Podiatrist | Career Planet

OFO No: 226903

Other names for Podiatrist:

Chiropodist
Podiatric Surgeon

Youtube clip – Looking at the career of a Podiatrist

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Podiatrist?

Podiatrists are highly trained medical professionals.

Podiatrists treat lower-leg conditions such as knock-knees, inwardly turned feet, skin infections, diabetes, arthritis, circulation problems, and sports injuries.

They also treat foot and leg disorders in children, older people, or disabled people.

Areas of podiatry:

General foot problems
Growth and development
Diabetes
Arthritis
Circulation problems
Sports injuries

They may refer the patient to a medical specialist, if they find symptoms of other problems.

Podiatry is a challenging career for someone who wants to work in the medical field and can be financially rewarding.

What does a Podiatrist do?

discusses treatments options with patients
advises patients on foot care
carries out a range of treatments using scalpels, chemicals and occasionally local anaesthetics
provides long-term care for people at high risk of foot injury or disability, such as people with diabetes
performs minor surgery such as removing bunions
screens children for foot problems
diagnoses and treats sports injuries
educates the public about the importance of healthy feet

Are you . . . ?

interested in working in the medical industry?
willing to work with feet and legs?
happy to work with people of all ages?
patient?
caring?
responsible?

How do I become a Podiatrist?

You will need a successfully complete a 4 year BTech Podiatry programme.
If you want to, you can complete a MTech too.

University of Johannesburg

Once qualified you will need to apply to the HPCSA to be awarded designation. Only then can you use the title: Professional Podiatrist.

TRAINING:

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