Our feet are very important parts of the body. They carry us through our daily activities and bear the weight of our entire body. However, many of us tend to neglect our feet until we experience pain or discomfort.
If you are dealing with foot problems or want to prevent them, choosing the right foot specialist or podiatrist is crucial for better foot health. The right podiatrist can help you find relief from any foot and ankle problems you have and can also prevent future issues, as well as educate you on all your foot concerns.
Here are some tips to help you choose the best foot specialist for your needs:
Check for Board-Certification
Before selecting a doctor or podiatrist, research their credentials to ensure they have the necessary qualifications and experience, in other words, that they are board-certified, which means they have demonstrated their ability to provide quality podiatry care.
Board certification for podiatrists is a process that demonstrates a podiatrist’s advanced knowledge and skills in their area of practice and is conducted by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM) or the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS).
Consider Their Specialization
A foot and ankle surgeon may have more experience or specialize in a certain area, such as diabetic wound care, sports injuries, or ankle replacement surgery. Consider this when you are searching for the right podiatrist for your needs. Check the doctor’s experience in treating your condition, as you want the most experienced podiatrist for your care.
Check Their Availability and Location
Another factor to consider when choosing a foot specialist is their availability and location. Look for a foot specialist whose clinic is conveniently located and easily accessible. This will make it easier for you to attend your appointments and follow-up visits. Also, consider their availability – is the doctor’s next availability months away? If so, can you really let the problem wait that long? These are very important considerations when choosing the right foot and ankle doctor.
Schedule A Consultation
Once you’ve narrowed down potential foot doctors, schedule a consultation with each one, so that you can meet the physician face-to-face and discuss further details regarding your treatment plan. By doing this critical step, you get to experience being in the actual podiatry clinic and assess the cleanliness, professionalism, and comfort level the staff provides. It also allows you to determine if the podiatrist is indeed right for you and that you arrived at an informed decision about your foot health.
Top Foot Specialists in RI and MA
At the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England, we have board-certified foot and ankle surgeons specializing in ankle replacement surgery, diabetic foot care, pediatric foot care, and sports injury treatment. We can provide you with the highest quality foot and ankle treatments, and a caring staff that is strongly committed to your recovery.
For any questions, or to schedule an appointment, call our podiatry office nearest you or use our convenient online form to send a request. The Foot & Ankle Institute of New England has locations in Warwick or Middletown, Rhode Island, or Fall River, Massachusetts.
