A doctor who specializes in foot care is known as a podiatrist. There are several reasons why patients visit podiatrists, including having conditions such as hammertoes, bunions, and plantar fasciitis. Research has shown that the feet often show early signs of other conditions that may be present in the body, which may include diabetes and heart disease. People who choose to pursue this field of medicine as a career will need to obtain a bachelor’s degree, followed by attending a podiatry school for four years. A residency is then completed, which precedes obtaining a license. Podiatrists can work in a private or group practice or specialize in specific areas which can include sports medicine and diabetic foot care. If you are considering a career in podiatry, it is beneficial to speak with a podiatrist who can help you to determine if this is the right choice for you.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact John McGhan, DPM from Gold Canyon Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gold Canyon, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.