Podologist or podiatrist
Podologist or podiatrist — who should you see?
A podologist provides foot and nail care. In the US, a podiatrist is a physician for the foot and ankle who prescribes medication and performs surgery.
Many everyday foot problems, such as calluses, cracked heels or thick nails, start with a podologist. Wounds, infections and anything that needs surgery belong to a physician.
Podologist
In Poland and in many European countries, podology is a separate profession with its own training. A podologist works on skin and nails that are intact or only mildly changed: thins nails, removes hard skin, rebuilds damaged nails and teaches home care. A podologist does not prescribe medication.
Podiatrist
A physician who specializes in the foot and ankle. A podiatrist examines and manages foot conditions, prescribes medication, performs surgery and orders imaging.
Who to see first
| Situation | Start with |
|---|---|
| Calluses, corns, cracked heels | a podologist |
| Thick nails that are hard to cut | a podologist; if a nail changes color or shape quickly, also a physician |
| A wound, an ulcer, diabetes with complications | a physician |
| Pus, fever, redness that is spreading | a physician |
| Bone or joint pain, an injury, a possible fracture | a physician |
A podologist and a physician do not compete — they complement each other. When a case is outside my work, I say so directly and suggest where to go.
Questions
I have diabetes. Can I come?
Yes, if there are no wounds or ulcers on your feet. Foot care for people with diabetes is an everyday part of my work. With a wound, an ulcer or redness that is spreading, see your physician first: that is outside foot care.
Is a podologist a physician?
No. A podologist is a foot and nail care specialist with paramedical training. A podologist does not prescribe medication or perform surgery. In the US, medical foot care is provided by podiatrists.
See also: first visit · about me