Is there a difference between a podiatrist and a foot and ankle specialist?

Both foot and ankle specialists and podiatrists treat conditions affecting the feet, but the specialists treat more complex problems.

Healthy feet and ankles are necessary for a life full of movement. They support the weight of the body through an intricate system of bones, tendons, ligaments, joints, and cartilage.

When one of the supporting structures in the foot or ankle is injured or diseased, it can affect your ability to move and do even the simplest of life’s tasks in life. You need a provider with expert knowledge.

A foot and ankle specialist completes four years of medical school and five or more years in an orthopedic surgical residency. Besides the extended and specialized schooling, a foot and ankle specialist has completed a year-long fellowship to gain specialized knowledge of the skeletal, muscular structure, and movement of the entire lower leg. The expanded education gives foot and ankle specialists the knowledge, understanding, and experience they need to treat complex medical issues.

A podiatrist also has specialized knowledge of the foot and ankle. Podiatrists complete four years of higher education at a school of podiatry to receive their medical certification. They follow their podiatry education with two to three years of residency.

Both types of providers use surgical and non-surgical procedures to treat:

• Ingrown toenails
• Flat feet
• Calluses
• Heel spurs
• Diabetic foot conditions
• Other types of foot and ankle injuries

Foot and ankle specialists receive additional advanced training to treat traumatic injuries of the lower leg, ankle, and foot.

The podiatrists and the foot and ankle specialist at Bone & Joint know your foot and ankle health are critical to your health and well-being.

If you have problems walking because of foot or ankle pain, call Bone & Joint’s podiatrists, Dr. Thomas Staysniak and Dr. Paul Strobel. You can also make an appointment with foot and ankle specialist Dr. Adam Halverson.

This talented team of providers knows how to care for you and get you back on your feet again.