Intensive, focused training and in-depth experience are what set apart the foot and ankle surgeon from other physicians.

During their education and training, foot and ankle surgeons devote more time to a wide variety of foot and ankle procedures than do other surgeons. Because of this critical difference, foot and ankle surgeons are the most appropriate specialists to promptly diagnose and treat various foot and ankle conditions.

A foot and ankle surgeon must complete four years of podiatric medical school and typically three years of a residency program in foot and ankle surgery. This residency is similar to - and integrates with - residencies for all physician specialties. During their residencies, DPMs receive training in internal medicine and general surgery in addition to their focus on the foot and ankle.

Certification by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS) ensures that the foot and ankle surgeon has completed appropriate training, successfully performed a diverse range of foot and ankle procedures with good surgical skills and judgment, and passed rigorous oral and written exams.

Members of ACFAS are board-certified or in the process of becoming board-certified by the ABFAS. They have dedicated themselves to continuing their training and excelling in the field of foot and ankle surgery for the benefit of the patients they serve.

Source: ACFAS Website.