People who have foot or ankle pain are typically treated by a podiatrist. These are doctors that specialize in ailments that occur in these parts of the body, and many podiatrists can perform surgery. There are several years of mandatory education required to become a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM. This begins with obtaining a bachelor's degree, followed by enrolling in podiatry school. Oftentimes podiatrists obtain a Bachelor of Science degree. Medical school will focus on the feet and ankles, and it is helpful to pursue volunteer work and internships. This is a four-year program, and education continues with a residency program, totaling seven years after obtaining a BS. A residency involves working in a hospital or clinic setting, which must be completed before working independently. If you are interested in pursuing podiatry as a career, please plan to spend some time conferring with this type of doctor who can answer any questions you may have.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 Hanover, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.