Genetic Counseling

What is it?

The foot may be considered a separate organ all by itself. It has around 26 bones and many more muscles, nerves and connective tissue. Podiatrist treat foot problems including bunions, in-grown toe nails, calluses etc. Podiatrists treat these problems with drugs or surgery. It is important not to confuse podiatrists with orthopaedic surgeons. Orthopedic surgeons are MDs who are trained in disease or conditions of the musculoskeletal system. Basically Podiatrists treat disease of the foot or below the ankle.

Academic Programs

To become a podiatrist one must go to special podiatry programs offered by colleges that offer the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). It is important to note that DPM colleges are not part of Medical School and are separate colleges.  DPM is a 4 year programs. The first 2 years are spent learning about anatomy, pathology, pharmacology, chemistry, and other basic sciences crucial to the development of medical knowledge. The second 2 years are spent in clinical rotation in facilities such as hospitals and clinics. During the clinical rotation, students begin to examine patients, take medical histories, and assist with treatment and surgery.

A major emphasis in podiatry programs is learning to refer patients to the correct specialist. This is due to the fact that the foot is an area of the body that can show early signs and symptoms of very serious medical problems, such as diabetes and arthritis. Podiatrists are trained to identify these conditions and promptly refer patients to specialists who can treat them. Students of podiatry also learn to fix foot fractures, perform foot surgeries, take medical histories, and prescribe medications.

Admissions

Admissions is competitive and is school specific. However, most programs require one or two years of post-secondary education. required courses are firs year University Organic and inorganic chemistry, Biology, Physics and English. A minimum of B average is required but final admission GPA required may be higher.

The Good

With the aging baby boomers and growing population there will always be a need for podiatrist. Podiatrists' salary is relatively high and start in the low to mid six figures.

The Bad

Many prefer to study Medicine which is also a four year program and not limit themselves specializing in only one part of the body.

-Some may not enjoy dealing with “feet” all day