Both podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons concentrate on treating ailments of the musculoskeletal system, particularly those affecting the feet and ankles. But there are some significant distinctions between these two specialties.
WHO IS A PODIATRIST?
A doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM), usually known as a podiatrist, is a health care provider who focuses on the identification, management, and prevention of diseases and illnesses that affect the feet, ankles, and lower limbs.
Check out our in-depth article on Podiatrists here.
WHO IS AN ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON?
A physician with specialization in the diagnosis, therapy, and surgical management of ailments and wounds affecting the musculoskeletal system is known as an orthopedic surgeon. The bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other structures that support and enable movement are a part of the musculoskeletal system.
Some differences between orthopedic surgeons and podiatrists include:
- Practice Areas: Podiatrists, commonly referred to as Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), are qualified to offer thorough treatment for a variety of ailments affecting the feet, such as nail problems, infections, and deformities of the feet, while certain orthopedic doctors may be skilled in treating issues with the feet and ankles, and also handle problems with the spine, hips, knees, shoulders, and hands.
- Both podiatrists and orthopedic specialists go through considerable study and training, although their trajectories are different. After finishing a four-year podiatric medical school curriculum, podiatrists are awarded a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree. They then complete a residency program that specializes in podiatric surgery and medicine. On the other hand, orthopedic specialists are medical professionals (MDs or DOs) who finish a five-year orthopedic residency program after completing a four-year medical school program. Additionally, certain orthopedic doctors could decide to enroll in fellowship programs in order to improve their sub-specialization.
- Expertise in Surgery: Podiatrists are educated to carry out foot- and ankle-specific surgical operations such as bunionectomies, hammertoe adjustments, Achilles tendon repairs, and others. On the other hand, orthopedic specialists are capable of performing a greater range of orthopedic procedures, such as joint replacement, spine surgery, fracture repair, ligament restoration, and more. Although they frequently concentrate on other body parts as well, they may also do procedures on the feet and ankles.
- Approach to Treatment: Orthopedic experts and podiatrists may use different treatment modalities for various ailments. First, conservative treatments like orthotics, physical therapy, medicine, and other non-surgical approaches are frequently used by podiatrists. When conservative approaches fail to solve the issue, they could advise surgery. Orthopedic specialists might first try conservative therapy as well, depending on the specific disease, although they might have a higher bar for suggesting surgery. Their broader education enables them to, if necessary, think about treatment alternatives other than those for the foot and ankle.
It’s vital to remember that depending on the nation and healthcare system, orthopedic specialists’ specific tasks and qualifications may change. It is best to speak with a medical practitioner who can offer you individualized advice and suitable care if you have a specific worry or condition.
