Division of Orthopedic Surgery
The Division of Orthopedic Surgery provides comprehensive musculoskeletal care, combining advanced diagnostics, surgical expertise and a long history of innovation and research to improve patient outcomes.
Podiatry
Care for foot and ankle conditions, from pain relief to surgery
Podiatry Care for Foot and Ankle Health
Foot and ankle problems can affect how you move, work and enjoy daily life. Podiatry care at Lahey Clinic focuses on diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, from minor injuries to complex disorders.
Care is personalized and may include preventive care, nonsurgical treatment or advanced procedures when needed. The goal is to relieve pain, restore function and support long-term foot and ankle health.
What Is Podiatry?
Podiatry is the medical specialty focused on the care of the foot and ankle. A podiatrist is a foot specialist trained to diagnose, treat and help prevent foot and ankle disorders.
Podiatric care is closely connected with orthopedics, especially when conditions involve bones, joints, tendons or ligaments.
Conditions We Treat
Podiatrists care for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including:
- Foot and ankle injuries, such as sprains, fractures and overuse injuries related to activity or exercise
- Diabetic foot problems, including ulcers, infections and circulation issues
- Foot and ankle disorders, such as bunions, hammertoes, heel pain and arthritis
- Nerve-related foot pain caused by nerve compression or entrapment
- Toenail and skin conditions, including ingrown toenails and calluses
Knowing when to see a foot specialist can help prevent complications and support mobility.
Diagnostic Services
Diagnosis begins with a physical exam and review of symptoms. Imaging tests may be used to better understand bone, joint or soft tissue concerns. Imaging helps us get an accurate assessment of your condition and plan your treatment.
More About Podiatry
Foot & Ankle Treatments
Treatment plans are designed to start with the least invasive options and progress as needed.
Conservative care may include:
- Physical therapy and strengthening
- Pain relief strategies
- Bracing, orthotics or activity change
Advanced and surgical care may include:
- Foot surgery or toe surgery to correct structural problems
- Complex foot and ankle surgery performed by a foot surgeon or orthopedic foot surgeon
- Reconstructive procedures coordinated with plastic and reconstructive surgery
Care decisions are based on symptoms, activity level, and overall health.
Team Approach to Podiatric Care
Podiatry care is part of a broader orthopedic team approach. Depending on needs, care may involve:
- Podiatrists and orthopedic foot doctors
- Orthopedic surgeons and foot surgeons
- Physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists
- Pain management and surgical care teams
Care is coordinated with specialists across orthopedics, with access to the full orthopedic care team.
