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The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM

ARE PODIATRISTS REAL DOCTORS?

THEY CALL THEMSELVES DOCTORS BUT THEY ARE NOT PHYSICIANS. THEY DON'T GO TO MEDICAL SCHOOL RIGHT?

Hi,
The best way to think of podiatrists is in the same vein that you think of dentists. We are anatomical specialists, like dentists. Accordingly our study is geared towards the foot from day one,BUT, podiatrists also take courses in general anatomy, general medicine, radiology, etc.
My podiatry school is part of the Rosalind Franklin School of Medicine in Illinois.
Unlike dentists (as far as I know), podiatry students do hospital rotations in various fields, primarily the ones that relate to the foot like metabolic medicine, orthopedics,dermatology, neurology, radiology, etc.
After graduation, podiatrists are required to do a hospital based residency ranging anywhere from one to three years based on what the podiatrist eventually wants to do in practice.
Podiatrists do surgery in hospitals, write prescriptions including a narcotics lic.
Here in NJ where I practice podiatrists are under the jurisdiction of the State Board of Medicine, therefore we are subject to the same rules and regulations as medical doctors.
The problem with podiatry is an identity crisis. Over the last 30 years or so, we have probably been the fastest growing medical profession and with that we carry the stigma of our predecessors as chiropodists.
Some of the things we have brought to the medical arena include:
The ability to do same day surgery. We were doing it long before allopathic medicine.
The ability to do procedures with just local anesthesia.
We were the front runners in sports medicine.
We rewrote the book on biomechanics of the lower extremity.
Wound Care. Podiatrist (as well as other physicians) have been at the forefront of developing new high tech wound dressings.
Podiatrists have designed many new orthopedic surgical equipment and implant devices.

So, based on that description, you may draw your own conclusions.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Comments for ARE PODIATRISTS REAL DOCTORS?

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Feb 16, 2020
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Research your provider
by: Nama

First of all a podiatrist is not a medical doctor. They are not an MD. An orthopedic physician is an MD. There are pretty big differences in training that not everyone is aware of. While it is nice that podiatrists complete a "residency" it is a very narrow field of practice. Orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons do 5 years of residency and then 1-2 years of fellowship. We are talking many years of extra training, not to mention a medical doctor is qualified to treat the patient t as a whole, not just a foot or ankle. Simple procedures and diagnoses are ok for podiatrists. Complex surgical management is not appropriate for this field. There are good and bad providers in every field, but as a whole an MD is much more equipped to treat foot and ankle issues requiring surgery. A podiatrist can do it, but an MD is better and has better holistic management. An ingrown toenail, foot fungus, plantar fasciitis, maybe...maybe a bunion is ok for podiatrists. Anything beyond that no. Here is a better way to look at it. Does your MD see a podiatrist or an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon? The two are not equal at all. Same in nursing why does a medical assistant with 2 months training call themself a nurse? They are not an RN. Please do your research people.

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There is a lot to unpack in your comments. Correct, podiatrists are DPM's not an MD and as far as I know there are no podiatrists who represent themselves as an MD. The "residency" you refer to is a three year surgical residency, which by and large is enough cases to be properly trained to treat the majority of foot and ankle cases that we see in the office. Doing hips, knees and shoulders hardly qualifies an orthopedist to do feet.

We as podiatrists pride ourselves on doing foot surgery in a similar manner to hand surgeons as we are both working on small joints. I have scrubbed with general orthopedists who treat foot surgery like hip surgery and I am sorry to tell you, that type of technique does not translate well to small joints.

The one area I feel comfortable agreeing with you is in severe trauma. Orthopedists see more trauma, then the average podiatrist in training and I too feel that an orthopedist is the better option. Having said that there are podiatrists in certain hospital centers that see a lot of trauma, but that is not the norm.

I do not know the exact figures, but one trend that is developing is large orthopedic groups hiring podiatrists to do their foot surgery and non surgical foot conditions. I think that may answer your concerns about quality of training.

One area where podiatrists excel is in wound care. We are the go to doc in wounds of the foot.

BTW, over the years I have had a few dozen MD's as patients, and I have had others that have referred surgical cases to me, even though they could have sent them to the local orthopedist.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Jul 12, 2019
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Hard to convey
by: Charlie

A dentist is a Doctor of the teeth.
A Podiatrist is a doctor of the feet and lower extremities.

If you think a dentist is a "real" medical doctor, then you also think a podiatrist is a real medical doctor.
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I do not think of podiatrists as "medical doctors" because that is a MD degree, but I do view us as physicians, which is someone with a doctorate in health care, who practices medicine and surgery.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Nov 16, 2015
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Good one.
by: Mariann Culbe

Mariann Culbe

Jun 05, 2011
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Dr Who
by: Anonymous

But still you are simply not Doctors in medicine and
maybe din't get accepted in medicine school and went for the easy way of calling you selves "Dr." When you have to go by 4 years of undergraduate 4 of medicine school 4 of orthopedic and 2 more years of specialty in feet then you can call yourself surgeons in feet. Until then you are no more than a fungi Dr

Jan 25, 2011
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Change
by: Anonymous

You should edit this to note the changes in Podiatry residency training. All Podiatrists must now complete a 3-year, hospital based, surgical residency.

Just like any medical specialty, Podiatrists are good at what they do. Foot and Ankle. They won't diagnose/prescribe for an ear infection just like a Radiologist isn't going to medically manage a diabetic patient (regardless of wether they are legally allowed to do so).

Jan 25, 2011
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Dec 08, 2008
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All about podiatrists
by: By Anonymous

I have the highest respect of podiatrists never understanding what their job really entails. It is amazing!I recently had a lot of serious things go wrong but it's all good now. I had to go to a few foot doctors to find a great one but I did. He is definitely a medical doctor and a foot/ankle surgeon as well. He can write prescriptions and perform in-office procedures just like someone in the ER room if not better. Having such knowledge of how the foot is relative to your whole well-being and giving you tell-tale signs of something going wrong elsewhere in your body is awesome!!!!

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ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

Mayo Clinic

Johns Hopkins Medicine

MedlinePlus

Arthritis Foundation

University of Rochester Medical Center

Harvard Health

Drugs.com

American Academy of Pediatrics

Penn State Medical Center

National Institutes of Health

Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation

ScienceDirect

Stanford Health Care

Illinois Bone and Joint Institute

Mount Sinai Hospital

Institute for Chronic Pain

University of Florida Health

American Family Physician

Cedars-Sinai

University of Maryland Medical Center

MY PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS(items I prescribe in the office)

Orthotics for multiple types of foot pain best buy in a pre-made orthotic click link below

Orthotics for heel and arch pain for those who must wear dress shoes click link below

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NY

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NJ

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Fla

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Ontario, Canada

I found your website and articles most interesting.

Andrew

Fla.

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Judy

(location unknown)

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New York

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Memphis, TN

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Scotland

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J. Simmons

(location unknown)

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Thanks for the Response, you hit it on the head.

Steve

Redondo Beach, CA

Thank you for your time and expertise in answering my question…..

LH

(location unknown)

First, thanks for putting together this website. Its the most informative site I have found dealing with foot problems. Last June I started having pain and swelling at …….

Joe

(location unknown)

First of all, thank you for having all this useful information available in one place. I've been through most of your website and based on my research, pain and evaluations I think I've narrowed things down quite a bit.

Pete M.

(location unknown)

Thank you for the best site I have found when researching foot pain.

Glenda B.

Madison, Alabama

Thanks for replying so quickly. I was a bit concerned. I think your website is great, and chock full of info.....

Carol

Denison, TX

Dr. Marc, Thank you so much for your reply which seemed to be right on. I have researched many sites but you put me on the right path to the possible answer. My foot pain may not rule the rest of my life after all! I believe I'll make a sign that reads, "THE END IS NEAR!" Thanks Very Much,

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West lafayette, IN

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Tampa, Florida 33624

Hi. This is a great site! I'm a healthy middle aged woman who is in good health, but.....

Kelly

Texas

Just a wee word of thanks for your wonderful website...It is a terrific service...Thank you for providing your knowledge and help...With highest regards, m ebeling

Michael D. Ebeling

Tampa, Florida 33624

Thanks for a most interesting website, which has helped a lot.

Steve

Dear Dr.Mitnick

I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain.

I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

Dragica W.

Edmonton,Canada

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South Africa

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Mansfield Ctr, CT

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Placentia, California

First, I want to let you know that you have the best web site I've found related to foot issues. (The only thing I had difficulty finding was the "ask a question" page.)

Unknown

Unknown location

I received the orthotics Monday afternoon and began wearing them Tuesday. After two days I would say that I have noticed a huge improvement in the discomfort I have been experiencing. My foot feels better than it has in months.

Ric J.

Unknown location

I greatly admire someone like you who would donate and dedicate so much time and effort to helping strangers with no compensation. Truly, it is uncommonly kind. And your site is so intelligently arranged.

Ron R.

Pacific Grove, CA

I used to work for a podiatrist (front desk) back during summers in college years ago, so I know the benefits of good care. Again, I want to thank you for an EXCELLENT website. It was so great to get to your site (top of google search) and actually find all the answers I needed EASILY and QUICKLY! Clearly you put a ton of work into it and I really appreciate it.

All the best,

Victoria

Alameda, California

By the way, millions of websites could use yours as a guideline on how to organize information and make the site user-friendly. Kudos to you!

Anonymous

Thank you for your very interesting and informative site!

Anonymous

Hi. I come to your site often looking for information. It is really informative and I appreciate it very much. I have RA and have been having considerable amount of foot pain...... Dee RN

Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site.

Catherine

New Zealand

Thank You for my answer! I have been schedule for a bone density scan, allingment, and I am in the process of getting orthotics made, and checking out the natural remedies. Thank again! What a great web site!

Sincerely

Josette

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Arizona

I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/ was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick.

Thanks, Kathy

Florida

1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site......

Anna

Poland

Thank you so much for your response. I will let you know how I am doing if you would like. Your website is awesome!

M P

South Carolina

Hello! I want to thank you for such an informative website! I found you based on my ankle pain search and am happy to realize that there may be a relatively simple cause and solution....

Natalie

unknown location

...Thanks for your fantastic service.

Gary

Arlington, VA

Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA

Dr Marc is fantastic...He seems to know exactly what you are feeling with the problems you are having. I wish he was in my home town so I could go to him with my problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pam

location unknown

Great insights! Thanks Doc, you're the best.

Glen

location unknown

I have been experiencing foot pain of various sorts and am working to figure out what it is. I found this site and can only say BRAVO!! What an excellent site! The time it must have taken to put all this together must've been a daunting task! I am sure it has helped so many people. Thank you so very much for doing this.

Bre

location unknown

Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless.

anonymous

Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot. This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly!

anonymous

Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days.

Anna

Poland

Thanks for taking time to read and answer so many questions. It is truly a public service!

Esh

Seattle, WA

I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!!

Bonnie

location unknown

Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information.

Bill

New Jersey

Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie

location unknown

Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life.

Chrissy

location unknown

Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again!

Tracy

Evansville, IA

Dear Marc

I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge.

Russ W.

location unknown

Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response.

-Sunny.

location unknown

Thank you very much for the information, I will consider it. Excellent web site.

Jackie

San Diego, CA

Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply! After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable!

Rivi,

Albany, NY

Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless,

Jill S.

location unknown

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.

Jackie

Whichita, KS

thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA

Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Michelle

Colorado

Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor.

annielou

Colorado

Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.

Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly.

by: Max

location unknown

Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future.

Barb D.

Canada

I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better......

Bonnie

location unknown

Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel!

Nancie

Wisconsin

Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie

location unknown

Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again!

Renae

North Carolina

Many Thanks Dr Marc!
Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ...

KG

location unknown

Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida.

Bessie Mae

Florida

Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully,

Lynne T.

location unknown

Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public.

Robert

New Jersey

Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom

location unknown

I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!!

Melody

Lenoir, NC

Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response!

Rustam

Bellevue, WA

I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet!

Jodi

location unknown

ARE PODIATRISTS REAL DOCTORS?

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