Most podiatrists have the Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree that requires a four-year program after university and a two to three-year residency. They are not medical doctors (MDs), have not gone to medical school, and are not surgeons. They are highly trained in the areas of the foot and ankle, can diagnose issues, treat them, and prescribe medications. If surgery is needed for a patient, that patient is referred to an orthopedic surgeon. That means going to another office, filling out more forms, and meeting, yet another, medical professional.
There is nothing wrong with that process, but it can be an inconvenience, especially if the patient is still in pain. Comprehensive Podiatric Ankle Care in Kenosha will eliminate the referral process because their podiatrists are also surgeons. They are not just DPMs; they also have FACFAS certifications. The Fellowship of American College of Foot and Ankle (FACFAS) indicates the podiatrist can perform surgeries to correct deformities, disorders, and many other conditions. They also provide diagnoses for all types of problems with the feet and ankle. Hammertoes, heel or arch pain, fractures, adult flat foot, neuroma, ingrown toenails, and nail fungus are some examples of areas of expertise.
Treatments, such as physical therapy, injections, custom-made orthotics, ultrasound treatments, and prescription medications, are also available. Foot inspections and examinations are offered, and should be completed at least annually for diabetics, and those with a weakened immune system. The feet and ankles absorb the full weight, pressure, and shock of the entire body when walking, standing, running, and doing most type of exercises and activities. It is important to take excellent care them.
Getting all Podiatric Ankle Care in Kenosha WI provides continuity of care from the first sign of pain or swelling, through testing and diagnosis, and to a wide variety of treatment options, including surgery. The patient is comfortable with the doctor, the office, and the support staff; the paperwork and forms only have to be submitted once, and a complete treatment plan can be carried out long-term. If an issue is chronic, or the patient is not sure what the cause of the problem is, the smart choice is to seek out a podiatrist who is also a surgeon, like those at Great Lakes Foot & Ankle Centers, for example.
