This major is a program that prepares individuals for the independent professional practice of podiatric medicine, involving the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and injuries to the foot and lower extremities.
Includes instruction in the basic medical sciences, anatomy of the lower extremity, functional orthopedics, foot biomechanics, podiatric radiology, dermatology, podiatric surgery, podopediatrics, sports medicine, physical diagnosis, emergency medicine and traumatology, practice management, and professional standards and ethics.
What can you do with a major/degree in Podiatric Medicine/Podiatry Major?
As a Podiatrist one of your responsibilities will be to treat patients with a wide range of problems including heel pain, bunions, warts, hammertoes, and toenail fungus. As well, you will examine and diagnose conditions, perform surgery, prescribe medications, and order imaging tests. Surgical procedures may include reconstruction of the foot and ankle. As well, you may choose to specialize in areas such as sports medicine or pediatrics.
The duties of a podiatric vary greatly depending on state certification, and local laws. To become a Podiatrist, you will need to complete a four-year professional program after college to receive the necessary Doctor of Medicine degree.
Trade Associations and Professional Organizations in Podiatric Medicine/Podiatry Major
Professional associations are groups of professionals dedicated to topics in specific fields. Professional associations provide a wealth of online resources, some of which are geared specifically towards students. These organizations typically also host conferences and events, providing great opportunities for learning and networking across your field of interest.
- American Board of Podiatric Medicine
- American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
- American Diabetes Association
- American Podiatric Medical Association
Publications/Magazines in Podiatric Medicine/Podiatry Major