A foot doctor is also known as a podiatrist. Many older patients may also refer to them as a chiropodist. While the terms are often used interchangeably, a podiatrist is the more modern and widely accepted term.
Understanding the Terms
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Podiatrist: A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM) who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle conditions. They receive extensive training in foot and ankle care, including surgery. [Source: WebMD, Cleveland Clinic]
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Chiropodist: This is an older term for a foot doctor, now largely replaced by "podiatrist." The two terms are essentially synonymous. [Source: Essex Union Podiatry, Vocabulary.com]
When to See a Podiatrist
You should see a podiatrist for a variety of foot and ankle problems, including:
- Bunions
- Ingrown toenails
- Plantar fasciitis
- Diabetic foot care
- Ankle sprains
- Foot surgery
Podiatrists vs. Other Specialists
While podiatrists focus exclusively on the foot and ankle, other specialists may also treat foot-related issues depending on the nature of the problem:
- Orthopedists: These doctors specialize in musculoskeletal conditions, including those affecting the feet and ankles, but often handle more complex cases or issues extending beyond the lower leg. [Source: West Idaho Orthopedics, Joint Replacement Institute]
It's important to note that podiatrists are medical doctors with specialized training in foot and ankle care. [Source: Merriam-Webster]
