The Top 10 Things Foot and Ankle Specialists Wish Every Primary Care Physician Knew

Foot and ankle problems are common complaints of patients presenting to primary care physicians. These problems range from minor disorders, such as ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and ingrown toenails, to more serious conditions such as Charcot arthropathy and Achilles tendon rupture. Early recognition and treatment of foot and ankle problems are imperative to avoid associated morbidities. Primary care physicians can address many of these complaints successfully but should be cognizant of which patients should be referred to a foot and ankle specialist to prevent common short-term and long-term complications. This article provides evidence-based pearls to assist primary care physicians in providing optimal care for their patients with foot and ankle complaints.