Foot & Leg Healthcare Specialists

Physicians, physical therapists, chiropractors and other health care providers are educated in anatomy, physiology and pathology of all parts of the human body. Some health care professionals obtain additional education or training to specialize in the treatment of a particular area of the body. There are several types of health care practitioners that specialize in the treatment of the lower extremity.

Podiatrists

• Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) are the most commonly known lower extremity specialists. Podiatrists diagnose and treat injuries and conditions of the foot, ankle and lower leg exclusively. These conditions include infections, foot deformities, fractures, sprains and other athletic and traumatic injuries. Most podiatrists perform foot and ankle surgery and are able to prescribe medications. In addition, they fabricate custom orthotic shoe inserts and custom shoes.

Orthopedic Surgeon

• Orthopedic surgeons specialize in the musculoskeletal system, which includes the foot and leg. General orthopedic surgeons treat multiple body parts however some surgeons choose to focus on a particular body part or patient type. Sports medicine orthopedists focus on traumatic injuries and sports-specific training. Hand surgery is another common subspecialty due to its intricate anatomy. Although leg surgery is not a specifically defined subspecialty in this category, you can find a surgeon who specializes in the lower extremity within a general orthopedic practice.

Physical Therapists

• Within the field of physical therapy, there are many different areas of specialization. An Orthopedic Certified Specialist (OCS) has obtained advanced licensing in the rehabilitation of injuries to the musculoskeletal system. The OCS has studied the lower extremity extensively and is considered to be an expert in this area of physical therapy. Some therapists in general practice may also have advanced skills in treatment of the lower extremity based on the patient population seen in the clinic.

Vascular Surgeon

• Vascular surgeons specialize in the treatment of disease that affects blood flow in the body. Although vascular surgeons treat all body parts, they frequently treat patients with circulatory problems in the legs. These physicians perform diagnostic testing to determine whether blood flow in the legs is compromised. Treatment for vascular disease includes medications, lifestyle changes and surgery to remove blockages.