A Podiatrist/Chiropodist attends a single track Podiatric Medical School, where medicine, surgery, immunology, radiology and pathomechanics are among the subjects studied. The modern Podiatrist/Chiropodist is uniquely placed to provide comprehensive footcare.
Podiatrist/Chiropodists are primary care providers and are therefore qualified to assess, diagnose, prescribe and carry out treatments including minor surgical procedures, therapeutic treatments including: laser, ultrasound, iontophoresis, extracorporeal shock wave therapy and electrical treatments.
Podiatric training involves extensive didactic and clinical aspects of normal and pathological mechanics of the lower limb. Additionally Podiatrist/Chiropodists are trained in the casting and "dressing" of orthoses and subsequent fabrication of functional and accommodative orthotic devices. Lower limb biomechanics is the domain of Podiatry, who originated the concept of orthoses and continues to lead the way in improving foot function through orthoses.
When You Should Visit Your Podiatrist
Podiatric Medical Care
If pain and other symptoms of inflammation—redness, swelling, heat—persist, you should limit normal daily activities and contact a doctor of podiatric medicine.
The podiatric physician wiil examine the area and may perform diagnostic X rays to rule out problems of the bone.
Early treatment might involve oral or injectable anti-inflammatory medication, exercise and shoe recommendations, taping or strapping, or use of shoe inserts or orthotic devices. Taping or strapping supports the foot, placing stressed muscles and tendons in a physiologically restful state. Physical therapy may be used in conjunction with such treatments.
A functional orthotic device may be prescribed for correcting biomechanical imbalance, controlling excessive pronation, and supporting of the ligaments and tendons attaching to the heel bone. It will effectively treat the majority of heel and arch pain without the need for surgery. |
