A podiatrist, or doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM), is a medical professional who specializes in treating ailments of the feet and ankles. Podiatrists complete four years of study in podiatric medical school, followed typically by three years of residency training in hospitals or clinics. After finishing this training, podiatrists have to pass various exams to become fully certified. Some podiatrists also gain additional specializations in areas such as podiatric surgery or diabetic wound care. Their in-depth education makes these doctors experts on the various foot and ankle problems that may affect their patients.

A podiatrist can help you by diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions such as ingrown toenails, blisters, warts, corns and calluses, bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, foot infections, excessive sweating, foot and ankle pain, acute and chronic injuries, arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, and peripheral artery disease. Podiatrists can also teach you about proper foot hygiene, how to maintain good foot health, and how to avoid injuries. These doctors can prescribe medications, orthotics, and various other treatments for all of your foot and ankle needs.

Many foot conditions and injuries get better if you put ice on them, take over-the-counter pain relievers and rest. If your pain continues, or you notice bleeding, redness, inability to put weight on your foot or ankle, red streaks, pus, strange bumps or lumps on your joints, or any other symptoms that seem unusual, it's time to make an appointment with your Stamford, CT foot doctor.