Podiatry is a division in the medical field which involves the study, analysis and treatment of various disorders that affects foot, lower leg and ankle. A medical professional who has obtained education and training in the treatment of infections or disorders that affect related structures of leg are called Podiatrist. Podiatrists can specialize in variety of specializations which includes geriatrics, surgery, pediatrics, biomechanics, orthopedics, geriatrics or primary care. The podiatrists who specialize in sports medicine and geriatrics are in great demand nowadays. Podiatrists also treat the injuries, deformities, infections and foot problems that are related to diabetes and other conditions. Other duties of podiatrists include designing of plaster casts for deformities and design of custom made shoes.  

Qualifying Exam

To become a podiatrist, one must have finished a course in Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. Prior to this graduation they must complete a bachelor’s degree in medicine. Many universities in the country offer this specialized medical specialization. The Podiatric Medicine study covers various subjects such as anatomy, biology, chemistry, pathology and physics. After completing the graduation they must gain experience in this field by undergoing residency programme in podiatry. To practice as podiatrists in hospitals, they need a license for the same. The licensing requirements may vary according to the country or state in where they wish to practice and for getting this license they have to qualify a series of examinations.

Who is eligible to apply?

The students who have successfully finished their HS education or equivalent examination of a recognized board with PCB from any reputed institutions can join the bachelor’s degree programme in medicine. The admission to this course in various institutions will be based on the admission test organized by the concerned university. Those who have pursued this under graduate medical degree can apply for a post graduation in Podiatry, i.e. Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. Then they can practice as podiatrist after completing a residency programme.

Key points in the process

• Pursue pass in the senior secondary examination with PCB or equivalent examination of any recognized board.
• Join the pre-medical college and obtain the bachelor’s degree in medicine.
• Pursue degree in Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and undergo residency programme in concerned field to get an exposure in Podiatry field.
• Obtain the license to practice as Podiatrist by qualifying the concerned examinations.

Skills required for a Podiatrist

A career in podiatric field is more suitable for the candidates who have strong interest in podiatry and deliver their services to patients who need their assistance. Besides this passion, they must have some good qualities to perform in this field. It is necessary for them to have an in-depth knowledge and training in the concerned field. They must have good patience, aptitude and manual dexterity. They must understand the related problems of patients clearly and give treatments accordingly. Since they interact with a wide variety of patients and other professionals, they must have good interpersonal and communication skills.