Podiatrists
Podiatrists diagnose and treat diseases and deformities of the human foot.
Podiatrists' job description entails mainly conducting foot and ankle surgeries, such as removing bone spurs, fracture repairs, and rectifying other foot and ankle deformities. They advise and instruct patients on foot and ankle care and general wellness techniques. Besides prescribing medications, they coordinate patient care with other physicians.
On a daily basis, foot doctors treat foot and ankle conditions of patients with chronic illnesses such as arthritis, obesity, heart disease, peripheral arterial disease and diabetes which can be serious diseases for the foot. As podiatrist doctors deal with lower legs, they are qualified to set fractures, write prescriptions, recommend physical therapy, do surgery as needed and assist other doctors in treating a health issue.
A podiatrist’s education doesn’t involve any traditional medical school. They normally take part in a program at a podiatric medical school. To practice as a podiatrist, one should be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. One needs to complete an approved degree (BSc) or master's programme (MSc) in podiatry. They can also earn certification in speciality areas like orthopaedics, surgery or medical care.
To get a decent podiatrist's salary, one must possess interpersonal skills. Interacting with patients is a critical part of the podiatrist's job, so effective communication is necessary. As they treat patients who are in pain, they must be empathetic towards them. One should have critical thinking and detail orientation skills to provide effective solutions.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- DPM Doctor of Podiatric Medicine
- M.Sc. Podiatry
- M.Sc. (Hons.) Podiatry
- MBBS Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
Tasks
- Diagnose diseases and deformities of the foot using medical histories, physical examinations, x-rays, and laboratory test results.
- Prescribe medications, corrective devices, physical therapy, or surgery.
- Surgically treat conditions such as corns, calluses, ingrown nails, tumors, shortened tendons, bunions, cysts, or abscesses.
- Advise patients about treatments and foot care techniques necessary for prevention of future problems.
- Refer patients to physicians when symptoms indicative of systemic disorders, such as arthritis or diabetes, are observed in feet and legs.
- Correct deformities by means of plaster casts and strapping.
- Make and fit prosthetic appliances.
- Perform administrative duties, such as hiring employees, ordering supplies, or keeping records.
- Educate the public about the benefits of foot care through techniques such as speaking engagements, advertising, and other forums.
- Treat deformities using mechanical methods, such as whirlpool or paraffin baths, and electrical methods, such as short wave and low voltage currents.
Progression Routes
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