What is it like?

[dddunit]

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I am curious about what the day in the life of a podiatrist, a podiatry student, and a resident is like. I know that it varies but I'd like to get more of an idea as I will be going to podiatry school very soon (I have already shadowed and I'd just like a more complete picture).

And what do you think podiatry will be like in the future and in the present than say a MD, physical therapist, pharmacist, or optometrist. Thanks.

 

[PADPM]

That's a question that simply can not be answered. There are so many possible different answers to that question.

diabeticfootdr has a hospital based practice with a strong emphasis on diabetes and research.

NatCh has stated many times that he values his free time and as a result only works between 15-20 hours weekly.

I've stated that I'm part of a very large group of over a dozen doctors and work very long hours, 6 days a week. I've been very active politically with various levels of the APMA, I've been a residency director, I've been involved as an examiner for the ABPS (surgical board), etc.

Other doctors on this site specialize in sports medicine, have practices specializing in orthotics, etc.

Therefore, there is a HUGE diversity regarding what a day in each one of our lives would be like.

So my recommendation would be to shadow MANY DPM's for a better cross section and you'll obtain your answer.

 

[NatCh]

PADPM is correct. There is a HUGE diversity in this profession and shadowing numerous doctors will show you the variety.

Another way to look at it is that it is possible to make what you want out of your own career.

 

[Feli]

Pilon from ER earlier tonight means I've completed the rearfoot trifecta of ankle, calc, and pilon fractures in less than a week on clinic/ER/floor duty. Throw in some met and digital fractures, I&Ds and lacs and punctures, etc for extra flavor. Subtract hours of sleep for being slow on my documenting/dictating. Add rounds at 6am or so tomorrow. Recipe makes for one good residency so far. 😴
...I'm surely due for a Lisfranc or two next time on ER call?

There's a thread called stories from pod residency you will find in this subforum OP may find interesting.

 

[dddunit]

Thanks for the posts. I know it varies and I have shadowed some podiatrists but I'd just wanted a more in depth picture and variety to the career. If anyone else has experiences pertaining to the school to the residency or to the career after residency please post it would greatly help me out.