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Podiatrist What They Do

Diagnoses and treats diseases and deformities of the human foot.

This career is part of the Health Science cluster Therapeutic Services pathway.

Surgically treats conditions such as corns, calluses, ingrown nails, tumors, shortened tendons, bunions, cysts, and abscesses.
Diagnoses diseases and deformities of the foot using medical histories, physical examinations, X-rays and test results.
Prescribes medications, corrective devices, physical therapy, or surgery.
Treats bone, muscle, and joint disorders affecting the feet and ankles.
Advises patients about treatments and foot care techniques necessary for prevention of future problems.
Refers patients to physicians when symptoms indicative of systemic disorders, such as arthritis or diabetes, are observed in feet and legs.
Makes and fits prosthetic appliances.
Corrects deformities by means of plaster casts and strapping.
Performs administrative duties such as hiring employees, ordering supplies, and keeping records.
Educates the public about the benefits of foot care through techniques such as speaking engagements, advertising, and other forums.

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Podiatrists

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People who do this job report that:

You would often handle loads up to 10 lbs., sometimes up to 20 lbs. You might do a lot of walking or standing, or you might sit but use your arms and legs to control machines, equipment or tools.
Work in this occupation involves use of protective items such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hearing protection, a hard hat, or personal flotation devices
Exposure to pollutants, gases, dust, fumes, odors, poor ventilation, etc.
Exposed to disease and infections more than once a month through work such as patient care, laboratory work, and sanitation control
Work in this occupation involves using your hands to hold, control, and feel objects more than one-third of the time
Work in this occupation requires being inside most of the time
Exposed to radiation more than once a month
Work in this occupation involves sitting more than one-third of the time

Working in this career involves (physical activities):

Careers that are more detailed or close to this career:

Physician -- Diagnoses and treats diseases, injuries, and other disorders and work to promote good health and prevent illness.
Podiatric Surgeon -- Manages bone, joint and soft tissue disorders in the foot.