What Is a Podiatrist?
When you see the letters DPM after your doctor’s name, it indicates that he or she is a podiatrist. A podiatrist is a special doctor who diagnoses and treat conditions of the foot, ankle, and other structures of the leg. Your podiatrist has completed years of difficult and challenging training, and he or she is uniquely qualified to care for you.
What Are the Qualifications of a Podiatrist?
Podiatrists undergo medical training similar to that of other doctors. Your podiatrist has completed four years of education in a specialized medical school, as well as another three years of hospital residency. Many podiatrists have subspecialties, just as other doctors do. These can include surgery, sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care.
Your podiatrist is the most qualified health care professional to take care of your feet.
What Does a Podiatrist Treat?
bunions
orthotics
diabetes
foot and ankle injuries
heel pain
toenail fungus
warts
hammertoes
ingrown toenails
corns and calluses
sports injuries
Do Podiatrists Perform Surgery?
Podiatrists can usually perform surgery on the bones, ligaments, tendons and joints of the foot and ankle. They can surgically address needs around bunions, neuromas, hammertoes, plantar fascia release, ankle ligament reconstruction, and more.
When Should I Visit a Podiatrist?
If you experience sudden, acute or ongoing foot and/or ankle pain, or if there have been changes in the look or feel of your feet, you should make an appointment to see a podiatrist as soon as possible. It’s also a good idea to schedule periodic well visits with your podiatrist, especially if you are living with a medical condition such as diabetes. These can lead to chronic foot and ankle problems.
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.