Orthopedic Doc or Podiatrist?? Any Experiences? Opinions?

Yardlie · ‎03-10-2010

Well, I went and did it! On September 3 I tripped over something walking in the dark at night. I thought I fractured my ankle, so we went to the ER. They took x-rays and said it was just a bad sprain. They gave me a brace for my ankle and told me to see an orthopedic doc for follow-up.

I saw the orthopedic doc a few days later. He said it was just a sprain. It kept bothering me, so I went back, and he ordered a CT scan. I got the results today...a fracture around the ankle bone. He said he was just going to treat it as a sprain and to come back in a month. I have some osteopenia, so he said it will heal very slowly.

I want to get a second opinion and am considering a podiatrist since they specialize in the foot. Anyone have any experiences with podiatrists? Which would you see...a different orthopedic doc or a podiatrist?

Thanks much!

A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal. ~~ Steve Maraboli

Ms X · ‎09-13-2012

I have never heard of a podiatrist doing ankle surgery. Have you? The ankle is not the foot. If you have questions about this treatment, can you call the office and speak to at least a nurse and, if you still have questions, the doctor when he/she is available?

Podiatrists have a much narrower training and expertise, it seems to me, when compared to an orthopedic surgeon. They are experts in their own area, but I believe the ankle is not part of the foot. Perhaps I'm wrong about that.

BalletBabe · ‎03-05-2011

@Yardlie I agree with MsX I worked for a podiatrist and they are only feet. If it is an ankle problem , stick with ortho Dr.

Ms X · ‎09-13-2012

@BalletBabe wrote:
@Yardlie I agree with MsX I worked for a podiatrist and they are only feet. If it is an ankle problem , stick with ortho Dr.

Yes, the ankle must bear a lot of weight and do many things laypersons like myself would never understand. That is a very big thing when it comes to one's everyday life. At major medical centers, you have orthopedic surgeons who mostly specialize in one or two joints: hips, knees, ankles, shoulders, etc. They are experts and the best of the best. People come from far and wide because they have a problem that is difficult and needs the attention of someone who is truly gifted. OP should trust her own intuition and if she wants a second opinion should find an orthopedic surgeon.

OP: What is the cost of waiting this out and seeing whether your current doctor is correct? You might want to call the office and tell them you still have symptoms and ask this question.

Annabellethecat66 · ‎03-12-2010

I'm speaking as someone who has seen orthopedic Drs for over 12 years (straight). I can tell you I think you'd be crazy to let anyone treat you other than an orthopedic Dr/surgeon. Period.

Irshgrl31201 · ‎03-18-2010

I think anyone who thinks they should get a second opinion, podiatrist do deal with the feet and ankles but I would go with a ortho doctor for a second opinion.

Those who make peaceful revolution impossible will make violent revolution inevitable.
JFK

libbyannE · ‎10-27-2010

Stick with a medical doctor, such as an orthopaedic specialist. Podiatrist? No.

Irshgrl31201 · ‎03-18-2010

@Ms X wrote:
I have never heard of a podiatrist doing ankle surgery. Have you? The ankle is not the foot. If you have questions about this treatment, can you call the office and speak to at least a nurse and, if you still have questions, the doctor when he/she is available?

Podiatrists have a much narrower training and expertise, it seems to me, when compared to an orthopedic surgeon. They are experts in their own area, but I believe the ankle is not part of the foot. Perhaps I'm wrong about that.

Yes, I have. They are specialist in feet and ankle surgery though I would still go with a ortho.

Those who make peaceful revolution impossible will make violent revolution inevitable.
JFK