One of the most common questions I get asked is, what is the difference between a Chiropodist and a Podiatrist? To answer that question, I will present you with this great summary from the Michener:
What is Chiropody?
Chiropody is a branch of medical science that involves the assessment and management of foot and lower limb disorders. This includes the management of a wide variety of disorders, injuries and local manifestations of systemic conditions.
Foot deformities, infections and injuries not only limit your mobility, but can detrimentally affect your knees, hips and other parts of the body
A Chiropodist is a primary care professional practicing in podiatric medicine that specializes in assessment, management and prevention of diseases and disorders of the foot. An essential member of the inter professional healthcare team, the Chiropodist is skilled in assessing the needs of their patients and of managing both chronic and acute conditions affecting foot and lower limb function. As a primary care provider capable of independent clinical practice, these skills are often practiced independent of medical referral and medical supervision.
What does a Chiropodist Do?
The role of the Chiropodist is to maintain and improve patient mobility, to alleviate foot pain, provide health education and thereby improving one’s quality of life. A Chiropodist provides care to a diverse range of patients and can specialize in the following areas:
* Diabetic Care
* Sport Injuries
* Pediatrics
* Geriatrics
* Rheumatology
* Biomechanical and Gait Analysis
* Podiatric Soft Tissue Surgery
* Wound Care
What is a Podiatrist ?
A Podiatrist United States, podiatric medicine and surgery is practiced by a licensed Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). Education consists of a professional doctoral degree which is a four-year program followed by a two or three year residency. This training follows a four-year undergraduate college degree. The first year of podiatric medical school is similar to training that other physicians (either medical doctors or osteopathic doctors) receive, but with more emphasis on foot, ankle and lower extremity problems