Podiatrists

Podiatrists are medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. They are trained physicians who focus on both non-surgical and surgical care of the lower extremity, and in many places perform foot and ankle surgery when appropriate.

In the United States, podiatrists typically earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree after completing undergraduate prerequisites and attending podiatric medical school, followed by residency training. Licensure requires passing board examinations and state-specific requirements. Other countries have different training paths and titles, with podiatry regulated as a medical or allied health profession in many jurisdictions.

Scope of practice includes evaluation of common conditions such as bunions, heel pain, ingrown toenails, fractures, and skin or nail disorders; management may be non-surgical (physiotherapy, orthotics, medications) or surgical (foot and ankle operations). Podiatrists often provide diabetic foot care, wound management, and rehabilitation, and they may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices, frequently within multidisciplinary teams with primary care physicians, orthopedists, and vascular specialists.

Subspecialties include foot and ankle reconstructive surgery, sports medicine, pediatric podiatry, and diabetic foot care. Professional organizations, such as the American Podiatric Medical Association and board-certifying bodies (e.g., ABPM, ABFAS in the United States), oversee credentialing, continuing education, and standards of care. Regulations and scope of practice vary by country and region.