5 Reasons to Become a Podiatrist
5 Reasons to Become a Podiatrist
By Dr. Farlyn Charlot-Wadley, DPM
My career in podiatry has been both challenging and rewarding. Like many professions, a passion for the work is vital to advancement and success. While some may not be immediately drawn to podiatry as a career path, it has deeply enriched my life in many ways. Here are five reasons why you should pursue a fulfilling career as a podiatrist.
Have you joined our profession already? Here are some helpful tips for becoming and staying board-certified.
1. Achieve work-life balance
Unlike many other medical professionals, podiatrists often benefit from flexible hours. This makes it far easier to raise a family, pursue hobbies, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Podiatrists can also choose to practice medicine in a hospital system or a private practice. This freedom can make it easier to find a lifestyle that works for you.
2. Give patients instantaneous pain relief
Patients who come to me limping often leave my office able to dance! Through both conservative, non-invasive procedures and surgery, podiatrists have the ability to positively transform their patients’ foot health. I enjoy figuring out how best to help my patients resolve their ailments.
3. Join a critical field that impacts many populations
Feet are crucial for balance and mobility; foot-pain indicates that the entire body is off-center. Podiatrists can keep patients walking, which prevents other critical conditions and enables elderly patients to remain active for longer. As the population ages, this healthcare will become increasingly valuable.
4. Customize your practice
Podiatry encompasses pediatrics, surgery, wound care, sports medicine, diabetic care, trauma, biomechanics, and more. As a result, podiatrists can choose from many specializations to design a practice they truly enjoy. Podiatrists also have the opportunity to collaborate with many other medical disciplines when caring for a patient. This can create unique opportunities for growth at all stages of your career.
5. Make a positive impact in others’ lives
My patients often express their appreciation for the work I do. This not only makes me smile but energizes my passion for podiatry. At the end of the day, knowing that I have improved my patients’ quality of life is the greatest reward.
My patients, colleagues, and CPMA have enabled me to grow throughout my podiatric career, and for this, I am sincerely grateful. If podiatric medicine interests you, I encourage you to shadow a podiatrist and learn more about this rewarding profession. You can also access student resources, including scholarships, interview tools, and more through APMA. Find more about the latest support, resources, and information here on CPMA's website.
