Yes, they are doctors except that they do not go through the traditional medical training or schools. They have the initial DPM after their names as opposed to Medical Doctor (MD) that applies to other medical professionals. Like other doctors, Podiatrist Athens GA can perform surgeries, correct broken bones, order X-rays, Lab tests and prescribe drugs. Ideally, they work closely with general doctors and other medical experts to help resolve any problem affecting the limbs. In many countries, podiatrists are licensed and regulated by state agencies.
Basic Education and Training
For you to enroll in a podiatric class, you will need to have biology, chemistry, physics alongside other key areas in order to ready yourself for training. You can enroll for a bachelor’s degree or a diploma training. If you hold a bachelor in biology or other related sciences, you may go to a podiatry school for4 years.
During the study, you will learn the structure and functioning of bones, muscles, nerves and how they coordinate to help one move. They are also exposed to trainings on common illnesses and injuries that affect the bones, and how to resolve them using either surgery or drug prescription. Upon completing the course, prospective podiatrists may be required to pass a licensing test in order to get approval for practice. In addition, they may have to undergo a residency program, which involves being attached to a hospital for at least 3 years. They also work with other types of doctors such as pediatricians, anesthesiologists, surgeons, and other specialty doctors from across the field. One can also opt to go for an advanced training or certifications in surgeries of the feet and the lower parts of the limbs.
What Conditions Do Podiatrists Treat?
Podiatrists treat a number both children and elderly people of a number of feet-related conditions, including the following:
They work with orthopedic doctors and in sports medicine, treating foot-related problems that may affect sports people and athletes. They also recommend solutions to conditions such as bunions and hammertoes and offer advice on how people can avoid them.
Disorders of the Nail. These may include infections by the fungus or ingrown nails (where a section of the nail grows inwardly instead of right straight out).
Diabetes: This is a condition that is perhaps becoming increasingly popular, not only among the elderly people, but also in children. It is known to damage the nerves in the feet, which causes less blood to circulate to the feet. If you have callus or sores on your feet, you may have to see a podiatrist to check for diabetes. Other conditions, may include arthritis and persistent pain in the toes or feet, heel pain and overpronation. For any of the above conditions, check a reliable and experienced Podiatrist Athens GA for help today and restore the quality of your life.
