Podiatrist diagnoses and treats diseases and deformities of the human foot. Podiatrist requires knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Some of the duties required to be done by a Podiatrist:
- Treat bone, muscle, and joint disorders affecting the feet
- Treat conditions such as corns, calluses, ingrown nails, tumors, shortened tendons, bunions, cysts, and abscesses by surgical methods
- Treat deformities using mechanical methods, such as whirlpool or paraffin baths, and electrical methods, such as short wave and low voltage currents
- Educate the public about the benefits of foot care through techniques such as speaking engagements, advertising, and other forums
- Advise patients about treatments and foot care techniques necessary for prevention of future problems
- Correct deformities by means of plaster casts and strapping
- Diagnose diseases and deformities of the foot using medical histories, physical examinations, x-rays, and laboratory test results
- Make and fit prosthetic appliances
- Prescribe medications, corrective devices, physical therapy, or surgery
