Is podiatrist a better choice for ankle or foot pain ?

Yes: Just like you would go to the dentist for mouth and teeth issues, the podiatrist is well versed and prepared to address your foot and pain issues. Orthopedic surgeons that are fellowship trained in the foot & ankle can also more than meet your needs as well.

Not usually...: Depending on where you live both may legally be able to treat ankle problems. Both podiatrists and orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons treat foot conditions. Orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons have more extensive training in musculoskeletal problems and are a better choice in most cases. I would suggest finding an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon in your area. One can be found at www.Aofas.Org.

Specialist: A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine (dpm) who is qualified by his or her education and training and experience to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Practitioners may focus on many different specialty areas, including surgery, orthopedics, biomechanics, sports medicine, geriatrics, pediatrics, primary care, and wound care.