Podiatrist

Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, commonly called Podiatrists, are specially-trained doctors of the feet.

They diagnose and treat common foot, ankle, and lower leg problems using physical exams, x-rays, and laboratory tests. Some of common ailments that require podiatric care include bunions, bone spurs, arch issues, and hammer toes.

Depending how severe a foot problem may be, a podiatrist may perform surgery, prescribe medications, create orthotic inserts, or refer patients to receive other medical care.

Like physicians, podiatrists must earn undergraduate and graduate degrees and complete a three year residency program.