Podiatrists vs orthopedist: How to Choose?

Day by day, we have more and more specialized fields in the medicine world. Because of this very reason, it can be hard for an ordinary individual to decide which specialist to channel. Orthopedist and podiatrist are such specializations people often get confused with. With that said, which specialist you should choose if you have a severely broken foot bone (which probably requires a surgery)? Is it an orthopedic surgeon or a podiatrist?

As a matter of fact, both orthopedists and podiatrists are specialists that have expert knowledge related to the musculoskeletal system. They know very well about the bones and healing properties associated with the bones. Despite all those similarities, there are some differences as well. If you know these differences, you might be able to choose between orthopedist and Podiatrist Lancaster, CA.

What are the differences between an orthopedist and a Podiatrist?

In general, an orthopedist is responsible for taking care of all the issues related to bones and joints in the body. In addition to that, they have a thorough understanding of the soft tissues surrounding the bones and their functionalities. Nevertheless, they are more inclined towards taking care of issues related to larger joints such as shoulders, hips, knees, etc. But don’t forget that some of the orthopedic surgeons specialize in taking care of issues related to foot and ankles.

When it comes to a podiatrist, they also take care of bones, joints and musculoskeletal system – but they specialize in addressing the issues related to foot and ankle. That means a podiatrist is capable of treating any of the problems that occur in your ankle and foot region. Empowered with knowledge on dermatology and general biomechanics associated with feet, they can also take care of any foot issues linked to diabetes and gout.

Well, there is an apparent overlap between podiatrist and orthopedist. One specialist is capable of doing what the other specialist isn’t capable of. Nevertheless, both of the specialists can address issues related to bunions or fractured heel bone. Podiatrists, however, treat all the problems associated with a defined region (the foot and ankle area). During their training, they acquire special knowledge related to the issues in this area. As a result, podiatrists become true specialists in treating conditions related to the foot and ankle. For instance, a podiatrist Lancaster, CA are specialists you should look for treating any condition on your ankles or foot.

Chose your specialist? What should you do now?

No matter whether you go for a podiatrist or an orthopedist, you should make sure that you go for a real specialist. Always choose your doctor who are qualified, well-experienced and professional enough. Before you visit your podiatrist or orthopedist, you should do some research and learn what other patients say about them.