Podiatrists and Orthopedic Surgeons are both medical specialists of the musculoskeletal system. An Orthopedic Surgeon has to deliver in a wide area as they practice and diagnose different diseases within the system. Whereas a Podiatrist focuses on particular areas, especially the lower extremities, foot, and ankle. The difference between these two medical specialties can also be determined based on their education, area of focus, and training.
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Differences on the basis of education
Orthopedic surgeons receive surgical training after graduating from medical school. The residency training is 5 years. They may choose to participate in a fellowship program that is additional training in a particular area of Orthopedics. On the other hand, podiatrists complete their training in a podiatrist medical school followed by a residency training of 2 to 3 years.
Training level of Orthopedic surgeons and Podiatrists
The Podiatrist receives a total of 6-7 years of training. The Orthopedic surgeon will be certified as a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and the Podiatrist will be certified as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). Podiatrists often treat ingrown toenails, calluses, flat feet, heel spurs, and some other foot and ankle conditions.
Area of focus for Orthopedic surgeons and Podiatrists
While Podiatrists can "manage" certain areas of the foot, such as calluses, nail issues, and diabetic foot. Orthopedic surgeons are trained to recognize and treat many musculoskeletal deformities (surgery and not surgery when needed).
