Podiatry and Orthopedics are similar in that providers can specialize in the same general area of the body and both Podiatrists and Orthopedists are medical professionals that have obtained similar credentials in the medical field. In fact, Podiatrists and Orthopedists often work side-by-side in their professions. There are, however, some major differences. Let’s take a closer look:

What is a Podiatrist?

Podiatrists are doctors and surgeons that focus on the foot and ankle. A Podiatrist will have been to school to study the foot and ankle specifically. Considering this, they are differentiated physicians. This means that they went into their studies with the foot and ankle specifically in mind.

The formal education required to become a Podiatrist includes four years of undergraduate school, four years at an accredited podiatric medical school, and three or four years of surgical residency training focusing only on the foot and ankle. Podiatrists study medicine as it relates to the foot and ankle during their entire course of study. Often, Podiatrists may further sub-specialize within a specific niche of Podiatry by completing an additional year of fellowship training.

Unique to Podiatry is extensive training in the biomechanics of the feet, and how it affects the whole body. This allows for the Podiatrist to be well versed in foot balance and gait abnormalities, and to be equipped with a wide array of conservative care measures, such as orthotics and braces, that can help patients feel better without a trip to the operating room. With that being said, there is no difference between the surgical repertoire between the Podiatrist and the Orthopedist, and the latest advances in surgical treatment are employed by both specialties evenly.

Podiatrists work alongside Orthopedists, and have additional experience with all things ‘foot and ankle’.

What is an Orthopedist?

An Orthopedist is a surgeon who treats the entire musculoskeletal system. Although Orthopedists can focus or specialize in various parts of the body, they are trained to operate on the entire musculoskeletal system.

The formal education required to become an Orthopedist includes four years of undergraduate school, four years at an accredited medical school, followed by five years of residency training focusing on generalized orthopedic surgery of the entire body. Within these five years, an average of 2-3 months is typically spent on training specific to the foot and ankle. Thereafter, orthopedists opting to pursue a specialty in foot and ankle complete an additional fellowship that lasts one year and focuses on the treatment of disorders of the foot and ankle.

Which should you see for your foot or ankle problem?

This is a common question, and the answer is simple. You should see the physician that you are most comfortable with. Both Foot and Ankle Orthopedists and Podiatrists are trained to employ the same evidence-based treatment principles, surgical techniques, and care management. As a patient, you will need to have trust in your doctor. In this instance, it will not be based on the letters behind their name, but on their approach to your care and connection they establish with you as a patient.

If you are experiencing foot and ankle problems, it is best that you address them as quickly as possible to prevent any long-term damage. A search for “Orthopedist near me” or “Podiatrist near me” will start you in the right direction.

‍

Is an orthopedic doctor a DO or an MD?

An orthopedic doctor can either be a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) or a Medical Doctor (MD). Both types of physicians have full licenses to practice medicine and can specialize in orthopedics.

• MDs: These doctors follow the traditional medical model, focusing primarily on diagnosing and treating medical conditions using medications and surgery. They attend allopathic medical schools.
  
  
• DOs: These physicians receive additional training in the musculoskeletal system and practice a more holistic approach, emphasizing preventive care and the body's natural ability to heal. They attend osteopathic medical schools.
  
  

Regardless of whether they are a DO or an MD, orthopedic doctors undergo extensive training, including medical school, residency, and often fellowship programs, to specialize in orthopedics. This rigorous education ensures that both MDs and DOs are highly qualified to provide orthopedic care.

In summary, orthopedic doctors can be either DOs or MDs, and both are equally equipped to handle your orthopedic needs with expertise and specialized training.

What are some tips for preparing for an orthopedic appointment?

How to Prepare for an Orthopedic Appointment

Get a referral.

Start by visiting your primary care physician. If you're experiencing symptoms like increased pain, swelling, tingling, or difficulty with mobility, your doctor might refer you to an orthopedic specialist. Conditions affecting joints, bones, muscles, or tendons often warrant a specialist's evaluation.

Track your symptoms.

Before your appointment, make a detailed note of your symptoms. This includes keeping track of:

• Timing: When do your symptoms appear? Is it during the day, evening, or while you sleep?
• Activities: What activities trigger your symptoms? Does sitting, standing, exercising, or bearing weight make it worse?
• Pain: Describe the type of pain you're experiencing. Is it burning, shooting, dull, or aching? Use a pain scale (1 to 10) to gauge the intensity.

‍

Review past treatments.

It’s crucial to inform your orthopedist about any previous treatments you’ve tried and their effectiveness. This helps in forming a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

‍

Bring relevant medical records.

If you have any previous imaging reports or test results (like X-rays or MRIs), bring them along. Any image that shows the progression of an issue can be particularly useful. If necessary, contact your previous healthcare providers to obtain these records.

‍

Wear appropriate clothing.

Orthopedic exams often require a physical assessment of the affected area. Opt for layers or loose clothing that you can easily remove or adjust. For instance, opt for loose trousers during a knee examination or a short-sleeved shirt when dealing with a shoulder problem.

‍

Arrive Early

If it’s your first appointment with the orthopedist, arrive early to complete any necessary paperwork. This usually includes insurance forms and a detailed medical history, which are crucial for the doctor to determine the best course of action.

‍

What information should you bring to an orthopedic appointment?

Preparing for an orthopedic appointment involves gathering and noting specific information to help your healthcare provider assess your condition effectively.

Document your symptoms.

Keeping track of your symptoms before the appointment is essential. Make sure to closely monitor the following details:

• Timing: Record when the symptoms occur (e.g., during the day, in the evening, or while sleeping).
• Activities: Identify the activities that worsen your symptoms (e.g., sitting, standing, exercising, or bearing weight).
• Pain Characteristics: Use a scale of one to ten to describe the intensity and type of pain, as well as terms like burning, shooting, dull, or aching.

‍

Treatment History

Inform your orthopedist of any treatments you have previously tried, as well as their effectiveness. This information will guide your healthcare provider in determining the most suitable treatment plan.

‍

Medical Reports and Imaging

If you have recent reports or imaging results, such as X-rays or MRIs, bring them to your appointment. In cases of a recent diagnosis or injury, these documents may already be on file with your orthopedist. If you have older imaging that shows the progression of your condition, please contact your previous healthcare provider to obtain these records.

‍

Clothing

Wear clothing that is simple to remove or adjust, as the orthopedist will need to examine the affected area. Loose-fitting pants, for instance, facilitate quick access to the knee or hip joints.

‍

First-Time Appointments

For your initial visit, arrive early to complete any necessary paperwork, which often includes detailed information about your surgical and medical history. This documentation is critical for insurance purposes and gives your healthcare provider a comprehensive understanding of what issues to prioritize.

By bringing this information to your orthopedic appointment, you contribute to a more efficient and productive evaluation of your condition.

‍

What symptoms should you document before seeing an orthopedist?

Before visiting an orthopedist, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive record of your symptoms. Here's a structured guide to assist you in documenting the necessary information:

Symptom Details

• Pain Characteristics: note your pain's type and intensity. Is it burning, shooting, dull, or aching? Use a scale of one to ten to gauge the severity.
• Swelling and Stiffness: Record any signs of swelling or stiffness, as well as how these symptoms affect your range of motion.
• Impact on Daily Life: Are there specific activities you can no longer perform? Please mention if your symptoms make it difficult for you to sleep, stand, sit, or exercise.

Timing and triggering

• Symptom Timing: When do you notice your symptoms the most? For example, do they worsen in the evening, during sleep, or throughout the day?
• Aggravating Activities: Identify behaviors that exacerbate your symptoms, such as bearing weight, standing, or specific exercises.

Past Treatments

• Treatment history: Tell your orthopedist about previous treatments you've tried. Specify what has worked and what hasn’t, including medications, physical therapy, or other interventions.

‍

By detailing your symptoms in this manner, you'll provide your orthopedist with a clearer picture, helping them diagnose and treat your condition more effectively.

‍

What should you do before an orthopedic appointment?

Preparing for Your Orthopedic Appointment: Key Steps to Take

Be sure to take these steps before your orthopedic appointment to maximize your visit.

‍

Track your symptoms.

‍

Keep a log detailing:

• Timing: When do your symptoms occur? (morning, evening, during sleep)
• Triggers: What activities make your symptoms worse? (sitting, standing, physical exercise, weight-bearing activities)
• Pain Description: Note the intensity and type of pain (burning, shooting, dull, or aching) and rate it on a scale of 1 to 10.

‍

Provide a treatment history.

Inform your orthopedist about previous treatments you've tried and their effectiveness. This history will assist your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action for your current condition.

‍

Bring medical reports and imaging.

If available, bring any relevant medical reports or imaging, such as X-rays or MRIs. These can be critical in diagnosing and tracking the progression of your condition. If you've recently undergone imaging, make sure your orthopedist receives these records from your previous healthcare provider.

‍

Dress Appropriately

Make sure you are wearing loose clothing that is simple to remove. This will make it simpler for the orthopedist to examine the affected area. For the examination of the knee or hip joint, loose pants are ideal.

‍

Arrive Early

If this is your first appointment, arrive a bit earlier to fill out the necessary paperwork. This paperwork is crucial for insurance purposes and helps the healthcare provider understand your medical and surgical history, which can aid in addressing your issues more effectively.

By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared and help your orthopedist provide the best possible care.

‍

What is the difference between MD and DO in orthopedics?

Understanding the Difference Between MD and DO in Orthopedics

Orthopedic physicians can be either medical doctors (MDs) or doctors of osteopathy (DOs). While both are fully licensed and capable of specializing in orthopedics, they come from slightly different educational backgrounds and training philosophies.

‍

Educational Pathways

1. Medical Doctor (MD):
   
   • Training: MDs attend traditional medical schools. Their training focuses on diagnosing and treating medical conditions using conventional methods.
   • Approach: MDs generally emphasize the use of medications and surgeries to address health issues.
2. Doctor of Osteopathy (DO):
   
   • Training: DOs attend osteopathic medical schools, where they receive additional training in the musculoskeletal system.
   • Approach: DOs adopt a more holistic approach, often incorporating osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to improve the body's natural healing process.

‍

Philosophy and Practice

• Holistic vs. conventional:
  
  • MDs typically focus on specific symptoms and diseases, using a more conventional approach.
  • DOs take a whole-person view, considering lifestyle and environmental factors and employing hands-on techniques.
• Specialization:
  
  • Both MDs and DOs can choose to further specialize in orthopedics by completing residency programs and obtaining board certification.

‍

Similarities

Despite the differences in training and philosophy, MDs and DOs work alongside each other in hospitals and clinics. Both are equally qualified to diagnose, treat, and perform surgery on musculoskeletal issues.

In summary, while MDs and DOs in orthopedics share many responsibilities and capabilities, their foundational training shapes their approach to patient care.

‍

What are the subspecialties within orthopedic surgery?

‍

Subspecialties in Orthopedic Surgery

Orthopedic surgery encompasses a broad range of subspecialties, each focusing on different areas of the musculoskeletal system. Here's an overview of these subspecialties:

‍

Orthopedic Oncology

This area deals with musculoskeletal tumors, including both benign and malignant bone and soft tissue tumors. Surgeons in this field often collaborate with oncologists to provide comprehensive care.

‍

Total Joint and Reconstructive Surgery

Specialists in this subspecialty focus on replacing and reconstructing worn or damaged joints, such as knees, hips, and shoulders, often using prosthetic devices.

‍

Spinal Surgery

Dedicated to diagnosing and treating spinal disorders, spinal surgeons address conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and scoliosis, often utilizing both surgical and non-surgical techniques.

‍

Foot and ankle surgery

This subspecialty targets conditions affecting the foot and ankle. Surgeons manage issues ranging from fractures and sprains to ligament injuries and chronic deformities.

‍

Sports Medicine

Orthopedic surgeons who specialize in sports medicine treat injuries caused by physical activity. They handle everything from ligament tears and fractures to overuse injuries, as well as injury prevention strategies.

‍

Orthopedic Trauma

Specialists in orthopedic trauma focus on acute injuries resulting from accidents or violence, such as fractures and dislocations. They are skilled in complex reconstructive techniques to restore function.

‍

Hand Surgery

This subspecialty addresses disorders of the hand, wrist, and forearm, encompassing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and fractures. Hand surgeons often possess microsurgical expertise.

‍

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery

Surgeons in this field treat children's musculoskeletal problems, ranging from congenital anomalies like clubfoot to growth plate injuries and scoliosis. They provide specialized care, considering a child’s ongoing development.

Understanding these subspecialties allows patients to better navigate their treatment options and find the right specialist for their specific needs.

‍

What types of orthopedic tests can be performed?

Orthopedic tests help diagnose issues with bones, joints, and muscles. These assessments vary depending on the body part in question. Here's a breakdown of some common tests:

‍

Shoulder joint tests

• Neer’s Test: Used to detect rotator cuff impingement. This test indicates impingement but does not specify the exact structures involved. It's typically one of several tests administered during a comprehensive shoulder evaluation.

‍

Knee Ligament Tests

• Anterior and Posterior Drawer Tests: These tests evaluate the knee's ligament stability. They are preliminary tests, meaning positive results suggest potential ligament damage but require further examination for a detailed diagnosis.
• Valgus and Varus Stress Tests: These tests evaluate the ligament integrity on the inner and outer sides of the knee, respectively. Similarly, additional tests should supplement these stress tests as initial steps in diagnosing ligament issues.

‍

Lower Leg and Nerve Tests

• The Straight Leg Raise Test: This test assesses nerve sensitivity, range of motion, and muscle strength in the lower leg. Pain or altered sensation during this test can indicate conditions such as sciatic nerve issues or other muscular and joint problems.

Orthopedic tests are crucial for identifying various conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. These tests range from simple maneuvers to more complex procedures, each providing valuable insights that guide further diagnostic steps and treatment plans. For an accurate diagnosis, it's essential to follow up on preliminary tests with comprehensive examinations.

What non-surgical treatments do orthopedists offer?

‍

Non-Surgical Treatments Offered by Orthopedists

Orthopedists specialize not only in surgical interventions but also in a wide array of non-surgical treatments designed to alleviate pain and improve mobility.

‍

Medication Management

• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or prescription medications to manage pain and inflammation.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs: Medications to reduce inflammation and swelling in joints and muscles.

‍

Physical activity and exercise

• Customized Exercise Plans: Personalized routines to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Techniques to Enhance Muscle Performance and Prevent Further Injury.

‍

Lifestyle Recommendations

• Ergonomic Adjustments: Guidance on modifying daily activities to reduce strain.
• Nutritional Advice: Tips on diet changes to support bone health and overall wellness.

‍

Rehabilitative Therapies

• Physical therapy: exercises and treatments tailored to restore function and mobility.
• Occupational therapy: training to help patients perform everyday tasks with ease.
• Alternative Therapies: Options such as acupuncture complement traditional treatments.

Orthopedists often oversee these non-surgical approaches, collaborating with other healthcare professionals. During follow-up visits, they ensure adherence to the individualized plan and make necessary adjustments.

‍

What materials are used in joint replacement surgeries?

Joint replacement surgeries involve replacing a damaged joint with an artificial one. These procedures often use a variety of materials.

• Metals: Commonly used metals include cobalt, chromium, and titanium. We choose these for their strength and durability.
• Plastics: To create smooth surfaces that mimic natural joint movement, manufacturers use high-density, wear-resistant plastics.
• Ceramics: Parts of joint replacement occasionally use ceramics due to their hardness and resistance to wear.

We select each material based on its suitability for the specific needs of the replaced joint, ensuring its longevity and functionality.

‍

What is joint replacement surgery?

A medical procedure known as joint replacement surgery addresses severe joint damage or conditions that impede regular movement. The process involves removing the damaged parts of a joint and substituting them with artificial components.

‍

Types of Joint Replacement Surgery

1. Total Joint Replacement: This procedure replaces the entire joint.
2. Partial Joint Replacement: This procedure replaces only the damaged portion of the joint.
3. Revision Replacement: Wear or complications lead to the replacement of an existing artificial joint.

‍

Materials Used

Durable materials form the artificial joints, also known as prostheses. These include:

• Metals: People commonly use cobalt, chromium, and titanium because of their strength and compatibility with the human body.
• Plastics: Resilient plastic materials provide flexibility and long-term durability.
• Ceramics are highly durable and ensure a smooth surface for joint movement.

We chose these materials because they can mimic the natural function of joints while providing robust performance over time.

Joint replacement surgeries aim to restore mobility and alleviate pain, significantly improving the quality of life for patients with severe joint conditions.

‍

What conditions can orthopedists treat?

Orthopedic specialists are proficient in diagnosing and treating a wide array of musculoskeletal issues. They address both common and more specialized conditions, ensuring comprehensive care for their patients.

‍

Common Conditions:

• Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that can affect posture and mobility.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, leading to pain and numbness.
• Plantar fasciitis: pain and inflammation in the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes.
• Bone spurs are bony projections that can form along the edges of bones, often causing pain and discomfort.

‍

Specific Conditions:

• Compartment syndrome: increased pressure within muscle compartments, potentially damaging nerves and muscles.
• Bunions and Hammer Toe: foot deformities that can cause pain and difficulty walking.
• Spinal fractures are breaks or cracks in the vertebrae, often necessitating immediate medical intervention.

‍

Neuromuscular Conditions:

• Frozen shoulder refers to shoulder joint stiffness and pain that limits movement.
• Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases causing progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass.
• Cerebral palsy is a congenital disorder affecting movement, muscle tone, and posture.

‍

Pediatric Conditions:

• Rickets affect children's bone development, resulting in soft and weak bones.
• Sciatic Nerve Dysfunction: The sciatic nerve is irritated or compressed, causing pain that radiates from the lower back down to the legs.

Orthopedists leverage various diagnostic tools and treatment plans, including physical therapy, surgical procedures, and medication management, to ensure the optimal recovery and well-being of their patients.

‍

Foot and Ankle Problems: When Should You be Concerned?

If you are experiencing foot and ankle pain, it is likely a good idea that you get it checked out by a professional like a Podiatrist or an Orthopedist. You should especially seek medical attention if you do not have proper mobility of the affected area or if your pain and discomfort increase over time.

There are certain injuries or issues that can cause further damage if left unattended. There are also serious issues that may not cause as much pain as you would expect. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your feet and ankles.

‍

Diablo Foot and Ankle has a team of specialists with plenty of experience. Whether you need a podiatrist or orthopedist, we can help! Give us a call to schedule your appointment today.