Common Conditions Treated
by Podiatrists
Podiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that podiatrists help patients manage:
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting a podiatrist.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive medical history including diabetes status, circulation problems, past foot surgeries, and current symptoms
- Review of current medications and any allergies
- Detailed foot examination including skin, nails, circulation, sensation, and structural alignment
- Gait analysis to observe how you walk and identify biomechanical issues
- X-rays or other imaging if needed to evaluate bones and joints
- Discussion of your footwear, activity level, and lifestyle factors
- First podiatry visit typically lasts 30-60 minutes
Diagnosis & Testing
- Physical examination: Thorough assessment of foot structure, range of motion, strength, and areas of tenderness
- X-rays: Standard imaging to evaluate bone structure, fractures, arthritis, and deformities
- MRI or CT scan: Advanced imaging for soft tissue injuries, infections, or complex conditions
- Ultrasound: To evaluate soft tissue structures like tendons and plantar fascia
- Vascular assessment: Checking pulses and blood flow, especially important for diabetic patients
- Neurological testing: Evaluating sensation with monofilament testing and vibration assessment
- Gait analysis: Observing walking patterns to identify biomechanical abnormalities
- Wound assessment: For ulcers, evaluating depth, infection, and healing potential
Treatment Options
- Custom orthotics: Prescription inserts designed to correct biomechanical issues, provide arch support, and redistribute pressure
- Medications: Oral or topical anti-inflammatories, antibiotics for infections, antifungals for nail conditions
- Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for conditions like plantar fasciitis and ankle injuries
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections for inflammation, or regenerative therapies like PRP for chronic conditions
- Nail procedures: Removal of ingrown toenails, treatment of fungal infections, care of thickened nails
- Wound care: Debridement, offloading, specialized dressings, and infection management for diabetic ulcers
- Surgical interventions: Bunionectomy, hammertoe correction, heel spur removal, tendon repair, fracture fixation, ankle stabilization
- Footwear guidance: Recommendations for appropriate shoes, diabetic footwear, and modifications
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your podiatrist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Podiatrist
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a podiatrist.
Credentials to Verify
- Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from an accredited podiatric medical school
- Board certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS) and/or American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM)
- Completed 3-4 year surgical residency training in foot and ankle medicine and surgery
- Active, unrestricted state podiatric license
- Hospital privileges if surgical treatment may be needed
- Member of professional organizations like American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
Important Considerations
- Experience with your specific condition (bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, etc.)
- Surgical experience if you may need foot or ankle surgery
- Hospital or surgery center affiliations and their quality ratings
- Accepts your insurance plan and is in-network
- Office location and accessibility, especially important if you have mobility issues
- Availability for urgent issues like infections or injuries
- Communication style and willingness to explain treatment options thoroughly
- Use of modern diagnostic equipment and treatment technologies
- Experience with diabetic patients if you have diabetes
- Patient reviews and recommendations from other patients or referring physicians
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple podiatrists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing a podiatrist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$150-$300
Follow-up Visit
$75-$150
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most health insurance plans cover podiatry visits with specialist copay (typically $30-$75)
- Diagnostic tests and medically necessary treatments are usually covered with prior authorization
- Custom orthotics coverage varies significantly by plan - some cover fully, others partially, some not at all
- Foot surgery typically requires pre-authorization from insurance
- Diabetic patients often have enhanced coverage for foot care under Medicare and most insurance plans
- Routine foot care (nail trimming, callus removal) may not be covered unless you have a qualifying condition like diabetes
- Many plans require referral from primary care physician for specialist coverage
- Out-of-network podiatrists may result in higher out-of-pocket costs
- High-deductible plans require meeting deductible before coverage begins
Medicare Information
Medicare Part B covers medically necessary podiatry visits and procedures. For diabetic patients, Medicare covers therapeutic shoes and inserts annually, plus regular foot exams. Routine foot care (nail trimming, callus removal) is only covered if you have a systemic condition like diabetes or peripheral vascular disease. Medicare typically covers 80% of approved costs after the Part B deductible is met.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your podiatrist is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Podiatrist
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking a podiatrist:
What is causing my foot/ankle problem, and what are all my treatment options?
Can my condition be treated conservatively, or will I need surgery?
Would custom orthotics help my condition, and will my insurance cover them?
How long will treatment take, and what results can I realistically expect?
What can I do at home to help my condition heal faster?
Are there activities I should avoid while my condition heals?
What type of shoes should I wear for my condition?
If I need surgery, what is the recovery time and what limitations will I have?
How many of these procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
If I have diabetes, how often should I have my feet examined?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
Podiatrist vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs. Here's how podiatrists compare to similar specialists:
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about podiatrists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and the following authoritative organizations:
Last updated: December 2025
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a podiatrist and an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon?
A podiatrist (DPM) is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine who specializes exclusively in foot and ankle care, completing 4 years of podiatric medical school and 3-4 years of surgical residency. An orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon is a medical doctor (MD/DO) who completed medical school, orthopedic surgery residency, and additional fellowship in foot and ankle surgery. Both can perform foot and ankle surgery and treat similar conditions. Podiatrists focus solely on the foot and ankle throughout their training, while orthopedic surgeons have broader orthopedic training with foot/ankle subspecialization. For most foot and ankle conditions, either specialist can provide excellent care.
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
It depends on your insurance plan. Many insurance plans, including Medicare, allow direct access to podiatrists without a referral. HMO plans typically require a referral from your primary care physician. PPO plans usually allow you to see specialists without a referral, though you may pay lower copays with one. Check with your insurance company about your specific plan requirements. Even if not required, a referral can help ensure coordination of care.
How often should diabetic patients see a podiatrist?
The American Diabetes Association recommends that all diabetic patients have a comprehensive foot examination at least once a year. However, if you have risk factors such as neuropathy (nerve damage), poor circulation, foot deformities, history of ulcers, or previous amputation, you should see a podiatrist more frequently - typically every 2-3 months or as recommended by your healthcare team. Regular podiatric care is essential for preventing diabetic foot complications, which are a leading cause of lower limb amputation.
Are custom orthotics worth the cost compared to store-bought insoles?
Custom orthotics are specifically designed for your feet based on detailed measurements and gait analysis. They address your specific biomechanical issues and are made from durable materials that typically last 2-5 years. Over-the-counter insoles provide general cushioning and support but cannot correct specific alignment problems. Custom orthotics are particularly beneficial for conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, bunions, and diabetic foot care where precise support and pressure distribution matter. For mild discomfort, store-bought insoles may be sufficient, but for persistent problems or specific conditions, custom orthotics typically provide better long-term results and value.
Can bunions be corrected without surgery?
Non-surgical treatment cannot reverse a bunion deformity but can effectively manage symptoms and slow progression. Conservative measures include wearing wider shoes with a roomy toe box, using bunion pads and toe spacers, custom orthotics to improve foot mechanics, anti-inflammatory medications, and icing. These approaches work well for mild bunions or patients who cannot undergo surgery. However, if a bunion causes significant pain, limits activity, or continues to worsen despite conservative treatment, surgical correction (bunionectomy) may be recommended for lasting improvement.
How long is recovery from bunion surgery?
Recovery time varies based on the surgical procedure performed and individual healing. Most patients can walk in a surgical shoe or boot immediately after surgery, though weight-bearing may be limited for 2-6 weeks depending on the procedure. Swelling typically decreases significantly by 6-8 weeks but can persist for several months. Return to regular shoes usually takes 6-12 weeks. Full recovery, including return to all activities and sports, typically takes 3-6 months. Your podiatrist will provide specific guidelines based on your procedure and progress.
What causes plantar fasciitis, and how can I prevent it?
Plantar fasciitis develops when the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot) becomes inflamed due to excessive stress. Risk factors include being overweight, having flat feet or high arches, tight calf muscles, activities involving repetitive impact (running, jumping), spending long hours on your feet, and wearing shoes with poor arch support. Prevention strategies include maintaining a healthy weight, wearing supportive footwear, stretching your calves and feet regularly, gradually increasing activity levels, and replacing worn athletic shoes. Custom orthotics can also help prevent recurrence.
When should I see a podiatrist for an ingrown toenail versus treating it at home?
See a podiatrist if your ingrown toenail shows signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, pus, or warmth), if you've tried home treatment without improvement for more than a week, if it keeps recurring, or if you have diabetes or circulation problems. Diabetic patients should never attempt to treat ingrown toenails at home due to the risk of infection and poor healing. For mild cases without infection, home care includes soaking in warm water, keeping the area clean, and wearing loose-fitting shoes. However, do not attempt to cut out the ingrown portion yourself, as this can worsen the problem or cause infection.
Can podiatrists treat ankle problems, or should I see an orthopedist?
Podiatrists are trained to treat the foot and ankle, including ankle sprains, fractures, tendon injuries, arthritis, and instability. Most ankle conditions can be effectively treated by either a podiatrist or an orthopedic foot and ankle specialist. Podiatrists who are board certified in Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery have advanced training specifically in ankle procedures. For complex ankle conditions, multiple trauma, or when ankle problems are part of a larger orthopedic issue involving the leg or knee, an orthopedic surgeon may be more appropriate. Your podiatrist can help determine if you need a referral to another specialist.
What should I look for in diabetic shoes, and does insurance cover them?
Diabetic shoes should have extra depth to accommodate custom inserts, seamless interiors to prevent rubbing, firm heel counters for stability, and adjustable closures for a secure fit. They should be professionally fitted to ensure proper size and comfort. Medicare covers one pair of diabetic shoes and three pairs of inserts per year for qualifying diabetic patients, and many private insurance plans offer similar coverage. To qualify for Medicare coverage, you need a prescription from your treating physician (often your podiatrist) certifying that you have diabetes and meet specific criteria such as neuropathy, poor circulation, or history of foot ulcers.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.
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