31 May What is a foot and ankle surgeon?
Foot and ankle surgeons are the surgical specialists of the podiatric profession. They provide complete
non-surgical and surgical care for a variety of conditions that affect people of every age. Foot and ankle
surgeons today are a new generation of skilled physicians. With the highest level of education, training
and board certification, they are the leaders in the field of foot and ankle care.
Board Certification
Foot and ankle surgeons are either board-certified or board-eligible by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery in foot surgery and/or reconstructive rearfoot/ankle surgery.
Look for the FACFAS or AACFAS credentials after your foot and ankle surgeons name—only Board-Certified Fellows of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons are distinguished with the credentials of FACFAS. Associate members are board-qualified with AACFAS credentials.
Unmatched Education and Training
- Four years at a postgraduate podiatric medical school to earn their DPM degree
- Minimum three-year foot and ankle surgical residency program
- Some are Fellowship Trained in areas such as reconstructive surgery, deformity correction and sports medicine.
Do More Than Just Surgery
Foot and ankle surgeons diagnose and treat all conditions of the foot, ankle and lower leg—from heel pain and bunions to diabetic foot care/complications as well as amputation prevention, ingrown toenails, arthritis, sports injuries, infections, trauma, fracture repair of both the foot and ankle, and much more!
Pioneers & Collaborators in the Care of Patients
Foot and ankle surgeons have pioneered breakthroughs in treatment protocols and surgical techniques that has helped millions of patients. Foot and ankle surgeons are experts in chronic conditions, such as diabetes, infections, cardiovascular disease and arthritis (which can all affect lower extremities). They also regularly collaborate on multidisciplinary teams (patient’s primary care doctors and specialists) in both the hospital and office settings to ensure the care our patients receive is the best and most comprehensive available.
When Should I See a Foot and Ankle Surgeon?
Anytime you have foot or ankle discomfort, changes in the appearance of your foot or ankle, an abnormal growth, an injury or a medical condition (diabetes, poor circulation, numbness etc.) that can affect your feet or your ability to function in certain activities is impaired, it’s time to see a foot and ankle surgeon.
If you’re experiencing foot and ankle pain, call Strash Foot and Ankle Care. It’s always our number one priority to helping you place your best foot forward, again!