Get Your Feet Moving With a Career in Podiatry |
 |
September 19, 2005
by JJ Singh
jj.singh@healthcare-programs.com
Healthcare Programs Columnist
How many times have you had to spend the day limping around because you injured your foot? Even a simple ankle sprain can change your whole daily routine – you have to hop on one foot, prop yourself up in the shower, even use crutches for a week.
Because feet are so important for your mobility, podiatrists are highly sought-after professionals who treat foot ailments. If you've ever thought feet are cute and you like working with your hands, a career in podiatry may be an exciting option for you.
What do Podiatrists Do?
As a podiatrist, you will treat any of the following ailments: heel spurs, ingrown toenails, calluses, corns, arch problems, foot injuries, and infections. Podiatrists use a variety of methods to diagnose foot problems such as visual exams, computer technology, x-rays, and laboratory tests. Treatments include:
- Prescribing medications or ointments
- Suggesting a rehabilitation program
- Ordering physical therapy sessions
- Carrying out a corrective procedure
Career in Podiatry
To become a podiatrist, you must first obtain your DPM (Doctor of Podiatric Medicine) along with a state license. The good news is that training to get those two requirements is not as difficult as you might think.
After earning your undergraduate degree, you can enter into a four-year podiatric medicine program. In the first two years of your coursework, you will focus on core sciences such as anatomy, physics, biology, chemistry, and physiology. In your third and fourth years, you will obtain practical experience through clinical rotations.
Post-graduate residency generally lasts one year.
Podiatry Salary
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the average podiatry salary is over $90,000. So what are you waiting for? It's time to get on your feet and find a program that will get you started in this unique and profitable career.
About the Author
JJ Singh is a recently returned Peace Corps Volunteer in South America where he encountered and wrote about innumerable health issues. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia where he earned a bachelor's degree in Economics.
Sources
http://www.bls.gov/
|
Related Articles |
 |
|
|
| |
