How To Find A Podiatrist

Given how much is riding on your feet and ankles, you don’t want to take chances when you experience pain, discomfort, or other problems.

Foot and ankle issues can limit your mobility and make every step a challenging ordeal.

Getting the right diagnosis and the right treatment from the right podiatrist is critical to restoring your health and quality of life.

There are almost 900 podiatrists in Florida, more than in any state other than New York, according to the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.

But most people don’t have a podiatrist on speed-dial or know who to call when they need help with a foot and ankle injury.

With so many podiatrists to choose from, how are you supposed to know which one is the right one for you?

Here are some tips and things to look for when looking for a South Florida podiatrist:

Start With Finding Friendly Referrals

Start by talking to people who know more than you or have had personal experience with a podiatrist.

Ask your family doctor or primary care physician for their recommendation, and speak with any friends or colleagues who have received treatment for foot or ankle problems and were satisfied with their doctor, treatment, and results.

If you get referrals from these sources, do some online research and see what other patients say about the recommended podiatrist.

Look Into The Podiatrist’s Education and Training

There is a reason that an entire medical specialty is dedicated to addressing problems of the foot and ankle.

Our feet are some of the most complex and intricate parts of our body.

Your podiatrist needs to have exceptional and focused knowledge, skills, training, and experience.

When doing your research, look where they went to medical school and did their residency and whether they are board-certified by The American Board of Podiatric Medicine.

Also, medical knowledge is continually expanding, and new approaches and techniques can dramatically improve treatments and outcomes.

It is essential that your podiatrist not just rest on their medical school laurels and that he or she constantly stays abreast of these developments through ongoing professional education and training.

Are They Leaders in Their Field?

The best podiatrists have the respect and attention of their colleagues.

Look for a podiatrist who is active in their profession, who frequently writes and lectures on foot and ankle topics, and who has been influential in the development and application of the latest technology and methodologies.

Always Stay Focused on Your Goals

Everyone who comes to a podiatrist for a foot or ankle problem has the same overarching goal: to have the doctor fix that problem.

Beyond that, however, each patient may have different goals, priorities, and concerns.

Make sure that you find a podiatrist who tailors their treatment to your specific needs and objectives by taking the time to ask you questions and understand your perspective.

Additionally, look for a podiatrist who explores all non-surgical or minimally invasive surgical treatment options before recommending surgery.

The best podiatrists know that surgery should be the last resort if other treatments can achieve the same results.

Trust and Comfort – The Doctor-Patient Relationship

The doctor-patient relationship is a uniquely personal one.

Patients enter the relationship vulnerable and in need of help, putting their health and trust in the hands of their physician.

It is critical that patients feel comfortable and confident that their podiatrist is not only competent and technically skilled, but that they also have empathy, concern, and a pleasant “bedside manner.”

South Florida’s Choice For Exceptional Foot and Ankle Care

At JAWS Podiatry, we know how painful and frustrating foot or ankle problems can be.

We also understand that you want to resolve any such issues as quickly and as efficiently as possible.

That’s why our foot and ankle specialists will explore all possible alternatives to treat your condition and see if a non-surgical solution can address your problem.

If we do recommend surgery, our experienced podiatrist will perform your procedure with the utmost care and precision, using the most advanced technology and methods.

Please contact us today at (954) 922-7333 or send us a message to schedule a consultation.

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