A podiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the care and health of your ankles and feet. An experienced podiatrist is one who can treat and diagnosis all sorts of foot conditions. These can be related to the skin, circulatory system, musculoskeletal system, and neurological system. Many major health problems can be diagnosed by a foot doctor, who can then treat the problem or refer you to a medical specialist.
Training and Education
When looking for a reputable foot care center in Morristown, you first want to ensure that your doctor has the appropriate education and training. This will consist of a four-year undergraduate degree, including classes in chemistry, biology, and pre-medical courses. They also must attend four years of podiatric medical school which will include clinical rotations. A podiatrist who does surgery will also have completed anywhere from one to three years of surgical residency training to prepare them for the position.
Board Certification
Another thing that is required for a podiatrist is board certification. This ensures that the doctor is following strict guidelines related to quality and ethics. As a requirement to be board certified, the doctor will be required to complete four years of doctoral training, residency training, and complete oral and written exams. They will also submit case lists showing surgical experience.
Additional Education
When you talk to the podiatrist at a foot care center in Morristown, it’s important to ask them about their education and certifications. You may also want to ask questions about their experience level and the experience of the staff at their center. Many podiatrists also seek out continuing education to ensure they know the latest methods and types of technology which can be used in their practice. Any respectable podiatrist will be happy to provide you with this information.
Specific Health Issues
For those who have diabetes or other health issues that relate to the feet, make sure to ask the podiatrist about their ability to accommodate those issues. As an example, a diabetic individual who experiences neuropathy of the feet may need more frequent monitoring and appointments than another patient. Determine if the podiatrist is skilled with the issue and capable of providing the level of care that you need.
Excellent Foot Care Nearby
At Westfield Family Podiatry & Surgery can help with your foot care whether you have an injury, medical issue, or pain in your foot. To learn more about our staff, you can visit our website at www.WestfieldFamilyPodiatry.com.
