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Should I see a podiatrist or a rheumatologist?
“Podiatrists can treat all types of foot pain, but if your doctor suspects an inflammatory arthritic condition such as rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, it is very important to see a rheumatologist in addition to your foot doctor,” Dr. Solomon says.
Is it better to go to a podiatrist or orthopedist?
As a general guideline, if you have an injury, condition, or symptoms affecting your foot or ankle health, it’s best to see a podiatrist. If you have an injury, condition, or symptoms affecting any other part of your musculoskeletal system, it’s best to see an orthopedic physician.
What doctor looks at ankle pain?
podiatrist
For foot and ankle care, podiatrists and orthopedists are both qualified medical specialists you can consult. The best choice is to go for a podiatrist who has extensive experience diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot and ankle disorders.
Can a podiatrist diagnose rheumatoid arthritis?
Although doctors specializing in orthopedics or rheumatology typically oversee arthritic symptoms and disease progression, a podiatrist can help diagnose the condition in the feet and determine the best foot arthritis treatment.
What helps arthritis pain in ankles?
Foot and Ankle Arthritis Treatment
- Steroid medications injected into your joints.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs to help with swelling.
- Pain relievers.
- Pads or arch supports in your shoes.
- Canes or braces for support.
- Shoe inserts that support your ankle and foot (orthotics)
- Physical therapy.
- Custom-fitted shoes.
What does a rheumatologist do on your first visit?
“The first visit will include a physical exam in which your rheumatologist will search for joint swelling or nodules that may indicate inflammation,” says Dr. Smith. “Lab tests, such as X-rays and blood work, may also supply pieces of the puzzle to assist your rheumatologist in arriving at your diagnosis.”
Do podiatrist treat ankles?
“Podiatrists provide care for bones, soft tissues and joints of the foot and ankle, but also the skin conditions and abnormal mechanics of the lower extremity,” says John Giurini, DPM, Chief of the Division of Podiatric Surgery at BIDMC.
What is an ankle doctor called?
A podiatrist is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). A podiatrist has specialized training to treat disorders of the foot and ankle.
What does a podiatrist do on first visit?
The first visit is often the time to treat bunions, ingrown toenails, heel and lower back pain, circulation in your feet if you have diabetes, and foot deformities. The podiatrist might suggest orthotics, padding, or physical therapy to treat your problems. They can treat some conditions in the office.
What can a podiatrist do for rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis has no cure, but a foot and ankle specialist or podiatrist near you can provide a variety of treatment options that may ease your symptoms. These treatments may include medication, rest, physical therapy, orthotics, and steroid injections.
Is walking good for arthritis in the ankle?
That’s certainly the case for people with arthritis, many of whom tend to avoid exercise when a hip, knee, ankle or other joint hurts. Although that strategy seems to make sense, it may harm more than help. Taking a walk on most days of the week can actually ease arthritis pain and improve other symptoms.