FAQs for Going to the Podiatrist

Foot and ankle pain can disrupt daily life, and many people aren’t sure where to turn for help. Visiting a podiatrist can provide clarity, answers, and relief, but it’s natural to have questions before scheduling an appointment. This blog breaks down what you need to know about podiatry care so you can feel confident taking the next step toward healthier feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Are Podiatrists Doctors?

Yes. Podiatrists earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree: medical training focused on the foot, ankle, and related structures. They are licensed medical professionals who diagnose and treat conditions of the lower extremity.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

Podiatrists treat a wide range of foot and ankle issues, such as plantar fasciitis, heel pain, flat feet, bunions, sports-related injuries, and diabetic foot complications. They use both conservative and surgical approaches, and frequently recommend orthotic devices, including medical-grade insoles like our ProTech line, to support alignment and reduce strain.

When and Why to See a Podiatrist

• If you have persistent foot, heel, or arch pain that doesn’t improve after a few weeks of rest and supportive shoes
• If you notice changes in foot shape, gait, or toe alignment
• For recurring foot injuries, especially in athletes or active patients
• For preventive care in conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or chronic foot deformities

Early care often prevents more serious problems down the line.

Do You Need a Referral to See a Podiatrist?

In most cases, no referral is needed to see a podiatrist. However, some insurance plans or health systems may require you to see a primary care physician first. Always check your insurance policy to confirm whether a referral is required before your visit.

What Conditions Do Podiatrists Commonly Treat?

Podiatrists manage a wide range of foot and ankle concerns, from common aches to more complex medical issues. Some of the most frequent conditions they address include:

• Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
• Flat feet, high arches, and alignment problems
• Bunions, hammertoes, and other structural issues
• Sports injuries, sprains, and stress fractures
• Diabetic foot care and wound management

In addition to these musculoskeletal and biomechanical conditions, podiatrists also treat toenail and skin issues, such as fungal infections, ingrown toenails, corns, and calluses. This makes them a valuable resource not just for pain and injury, but for the overall health and function of your feet.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Medical History & Physical Exam

Your podiatrist will begin by asking about your symptoms, medical history, footwear habits, and activity level. They will examine your gait, alignment, muscle strength, and sensitive areas.

Diagnostic Imaging

If needed, imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI may be ordered to rule out fractures, soft tissue tears, or structural abnormalities.

Treatment Planning

Based on findings, your podiatrist may start with conservative interventions such as activity modification, stretching, footwear changes, or orthotic support. If symptoms don’t improve, more advanced options like injections or surgery may be considered.

How Podiatrists Use Orthotics

Orthotics are one of the most common tools recommended by podiatrists. Evidence suggests that properly designed orthoses can reduce strain on structures like the plantar fascia, support arch alignment, and improve foot mechanics.

Prefabricated medical insoles such as those in our ProTech line provide a practical option for many patients to get clinical-level support without custom fabrication, and a referral is needed from your podiatrist to purchase these insoles. In more advanced cases, podiatrists may recommend custom orthotics tailored to your foot structure. If you are looking to try out orthotic insoles without a podiatrist referral, our Pinnacle insoles are the number one choice by podiatrists and provide high-quality support and comfort.

Podiatrist FAQs

Q: Can a podiatrist perform surgery?
A: Yes. Podiatrists are trained to perform both minor and major foot and ankle surgeries, including procedures for bunions, hammertoes, and tendon repairs.

Q: Do podiatrists treat children as well as adults?
A: Absolutely. Pediatric podiatry addresses issues like flat feet, toe walking, and sports injuries in children, ensuring proper development and mobility.

Q: What’s the difference between a podiatrist and an orthopedist?
A: Podiatrists specialize exclusively in the foot and ankle, while orthopedists treat the entire musculoskeletal system. Depending on the condition, you may be referred to either.

Q: Can a podiatrist prescribe medications?
A: Yes. Podiatrists can prescribe medications, order diagnostic imaging, and provide therapies just like other medical specialists.

Q: How often should I see a podiatrist if I have chronic foot problems?
A: The frequency depends on your condition. Some patients may only need annual check-ins, while others with diabetes or recurring issues may benefit from more regular visits.

References:

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/410537