Many people use the term “foot doctor” when really what they are referring to is a podiatrist. Although the term foot doctor is a common term for a Chicago podiatrist, this individual is a doctor that specializes in diagnosing, treating and preventing ailments which affect the feet, ankles and often the lower legs.
A podiatrist is a specialist in a particular area of medicine; many podiatrists are certified in primary medical care and based on their education, expertise and training could practice other medical disciplines should they care to. There is far more than just the study of feet when preparing for entry into this medical specialty. As well as obtaining a degree as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine they must all have extensive exposure to radiology, anesthesiology and orthopedics. Before they can become board certified they are expected to complete a rigorous internship and residency program.
Before a Chicago podiatrist can establish a clinic they must be licensed. There are minor variations in the licensing requirements based on the state but in general the applicant must hold a degree in podiatric medicine, pass examinations as well as evaluations. Depending on the jurisdiction in which the license was issued it may or may not be valid elsewhere.
A Chicago podiatrist deals with a wide variety of problems brought to them by patients. Issues like corns, bunions, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, ingrown nails etc are all very painful. As painful as these conditions are they all can be treated by the podiatrist; there are other issues however that takes more care. A podiatrist can also treat other issues such as arch problems, problems with lower limb circulation, hammertoe and other problems which are directly related to diabetes.
For those people that suffer from problems of the feet and ankles such as those mentioned or they periodically experience cramping, pain or numbness, they should not delay in making an appointment with a podiatrist for a complete examination. The podiatrist will need to become involved in your overall health and condition, you can expect to be asked if you are a diabetic, are you a smoker, do you take drugs, etc. If you are taking prescription drugs the podiatrist will want to know what they are. During the initial evaluation the podiatrist with be looking for any irregularities with your feet or ankles that could very well be the cause of your problems and discomfort. Once the Chicago podiatrist has finished with the initial evaluation he or she can develop a course of treatment that will result in your feet returning to a normal, healthy state.
If you suffer from painful problems with your feet, ankles or lower legs it is advisable to visit a Chicago podiatrist. Contact Kondiles Chicagoland Footcare for an appointment.
