A podiatric doctor expert, or a podiatrist, is a medical specialist who focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions related to the foot and ankle. Podiatry is a branch of medicine that specifically deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions, disorders and diseases of the foot, ankle and lower leg. They are able to diagnose a wide range of foot related issues ranging from bunions and ingrown toenails to foot deformities and foot ulcers.
The treatments that a podiatrist provides can range from prescribing medications, performing surgery, or providing physical therapy to help with mobility and pain management. They may also provide custom orthotics to help with foot pain or deformity. Additionally, podiatrists may provide ankle braces and shoe inserts to help with any foot and ankle related issues.
Unlike an orthopedic surgeon, a podiatrist does not focus on the entire body and its systems. They specialize in the lower extremities and are able to diagnose and treat conditions that can occur in the foot, ankle and lower leg. An orthopedic surgeon, on the other hand, is a medical specialist who deals with the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions and diseases. This includes the diagnosis and treatment of issues affecting the bones, joints and muscles. As an expert witness, a podiatric medicine doctor may be called to testify in legal proceedings related to foot and ankle injuries.
