Quite a lot of people experience lower leg or ankle pain. They might be walking from Ruthven Street to Mackenzie Street when it hits them. Hardly a handful of folks know that medical specialists attend to these particular health concerns. They are known as podiatrists. Podiatrists are renowned for treating health concerns related to lower leg issues majorly caused by diabetes. Since around 4.8% of males and 3.8% of females undergo this jeopardising health issue, it is essential to stay in touch with a podiatrist. If you are someone residing in or around Bondi Junction, then you would be delighted to know that the availability of a podiatrist in Bondi Junction is quite high. A podiatrist is often referred to as a podiatric physician or doctor of podiatric medicine.
Are Podiatrists Doctors?
Though podiatrists are considered doctors, they don’t go to regular medical school but to schools and professional associations specially designed for them. Another notable difference is podiatrists have ‘DPM’ or Doctor of Podiatric Medicine instead of ‘MD’ (Medical Doctor) before their names.
Speaking of their doings, a podiatrist in Bondi Junction or anywhere across the world can perform surgeries, reconstruct broken bones, prescribe drugs, and order X-rays or lab tests. Podiatrists often associate with other specialists to deal with issues related to the lower leg or feet.
Educational Requirement to Become a Podiatrist
Students interested in becoming podiatrists take up the combination of chemistry, biology, and physics or the science stream in general. Most people pursue a bachelor’s in biology or a related science field in college. Following that, they pursue podiatry courses for four years.
They learn about the mechanisms of bones and nerves and how the muscles function to boost bodily movement. Their education also involves examining the illnesses and injuries that might affect one’s feet. Their diagnosis also includes treating any serious health concern through surgery.
What Conditions Can a Podiatrist Treat?
A podiatrist can treat any person regardless of their age. The conditions include the following:
- Fractures or Sprains: Treating a fracture or a sprain you sustained from that fall at Waverley Park is a regular task for podiatrists. They work with athletes and treat their foot issues.
- Bunions and Hammertoes: These terms are associated with bone-related issues of your foot. A bunion is a condition when your big toe’s joint enlarges or is dislocated. As a result of this, the big toe inclines towards the other toes. A hammertoe, on the other hand, does not curve correctly.
- Nail Disorders: A nail disorder is an infectious condition caused by ingrown toenails or fungi. You might notice a nail disorder when the part of the nail extends into your toe instead of straightening out.
- Diabetes: Diabetes is a major reason behind the damage the nerves in the lower extremities since they don’t receive adequate blood. The fact is that 65,000+ people need to get their feet amputated every year due to diabetes. Don’t miss out on your podiatrist appointments.
- Arthritis: Arthritis occurs due to inflammation and deterioration of the joints. Each foot comprises 33 joints. A podiatrist will help you by prescribing therapy, medication, and special shoes to prevent arthritis.
If you are someone who has been experiencing foot pain, discoloured or thick toenails, growth-like warts, scaling or peeling on the soles, heel pain, and any growing pain on your foot, don’t rely on the internet or books from the Waverley Library to self-diagnose. Visit your podiatrist today.