Podiatric vs. Pediatric — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 7, 2024
Podiatric relates to the study and treatment of foot and lower limb conditions, while pediatric pertains to the medical care and treatment of children.
Difference Between Podiatric and Pediatric
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Podiatric care involves diagnosing and treating foot and ankle problems, whereas pediatric care specializes in managing health issues in children.
Podiatric professionals, known as podiatrists, focus on conditions like bunions or heel pain, while pediatricians handle general health, growth, and development in children.
Podiatric care is often required for adults with chronic foot issues like arthritis, while pediatric care is necessary for childhood ailments like infections or developmental delays.
Podiatric education requires a specialized degree in podiatric medicine, while pediatricians earn a medical degree with specialized training in children's health.
Podiatric treatments often include orthotics or minor surgeries, whereas pediatric treatments include vaccinations, preventive care, and growth monitoring.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Relating to foot and ankle health
Pertaining to the care of children
Focus Area
Foot and lower limb conditions
Health and development of children
Professionals
Podiatrists
Pediatricians
Education
Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM)
Medical Doctor (MD) with a pediatric specialty
Treatments
Orthotics, surgery
Vaccinations, preventive care
Compare with Definitions
Podiatric
Involving preventative care of the foot.
Regular podiatric check-ups can help avoid chronic foot pain.
Pediatric
Specializing in treating childhood diseases.
She completed her residency in pediatric infectious diseases.
Podiatric
Relating to the diagnosis and treatment of foot conditions.
The podiatric clinic specializes in bunion removal.
Pediatric
Involving routine vaccinations for children.
Pediatric clinics often conduct annual flu vaccinations.
Podiatric
Concerning orthotic therapy.
Podiatric specialists often recommend custom orthotics.
Pediatric
Involving emergency care tailored for children.
The hospital has a separate pediatric emergency ward.
Podiatric
Pertaining to podiatric medicine or surgery.
She pursued a career in podiatric medicine after college.
Pediatric
Relating to the care and treatment of children.
The pediatric department offers comprehensive healthcare services.
Podiatric
Referring to sports-related injuries of the lower limbs.
The runner consulted a podiatric specialist after an ankle sprain.
Pediatric
Pertaining to the growth and development of children.
The pediatrician monitored the infant's growth over several months.
Podiatric
The branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases of the human foot. Also called chiropody.
Pediatric
The branch of medicine that deals with the care and treatment of infants, children, and adolescents.
Podiatric
Of or pertaining to podiatry, the medical specialty concerned with the foot
Pediatric
(American spelling) Of or pertaining to pediatrics, the branch of medicine dealing with the care and treatment of children.
The hospital has established a pediatric intensive care unit.
Pediatric
Pertaining to the care and medical treatment of children.
Pediatric
Of or relating to the medical care of children;
Pediatric dentist
Common Curiosities
What conditions do podiatrists commonly treat?
Podiatrists treat bunions, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and sports injuries, among others.
Do podiatrists require the same training as pediatricians?
No, podiatrists earn a specialized Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), while pediatricians obtain an MD.
Are podiatric treatments invasive?
Some treatments are non-invasive, like orthotics, while others may require surgery.
What kinds of health issues do pediatricians address?
Pediatricians handle childhood illnesses, vaccinations, growth monitoring, and preventive care.
Can pediatricians perform surgery?
General pediatricians usually don't perform surgery but can refer patients to pediatric surgeons.
Can pediatricians treat adult patients?
Pediatricians specialize in children's health and usually treat patients up to 18 years old.
Is podiatric medicine part of pediatrics?
No, podiatric medicine is a separate field focusing specifically on foot and ankle health.
Do podiatrists treat children?
Yes, podiatrists can treat children, but they specialize in foot and lower limb care, not general pediatric health.
Is there any overlap between podiatric and pediatric care?
Yes, some foot conditions in children may require both podiatric and pediatric input.
Can podiatric treatments prevent future foot issues?
Yes, preventive care like orthotics can help avoid chronic conditions.
What qualifications do pediatricians need?
They require an MD degree and a residency in pediatrics.
Do pediatricians handle mental health concerns?
Pediatricians often provide initial assessments and refer to specialists as needed.
Do podiatrists handle leg injuries as well?
Yes, podiatrists treat injuries of the feet and lower limbs, including ankles and lower legs.
What qualifications do podiatrists need?
They need a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree and specialized residency training.
How often should children see a pediatrician?
Routine visits are recommended annually or as needed for specific concerns.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
