What Do Podiatrists Treat?
Podiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a variety of conditions that affect the feet, ankles, and even the lower part of the leg. Podiatrists sometimes concentrate on different areas such as pediatrics, surgery, geriatrics, diseases or sports medicine. Most podiatrists earn special board certification and practice in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, private practice and the military. These doctors treat virtually any problem that afflicts the foot and ankle areas.
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Disease-Related
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Diseases like AIDS, diabetes, and heart disease often cause foot ailments that must be treated with therapy, surgery or prescription drugs rather than over the counter medications.
Nail and Skin Infections
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Ingrown toenails, plantar warts, athlete's foot and toenail fungus are common afflictions podiatrists treat.
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Acquired Abnormalities
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Foot deformities that slowly develop over time such as bunions, corns, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis are commonplace in a podiatrist's office.
Injuries
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Sports or accidental injuries of the feet and ankles, particularly to the soft tissues, tendons, and bones require a podiatrist's care.
Congenital Defects
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People born with club feet, flat feet, intoeing (sometimes known as pigeon toes), and other abnormalities often require surgery, physical therapy, or special orthotics that only a podiatrist can prescribe.
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