Should I See a Podiatrist or Physiotherapist for Foot Pain?

Foot pain is extremely common; however, deciding whether you need to see a podiatrist or a physiotherapist can be a little confusing. Both professionals offer valuable services, but they approach foot issues from different perspectives. Let’s take a look at some factors to help you choose the right specialist:

Understanding a Podiatrist’s Role

A podiatrist specialises in diagnosing and treating disorders of the foot and lower limb. If you are experiencing foot pain linked to chronic conditions like plantar fasciitis, or skin or nail concerns, a podiatrist is likely the right choice. They can offer treatments such as foot mobilisation, orthotics, and minor surgical procedures for issues like ingrown toenails.

Some of the most common conditions podiatrists address include:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Bunions
• Corns and calluses
• Athlete’s foot
• Diabetic foot care

Podiatrists also focus on correcting biomechanical issues that can affect your walking and lead to pain in your legs, feet, or back. They are highly specialised in foot anatomy and can provide custom treatments based on the structure and function of each individual’s foot.

Understanding a Physiotherapist’s Role

Physiotherapists treat a wider range of musculoskeletal conditions and focus on restoring movement and function across the body. If your foot pain is due to a sprain, strain, acute injury, or part of a larger issue affecting your knees or legs, physiotherapy might be the best option. Some of the conditions physiotherapists treat include:

• Tendonitis
• General muscle imbalances
• Acute injuries (fractures, sprains)
• Chronic pain conditions
• Post-surgery rehabilitation

They typically focus on exercises, rehabilitation plans, and manual therapy that target the root cause of the problem, ensuring they consider the whole body.

Which Specialist Should You See?

Choosing between a physiotherapist and a podiatrist usually depends on the nature of your foot pain. You should see a podiatrist if you have chronic foot problems or structural issues, such as flat feet, bunions, plantar fasciitis, or recurring pain. A podiatrist is also the best choice for nail or skin conditions, like corns or ingrown toenails.

A physiotherapist, on the other hand, is more suited to treating acute injuries, such as sprains, or if your foot pain is part of a larger issue affecting other areas, such as your knees or hips.

If you are unsure which treatment you need, it’s a good idea to consult your GP, who can refer you to the most appropriate specialist for your condition. In some cases, a combination of physiotherapy and podiatry may be required to treat your foot pain.

Conclusion

Both podiatrists and physiotherapists offer treatment for foot pain. Ultimately, understanding the root cause of your pain is key to determining the most suitable treatment.