Podiatrist

Podiatrists treat diseases and injuries of the feet. (Only somewhat recently have all the states recognized podiatry as a legitimate healing field.)

Podiatrists have degrees in podiatric medicine but not M.D. degrees, and they have not attended medical school. Many podiatrists have joined the ranks of sports medicine practitioners, since many foot injuries result from sports activities.

Some podiatrists are qualified to perform surgery on the feet when it is indicated. They also fit a variety of orthotic devices (inserted into shoes) to correct foot problems. The boom in jogging and walking for fitness has increased the demand for podiatric services.

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