Podiatry is a medical and surgical specialty dedicated to the foot and ankle. Life is motion, and podiatric illnesses can have a drastic impact on the quality of one’s life. Certain systemic diseases such as diabetes, peripheral vascular disease and peripheral neuropathy increase the risk of developing lower extremity issues. Such individuals should see a podiatrist routinely for preventative care. Signs of certain vascular and neurological illnesses may first subtlety appear in the lower extremities and are often first discovered during a podiatric exam. Early detection of such ailments allows a podiatrist to refer to the appropriate specialty for further work up and better coordinated care.

However, even otherwise perfectly healthy people can develop foot/ankle problems throughout their life. Whether it be due to an injury, over activity, infection, hereditary or idiopathic, a podiatrist can provide expert level specialty care.

Pediatric individuals with foot or ankle deformities should also be seen by a podiatric specialist as early intervention may help prevent complications in the future.

Podiatric care is a covered service by most health insurance plans.