If you’re suffering from pain in any of your feet, ankles or areas of your lower legs, you’ll want to visit a podiatrist. A podiatrist is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). Podiatrists study, diagnose and treat conditions and injuries affecting the above-mentioned areas. Your primary physician may refer you to a podiatrist if they suspect problems in your feet, ankles and lower extremities.

Podiatrists complete 4 years of medical school and complete a 3-year surgical and hospital training residency. After residency, podiatrists are certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery in foot surgery and reconstructive ankle surgery.

Podiatrists treat people of all ages and most podiatrists treat a variety of general foot and ankle conditions. These include heel pain, ingrown toenails, toenail fungus, bunions, arthritis, plantar warts, hammertoes, flat feet, neuromas, arthritis and diabetic foot. Many podiatrists specialize in specific foot concerns or areas of foot medicine. These include bunion removal or correction, wound care, orthotics, sports medicine, fractures and pediatrics.

Podiatrists are true foot and ankle specialists. If you have concerns about your feet, ankles or lower extremities, consult with a local podiatrist.