What is Podiatry?

Podiatry – medical specialists who help diagnose and treat conditions of the foot & ankle.

Let’s talk about Podiatric Medicine, the study of the foot and ankle. Podiatrists are some of the most hardworking, dedicated and amicable group of professionals that devote their lives to restoring proper health to the lower extremities.

Are They Doctors?

Yes, Podiatrists are doctors, but they don’t go to a traditional M.D. school. Instead, they attend their own specialized schools, like optometry school or dental school. After four years of Podiatry Medical School, they attain a D.P.M. or Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, instead of an M.D. (medical doctor).

Podiatrists are capable of treating so much: they treat conditions of the skin, nails, muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, nerves, etc. In a world where we are constantly in motion, we rely heavily on our feet to get us to our destination, we need specialized doctors to treat them.

What Is Their Education & Training?

  • 4 years – Undergraduate
  • 4 years- Podiatric Medical School
  • 3 years- Residency
  • 1 year- Fellowship (optional)

Foot health is a very serious matter. In addition to taking care of your feet, you should also consider podiatric medicine as a legitimate medical profession you can step into; it certainly changed our lives, and I know it could do the same for you!

Conditions D.P.M.’s Treat?

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Achilles Tendon Injuries
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Bone Fractures of Foot & Ankle
  • Arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • Nail Pathology
  • Skin conditions
  • Bunion Deformity
  • Hammertoe Deformity
  • Pediatric Injuries
  • Wound Care

Ready to Apply?

All the 9 podiatry schools offer a centralized online application to submit all your personal information. This is done through the American Associates of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine (AACPM) website. Visit our Application page for more information. Check out some of our topics for more:

  1. Shadowing
  2. Internships
  3. Application (AACPM)
  4. Interview
  5. Decision Time