Saskatchewan Podiatrist

Podiatrists are experts in foot and ankle health. They treat and prevent a wide range of conditions. This can include infections, defects and injuries, as well as foot and nail conditions related to other major health disorders such as diabetes.

Podiatrists are eligible for licensure in Saskatchewan upon completion of training from an accredited school of Podiatry. The course curriculum consists of three to four years of training. Most schools of Podiatry require some undergraduate studies in science. Training includes basic medical sciences, medicine, surgery, pathology, pathomechanics, pharmacology, with the final two years dedicated to foot conditions and related medical conditions that manifest in the foot.

Podiatrists work closely with other health care professionals and are often referred by physicians, chiropractors and others for consultation. Referrals are not necessary but do inform the practitioner of a specific problem. Foot problems can have a huge impact on your quality of life. If they occur, podiatrists can help.

Executives

• President: Axel Rohrmann
• Treasurer: Nicholas Perry
• Secretary: Mariusz Gurgul

Training

Depending on where the training was received, podiatrists can take up to eight years of university-level education before beginning to practice as a podiatrist. Students who receive the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree first complete a four-year undergraduate program in the sciences at an accredited university, followed by an additional four years at an accredited College of Podiatric Medicine in the U.S. Students study courses in all basic medical sciences. In the final two years, the emphasis is placed on disorders affecting the foot and ankle and their various types of treatment. These courses are coordinated with clinical training in various university teaching hospitals. Upon completion, graduates obtain their Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree. Comprehensive Board exams, as well as provincial licensing exams, must then be passed before being licensed to practice. Students must also complete hospital-based residency programs of 1-3 years duration.

UK Podiatrists graduate with a 3 or 4-year degree course with either a BSc (Hons) Podiatry or a BSc (Hons) Podiatric Medicine from an accredited University. Further postgraduate training is available for those wishing to become Podiatric Surgeons.

Also, continuing education courses keep podiatrists up-to-date regarding new developments in podiatric medicine and foot surgery.