

                       Oh, My Aching Feet! 
      
                  Dr. M. H. Trent, 32, K.C.C.H. 
                        1517 Sixth Avenue 
                    Huntington, WV 25701-2997 


   There are more than 12,000 doctors of podiatric medicine in 
the United States. Their skills are in demand because foot 
disorders are among the most widespread and neglected health 
problems. 

   Such neglect may stem from a misconception on the part of many 
people that their feet are supposed to hurt. It is estimated that 
more than 75 percent of Americans will experience foot problems 
at one time or another in their lives, yet most of these problems 
could be eliminated or substantially alleviated via proper care. 

   The demand for podiatric services stems from three factors. 
First, hard, unyielding surfaces, such as cement, cause increased 
shock to our feet. Second, as Americans engage in more exercise 
and fitness programs, we become aware of the limits foot pain may 
place on full participation. Third, since foot problems are often 
the result of a lifetime of neglect and since the number of older 
Americans is increasing almost three times as fast as the 
population as a whole, senior citizens account for a 
disproportionate share of the growing demand. 

   Whatever the case, it is known that there were nearly 40 
million patient visits to podiatric physicians in 1983, and the 
1989 figure, yet to be tallied, is estimated to be as much as 20 
percent higher. 

   Among the most common painful conditions plaguing the human 
foot are gait problems, foot deformities, ingrown toenails, 
warts, tinea (fungus such as athlete's foot), calluses, corns, 
hammertoes, bunions, fractures, sprains and strains, ulcers and, 
not least of all, arthritis and bursitis. 

   Treatment of each condition varies. Also, each practitioner 
has his favorite treatment ranging from surgery to physiotherapy. 

   Selecting a podiatrist is best achieved through word of mouth 
with friends and relatives who have received competent care. 
Large advertisements, free foot exams, exaggerated claims, or 
promised results can be deceiving. 

   Podiatric physicians are licensed in all 50 states, the 
District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. In addition to private 
practices, they serve on the staffs of hospitals and long-term 
care facilities, on the faculties of schools of medicine and 
nursing, as commissioned officers in the Armed Forces and United 
States Public Health Service, in the Veterans Administration, and 
in municipal health departments. Many podiatrists today are also 
joining group medical practices. More than 70 percent of 
podiatric doctors have staff privileges at hospitals; more than 
90 percent practice in states which allow them to function as 
members of a hospital's medical staff. 

   Nearly all private and public health insurance plans provide 
coverage for the services of doctors of podiatric medicine. Most 
Blue Shield plans, as well as those of commercial insurance 
carriers, make provisions in their contracts for care of the 
feet, whether such care is rendered by doctors of medicine, 
osteopathy, or podiatric medicine. 

   In its continuing efforts to protect and improve public health 
and welfare, the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) 
has recognized and approved specialty boards in podiatric 
orthopedics, surgery, and public health. These boards confer 
certification on a podiatric practitioner who has satisfactorily 
passed written and oral examinations and has demonstrated 
knowledge and expertise in his or her chosen specialty. 

   Clearly, podiatry presents great opportunities for service, an 
exceptional career choice, and a lifetime of satisfaction. 

   For more information, write to the American Podiatric Medical 
Association, 9312 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20814. 


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M. H. Trent was raised in Naval Lodge No. 4, Wash., DC, and is a 
member of the S.R. Bodies of Huntington, WV. A member of the 
Board of Governors, Shriners Hospital of Lexington, KY, 1989-91, 
he has also served as the President of the Huntington Kiwanis 
Club and as Commanding Officer of the USN Sea Cadet Division. 

