What They Do
A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the foot and ankle. In many countries, podiatry is recognized as its own distinct healthcare field with a dedicated degree, separate from general medical training, though the specific scope of practice can vary between countries.
What They Treat
Podiatrists manage a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including structural issues, skin and nail conditions specific to the feet, and foot-related complications of broader health conditions such as diabetes, which can significantly affect foot health over time. Many podiatrists perform minor procedures directly, and some pursue additional surgical training to handle more involved foot and ankle surgery.
Training Path
Becoming a podiatrist typically requires completing a dedicated podiatric medical degree, which focuses specifically on the anatomy, biomechanics, and conditions of the foot and ankle. Podiatrists interested in surgical practice generally complete additional dedicated surgical residency training focused specifically on foot and ankle procedures.
When to See One
People commonly see a podiatrist for persistent foot pain, structural foot concerns, or skin and nail conditions affecting the feet. People with diabetes are also often advised to have regular podiatric checkups, given how foot-related complications can develop more easily and be more serious in the context of that condition.
Background
Podiatry developed as a distinct healthcare field over the course of the 19th and 20th centuries, growing out of what had previously been a more limited, specialized practice into a more comprehensive field addressing the full range of foot and ankle health. The scope and formal recognition of podiatry as a healthcare profession has continued to expand in many countries, particularly regarding the surgical training some podiatrists pursue.