Orthopedic Surgeon vs. Podiatrist: Why Choosing a Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon Is the Better Choice

When it comes to foot and ankle health, finding the right specialist is essential to ensuring the best possible care and outcomes. Many patients are unsure whether to see an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon or a podiatrist for their foot and ankle issues. While both types of providers treat foot and ankle conditions, the training, expertise, and scope of practice between them differ significantly. In this article, we’ll explore these differences and explain why choosing a fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon is often the superior choice for comprehensive foot and ankle care.

Training and Education

Orthopedic Surgeon

An orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon is a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) who has undergone extensive education and training:

• Undergraduate degree – 4 years

• Medical school – 4 years

• Orthopedic surgery residency – 5 years

• Fellowship in foot and ankle surgery – 1 year of advanced, specialized training focused solely on complex foot and ankle disorders

In total, an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon completes approximately 14 years of higher education and training before practicing independently. Their training covers the entire musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles, which gives them a deep understanding of how foot and ankle issues relate to overall body mechanics and function.

Podiatrist

A podiatrist (DPM) follows a different educational path:

• Undergraduate degree – 4 years

• Podiatric medical school – 4 years

• Podiatric residency – 3 years

Podiatrists complete around 11 years of total education and training, with a focus limited to the foot and ankle. Their residency training is specific to podiatric medicine and surgery, but they do not undergo the same comprehensive orthopedic training as an MD or DO.

Scope of Practice and Surgical Expertise

Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon

• Qualified to treat the entire musculoskeletal system, including the foot and ankle.

• Trained to perform complex reconstructive surgeries, including:

  • Total ankle replacements

  • Complex fracture repairs

  • Ligament and tendon reconstructions

  • Arthroscopic procedures

• Expertise in managing foot and ankle conditions that stem from or affect other parts of the body (e.g., knee, hip, spine).

Podiatrist

• Primarily focused on the foot and ankle only.

• Able to perform some types of foot and ankle surgery but not typically trained in more complex orthopedic procedures like total ankle replacements or complicated trauma cases.

• May be limited in addressing broader musculoskeletal issues that impact foot and ankle health.

  
  

Diagnosis and Treatment Complexity

Orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons are better equipped to handle:✔️ Severe fractures and dislocations✔️ Advanced arthritis and joint degeneration✔️ Complex ligament and tendon injuries✔️ Foot and ankle deformities (e.g., flatfoot, high arches)✔️ Sports injuries requiring reconstruction

Podiatrists often focus on:✔️ Routine foot care (e.g., toenail issues, calluses)✔️ Diabetic foot care✔️ Minor surgical procedures✔️ Custom orthotics and shoe modifications

Why an Orthopedic Surgeon Is the Better Choice

1.    Broader Medical Knowledge – Orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons have a deep understanding of how foot and ankle issues relate to the entire body. They can assess how gait abnormalities, knee or hip misalignment, and spinal issues contribute to foot pain and dysfunction.

2.    Advanced Surgical Training – Fellowship training equips orthopedic surgeons to handle more complex cases, including total ankle replacements and multi-ligament reconstructions—procedures beyond the scope of most podiatrists.

3.    Holistic Treatment Approach – Orthopedic surgeons are trained to evaluate and treat the musculoskeletal system as a whole, leading to more comprehensive and effective care.

4.    Greater Surgical Precision – Because orthopedic surgeons are trained in both open and minimally invasive surgical techniques, they can tailor surgical approaches to each patient’s unique anatomy and condition.

Conclusion

While podiatrists play an important role in routine foot and ankle care, a fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon offers a higher level of expertise for complex and advanced conditions. From sports injuries to reconstructive surgery, orthopedic surgeons have the training, experience, and skill to deliver the best outcomes for patients with serious foot and ankle issues. If you’re dealing with a complex foot or ankle problem or considering surgery, choosing an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon ensures that you receive the highest standard of care.

For expert foot and ankle care, schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert Mihalich, a fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon with years of experience in treating complex foot and ankle conditions. Visit robertmihalichmd.com to learn more and book your appointment today!