Podiatry is a field of medicine in which the problems related to the foot, ankle or lower leg are diagnosed and treated.
A podiatrist is the specialist responsible for treating any issue related to the foot, ankle or the lower leg. During an initial consultation, the podiatrist may order any imaging necessary for the diagnosis (X-rays, ultrasounds, MRI or CT scans). Podiatrists are prescribing practitioners; they can therefore prescribe medications such as antibiotics and also inject corticosteroids or local anaesthetics as needed. Fractures, dislocations or subluxations or other injuries in the lower leg region can be treated through podiatry.
Podiatrists also prescribe and fit specialised orthotics, casts, plasters, prosthetics etc. Rehabilitation of the foot and ankle can also be performed to help speed up recovery after the treatment.
