An orthopaedic, foot and ankle fellowship trained lower extremity specialist is a medical doctor who completed an intense 5-year orthopaedic surgical residency and then pursued additional, advanced training in the treatment of leg, ankle, and foot disease. He or she has received 14 or more years of formal training and posses' surgical and non-surgical expertise in all areas of foot, ankle, and leg injury. Moreover, his or her experience with knee, hip, spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand disease affords a vast repository of knowledge and surgical skill that guides and aids in treatment of complex foot, ankle, and leg problems.
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Orthopaedic Surgeon |
Podiatrist |
| Medical Doctor |
Yes |
No |
| Training |
3-4 years of study at College or University
4 years of study at Medical School
Has done at least 5 years of post graduate surgical training in orthopaedic surgery and/or general surgery
Many orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons also complete advanced fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery |
3-4 years of study at College or University
4 years at college of podiatric medicine
Has done 0-3 years of post graduate surgical residency training in medical or surgical podiatry |
| Certification |
- Written examination administered by America Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons (MD's only)
- Oral examination administered by America Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons (MD's only)
- Continued medical education required
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- Continued medical education required
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Usual Treatment
Areas |
Foot, Ankle, Leg, Knee, Hip, Spine, Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist, Hand |
Foot and Ankle |
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American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Position Statement on Podiatry
The Orthopaedic Distinction
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Position Statement on Surgical Care of the Lower Extremities
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Reprinted with permission from the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society, www.aofas.org, copyright © 2010. |
