When it comes to choosing the right podiatrist it is easy to get lost in vast amount of information. Traditional research on search engines or word-of-mouth from friends, family or referring physicians simply does not cut it. “The health of your feet are extremely important and you must seek the top quality care you deserve,” says Dr. ElSamad, DPM, FACFAS, founder of The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery. “Ask questions like is your podiatrist double certified, where did they receive their training and how long had they trained and follow these simple steps.”
Define the general issue
Whether it is heel, toe or ankle pain you can never be certain what the root cause may be. A simple ache or pain can be the precursor to a larger issue and should be addressed immediately. For diabetics, this can be the fine line between amputation and salvage; an issue Dr. ElSamad is no stranger to (Best Foot Forward 2009). “What might seem like a simple cut or sore can lead to infection and quite possibly the loss of a limb in some cases,” states ElSamad.
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Find the right specialist for you
This is where you need to make the right informed decisions. “There is a grave difference between someone who is diabetic with foot pain and someone who is not,” says Dr. ElSamad, former Director of Diabetic Limb Salvage at St. Catherine’s and St. Mary’s Hospital. Do not just settle for whom your primary care physician referred you to. “It is okay to ask for multiple options and find the doctor who will work for you to provide the care you deserve,” emphasizes Dr. ElSamad. There are numerous websites where you can locate podiatry offices around your local area that offer convenient, friendly locations with knowledgeable doctors. “The best way to find this information is through the American Board of Podiatric Surgery at ABPS.org (abfas.org effective in June) or by viewing our certifications at TIFARS.net,” says Dr. ElSamad.
Inform yourself about your specialist’s’ qualifications
The American Board of Podiatric Surgery offers three certifications: Foot Surgery, Reconstructive Rearfoot & Ankle Surgery and Foot & Ankle. The average podiatrists obtain a Foot Surgery Certification that indicates knowledge of podiatric surgery, diagnosis of problems and surgical management of foot disease, deformities and/or trauma.
“Very few podiatrists go the extra mile to seek the “upper level” certification and that is what sets us apart from the rest,” states Dr. ElSamad, former U.S. Naval orthopedic team member. Board Certified Podiatrists in Rearfoot and Ankle, such as Dr. ElSamad, have all the knowledge of a typical podiatrist but harness more in-depth training in the structures that affect the foot, ankle and leg. “We strive to be the best and provide the best service for our patients and this can only done by taking our knowledge that extra step,” Dr. ElSamad said.
TAKE ACTION!
Once you have the names and numbers and are well informed, it is now time to take action and remedy your problem. “Do not let problems go untreated! I have seen too many cases that could have been avoided if the patient put their best foot forward and sought the proper treatment,” says Dr. ElSamad.
