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Optometrists, also known as doctors of optometry (OD), provide most primary vision care and usually have an optical dispensary within their practice. They examine people's eyes to diagnose vision problems and eye diseases, and they test patients' visual acuity, depth and color perception, and ability to focus and coordinate the eyes.  Optometrists prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses and provide vision therapy and low-vision rehabilitation.  Optometrists analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.  They administer drugs to patients to aid in the diagnosis of vision problems and prescribe drugs to treat some eye diseases.  Optometrists often provide pre-operative and post-operative care to cataract patients, as well as to patients who have had refractive vision correction or other eye surgery.  They also diagnose conditions caused by systemic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, referring patients to other health practitioners as needed. 

Podiatrists, also known as doctors of podiatric medicine (DPM), diagnose and treat disorders, diseases, and injuries of the foot and lower leg.  Of interest, the 52 bones in the feet make up one-fourth of all the bones in the human body. Podiatrists treat corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, bunions, heel spurs, arch problems, ankle and foot injuries, deformities, infections; and foot complaints associated with diseases such as diabetes.  To treat these problems, podiatrists prescribe drugs, order physical therapy, set fractures, and perform surgery.  They also fit corrective inserts called orthotics, apply casts and strappings to correct deformities, and design custom-made shoes.  To diagnose a foot problem, podiatrists also order x-rays and laboratory tests.  The foot may be the first area to show signs of serious conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.  For example, patients with diabetes are prone to foot ulcers and infections due to poor circulation.  Podiatrists consult with and refer patients to other health practitioners when they detect symptoms of these disorders.

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