A podiatrist is a physician and surgeon of the foot. Podiatrists help their patients by diagnosing, treating and preventing foot disorders. Treatment may include surgical procedures, prescription drugs, corrective inserts, and physical therapy.

After college and completion of the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), training for podiatrists involves attending a specialized 4 year medical school, graduating with the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree (D.P.M.). After graduation the podiatrist will complete a hospital based residency program in one of several specialties including: podiatric surgery, orthopedics, or primary podiatric medicine. Successful completion of the competency exam administered by the National Board of Podiatry Examiners is required for state licensure. The podiatrist with extensive clinical experience may choose to seek board certification.

Some of the most common foot problems that podiatrists treat are ingrown nails, calluses, corns, bunions, hammer toes, heel spurs, warts, athletes foot, injuries, diabetics. Podiatrists are uniquely qualified to give feet the attention they deserve.