What does a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine do?

In an average day a DPM may:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as tumors, ulcers, fractures, skin or nail diseases, and congenital or acquired deformity such as weak feet and foot imbalance.

• Use innovative methods to treat conditions such as corns, calluses, bunions, heel spurs, ingrown toenails, arch problems, shortened tendons, cysts, bone disorders, and abscesses.

• Design corrective orthotics, plaster casts, and strappings to correct deformities.

• Design flexible casting for immobilization of foot and ankle fractures, sprains, or other injuries.

• Correct walking patterns and balance, and promote the overall ability to move about more efficiently and comfortably.

• Provide individual consultations to patients concerning continued treatment of disorders and preventive foot care.

• Refer patients to other physicians when symptoms observed in the feet indicate disorders, such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, or kidney disease.