All About Podiatry

What Is a Podiatrist?

A specialized doctor who diagnoses and treats illnesses, deformities, and other conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower leg is called a podiatrist. The letters DPM after your doctor’s name indicate that he or she is a podiatrist who has completed years of challenging classroom training and residency, ensuring that s/he is uniquely qualified to care for this part of your body.  The American Podiatric Medical Association currently lists nearly 18,000 members currently practicing in the United States.

When Should I See a Podiatrist?

You should see a podiatrist if you are experiencing sudden or chronic foot and/or ankle pain, or if there have been changes in the look or feel of your feet.  It’s also a good idea to visit a podiatrist for preventative care, even if nothing is wrong. This is especially important if you have a chronic health condition such as gout, which can lead to problematic foot and ankle conditions.

What Are the Qualifications of a Podiatrist?

Podiatric medical training is similar to the training of other doctors. Your podiatrist has completed four years of training in a podiatric medical school and followed it with three years of hospital residency.  Without question, a podiatrist is the most qualified health care professional to care for your feet.

Some podiatrists have subspecialties, just like other doctors do. These can include foot and ankle surgery, sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics (children), and diabetic care.

What Does a Podiatrist Treat?

A podiatrist like Dr. James M. McKee can provide medical diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle problems, including, but not limited to:

Can My Podiatrist Operate on Me? 

Depending on their certifications, state license, or credentials at a hospital, podiatrists can usually perform surgery on the bones, ligaments, tendons and joints of the foot and ankle. James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS is a is Board Certified with the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.  Dr. McKee has been a staff member at Anne Arundel Medical Center since 1996.  He performs surgeries at Anne Arundel Medical Center as well as in his own Ambulatory Surgical Center. Dr. McKee frequently performs such surgeries as:

  • plantar fascia release
  • bunion correction
  • ankle ligament reconstruction
  • hammertoe reconstruction
  • tarsal tunnel release
  • excision of a neuroma

Foot and Ankle Care at Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A.

Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. is the preferred destination for foot and ankle care in the area. Every day, Dr. James M. McKee and the friendly, professional staff see people just like you. Whether you have a specific concern in need of address a specific concern in need of diagnosis and treatment, or you simply want to maintain the good health of your feet and ankles, we’re here to help you. Call us today at 410-224-4448 or click here to schedule an appointment with Dr. McKee in our conveniently located Annapolis office. 

 

Podiatry Group of Annapolis