Podiatrist - Altamonte Springs, Kissimmee, Mt. Dora, Orlando, and Sandlake-area.

Is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine really a Doctor?
Yes.Podiatrists specialize in medical care of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. They must have a doctor of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.) degree from a college of podiatric medicine. They must pass written and oral board examinations and must obtain a state license to practice podiatric medicine. Podiatrists work in private practices, hospitals, and clinics, and may become professors at colleges of podiatric medicine, department chiefs, and hospital administrators. Educational Requirements Admission to a college of podiatric medicine requires completion of at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate study, an acceptable grade point average, and acceptable scores on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Required courses include biology, chemistry (inorganic and organic), and physics. Prospective students are also evaluated on the basis of letters of recommendation, interviews, and extracurricular activities. Colleges of podiatric medicine offer 4-year programs similar to other medical schools. During the first 2 years, students take courses in anatomy, chemistry, pathology, and pharmacology. Third- and fourth-year students perform clinical rotations in private practices, hospitals, and clinics. During clinical rotations students take patient histories, perform physical examinations, interpret diagnostic tests, make diagnoses, and provide treatment. Graduates receive a doctor of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.) degree. Each state has its own licensing requirements, and many grant reciprocity to podiatrists licensed in other states. In most cases, an applicant must be a graduate of an accredited college of podiatric medicine and must pass written and oral examinations.

Why should I see a Foot and Ankle Associates of Florida physician?
The Physicians at Foot and Ankle Associates of Florida are interested in helping people with foot disorders. They have the intellectual ability required to successfully complete the required academic training and to pursue a course of lifelong learning, and the stamina required to work long hours. They have excellent communication skills and can get along with people well and instill confidence. Our Physicians and staff members enjoy finding solutions to problems, dealing with people, and directing the work of others. They must also be proficient in foot medicine -- they must have and apply the knowledge to diagnose foot diseases, injuries and disorders. Also, ethics is a strong point for these types of people because they have to do what is right for their patients with their best interests in mind.

Can a Podiatrist perform surgery on my foot?
Yes. Podiatrists diagnose and treat diseases, deformities and injuries of the human foot and help patients prevent foot-related disorders. Their treatment methods include braces, casts, shields, orthotic devices, physical therapy, and prescribed medications. They also perform surgery on the bones of the forefoot and the subcutaneous soft tissues of the foot.

What does a Podiatrist treat?
Podiatrists deal with all types of foot disorders, including ingrown toenails, tumors and cysts, bunions and bone growths, warts, corns and calluses, deformities from birth or neglect, sprains and fractures, abnormalities of gait and posture, and skin disorders. They help keep our feet in walking and working condition. Many podiatrists specialize in sports medicine and treat and operate on athletes. Almost all professional sports teams have a working podiatrist on staff. Another big specialty area for podiatrists is in gerontology. Many of the elderly have foot problems associated with circulation. Podiatrists also make plaster casts to fix bone fractures in the feet. When it comes to foot deformities, podiatrists analyze how people walk so that they can ease pain and discomfort felt in these people. They design braces, casts or special orthotics to help a person walk properly. Also, since all ligaments, joints and muscles make their way down to our feet, podiatrists can detect early signs of diabetes and heart disease.

This is my first visit to a Podiatrist. How long will my visit take?
Your Podiatrist will peform a detailed exam, including asking about your previous medical history. This is done in order to fully assess your current situation. Other procedures may be necessary including x-rays, surgical procedures or injections to treat your condition. The length of time you will spend in our office depends on the reason and complexity of your visit.

Does your office accept my insurance plan?
Please refer to our "Insurance" section for a complete listing of those plans that we currently accept.