Foot and ankle problems are some of the most common conditions people experience. We use our feet and ankles for many of our activities, and the daily pressure and stress they experience cause wear and tear damage. There’s always a possibility for accidents or injuries.
Common treatments include physical therapy and medication. However, these options may prove ineffective and require surgical treatment. Here are some tips to help you find the best foot and ankle surgeon.
Choose Between a Podiatric and Orthopedic Surgeon
Orthopedists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions of the musculoskeletal system. They can treat diseases involving your neck, shoulders, back, hips, legs, knees, and feet. Orthopedic doctors can specialize in specific areas of the body and may receive further extensive training in surgical treatments.
On the other hand, podiatrists are experts who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions involving the ankle and foot. They are trained and skilled in conducting various treatments for the lower extremities. Podiatrists may or may not be an expert in surgery.
When your ailment is localized in your foot and ankle and you’re looking for a surgeon to help you, it’s best to consult with a podiatric surgeon. You may check his/her credentials, expertise, and specializations online or call him/her to inquire.
Check Their Credibility and Experience
Once you’ve decided which kind of healthcare provider you need, you must look into their credibility. Verify your doctor’s license to practice medicine. Inquire about their experience in treating your condition. You can do this by checking online, reading reviews, and seeking information from friends and work colleagues.
You can also seek reviews from previous patients or close friends. Feedback from other people will help you gauge what your experience will be with the foot and ankle surgeon. Finding a doctor who can understand the nuances of your conditions and your personal goals is also essential.
The best foot and ankle surgeon should not only carry out your podiatric surgery. They should also give you the necessary preoperative checkups and postoperative evaluations to monitor your healing.
Find a Surgeon You Can Be Comfortable With
Surgery is an invasive technique, and depending on the procedure you need, recovery can take time. So before finalizing your decision, ask yourself if you are comfortable with the surgeon you have chosen. Being comfortable with your surgeon will help you communicate better and be more transparent, which is necessary throughout your treatment process.
Verifying Their Accessibility
You have to find a service that is accessible and convenient for you. Find a surgeon with a clinic close to you to decrease the burden of driving or taking public transport for a long time. These simple activities can be more challenging to endure before surgery and during recovery.
Accessibility also involves finances because surgery can be a costly treatment. So, check with their clinical staff to ensure they accept your insurance.
Top-Notch Foot and Ankle Surgeon in Maryland
There are lots of factors to consider when looking for the best foot and ankle surgeon for you. Choose an accessible surgeon with experience, credibility, and understanding of your needs.
The Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland specializes in foot and ankle care. Our podiatrists, Dr. Marc Lipton and Dr. Roberto Brandão, are knowledgeable and trained in surgical and conservative techniques in treating a variety of lower extremity conditions.
We have locations in Catonsville, Columbia, and Eldersburg, Maryland. For inquiries and concerns, call us at our office at (410) 644-1880. You can also book an appointment with our doctors through this secure online form. We look forward to hearing from you.
