about the career. Also, shadow podiatrists and attend college open houses.
7. What is a Podiatric Medication?
Podiatrists can prescribe medications to treat diseases, disorders, physical injuries and deformities of the foot and ankle. They may also prescribe a variety of other treatments to include pain relievers, orthotic inserts and physical therapy.
Foot pain is often a sign of a serious medical condition and it’s important to visit a podiatrist as soon as possible. Their trained eyes can identify the root of the problem and provide treatment that will alleviate your discomfort.
8. What is a Podiatric Treatment for Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails are a common problem that occurs when the corner or side of the nail becomes embedded into the skin next to it. This condition can be painful and cause infection if left untreated.
Podiatrists can treat ingrown toenails by removing the excess tissue under local anaesthetic. This helps to relieve the pressure on the toe and prevent future problems.
9. What is a Podiatric Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis?
A podiatrist can provide a number of treatment options for heel pain. These can include shoe inserts, icing, stretching and massage of the foot and calf.
If a person’s heel pain is severe and does not improve with conservative treatments, they should consider consulting a podiatrist. This will help them return to their normal activities. Treatment can also include physical therapy.
10. What is a Podiatric Treatment for Achilles Tendinitis?
Achilles tendinitis is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the heel of your lower leg. It can be caused by overuse, such as long distance running or jumping.
A podiatrist can treat your Achilles tendinitis by using various techniques. These include ice and rest, a heel lift or wedge to decrease strain on the tendon, stretching and physical therapy, and shockwave therapy.