What is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a foot specialist who can diagnose and treat any local affection of the foot that is not a systemic disease. A podiatrist is able to perform his duties in the areas of dermatology, biomechanics, radiology, pharmacology and surgery.
A podiatrist will also prescribe orthotics to correct or compensate for any foot imbalances. He will operate on problem situations involving the bones and soft tissue, such as bunions, hammer toes, neuroma, Quintus Varus, corns, etc. Finally, the podiatrist carries out minor operations to treat ingrown toenails, especially by removing the portion of the nail that has grown into the skin and cauterizing the nail bed to prevent regrowth.
When Should I Consult a Podiatrist?
Consult a professional as soon as you have any concerns. If you feel that your child's feet are not normal, if he or she is walking with the toes pointed in or keeps tripping over, you should see a podiatrist for children. It is better to correct this at a young age and prevent the problem from getting worse.
If you have diabetes, visit a podiatrist so that your needs can be assessed. Diabetics tend to lose sensitivity in their toes over time. Having your feet examined is a good way to keep them healthy.
Do I need a doctor's referral to see a podiatrist?
No, you can go directly to a podiatrist.
Is the podiatrist covered by the RAMQ?
No, but podiatry is a private practice reimbursed by most private insurance.
Do podiatrists make orthotics?
Yes, the podiatrist is trained to diagnose a problem and treat it with a comprehensive and detailed prescription for podiatric orthotics.
Can a podiatrist operate?
Yes, a podiatrist is trained to do minor operations on the feet.
Is a podiatrist a medical doctor?
No, a podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine. In terms of training and title, we can say it is on the same level as a dentist, veterinarian or chiropractor.
What are the training requirements of a podiatrist?
A podiatrist has an Undergraduate Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine from UQTR, or has a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) from a university in the United States.
What is the difference between podiatrists and orthotists?
The orthotist is trained to make the orthotic but cannot diagnose a problem. A podiatrist, however, can make a diagnosis and treatment plan. Podiatrists work with the orthotist, giving the specifications for the manufacture and fabrication of custom orthotics.
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