A podiatrist, also called a doctor of podiatric medicine (PDM), is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing problems related to the foot, ankle, and other related body systems. A podiatrist typically cares for people of all ages. Some of the more common foot disorders they treat are bunions, heel pain or spurs, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, neuromas, calluses, corns, and warts. A podiatrist also specializes in the care for sprains, fractures, infections, and injuries to the foot, ankle and heel.

A podiatric surgeon who has been certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery has passed the required examinations, and has demonstrated knowledge of podiatric surgery. They have also shown that they are competent in the diagnosis of general medical problems and of the surgical management of deformities, foot diseases, and trauma of the foot, ankle and other related systems.

There are many different things that can contribute to foot problems. They may be caused by an infection or injury. They may be caused by over-working, or over-exercise. They may also be caused by systemic diseases, such as diabetes. If not treated early enough, foot problems may affect other areas of the body. They may cause pain in the lower back and in other joints. Foot problems may change how you walk or run. Naturally, if not treated soon enough, a simple infection could quickly change a persons's entire lifestyle.

Over the years, podiatrists have become more and more in demand as many people, old and young, begin to understand the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle by caring for their feet.