Your feet play a vital role in your overall health, mobility, and quality of life. When pain, injury, or changes in your feet begin to affect how you move, a podiatrist is the specialist uniquely trained to help. Understanding what a podiatrist does — and when to see one — can make all the difference in staying active and pain-free.

What is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist, or Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), is a medical specialist dedicated exclusively to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. Podiatrists undergo extensive medical and surgical training, allowing them to treat everything from routine foot concerns to complex conditions that impact mobility and long-term health.

Because their focus is solely on foot and ankle care, podiatrists bring a depth of expertise that ensures precise diagnoses and highly effective, targeted treatment plans.

Conditions Podiatrists (We) Treat:

Podiatrists provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages, addressing a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including:

• Heel pain and plantar fasciitis
• Bunions, hammertoes, and structural deformities
• Ingrown and fungal toenails
• Flat feet, high arches, and gait issues
• Sports-related injuries and stress fractures
• Ankle sprains, tendon injuries, and arthritis
• Diabetic foot care and wound management

Whether symptoms are mild or severe, podiatrists (as well as our team!) are trained to identify the underlying cause and treat it effectively.

Advanced Training & Specialized Expertise

Becoming a podiatrist requires years of focused education and hands-on clinical training. After completing undergraduate studies, podiatrists attend podiatric medical school followed by an intensive hospital-based residency in foot and ankle medicine and surgery.

Many podiatrists pursue board certification and advanced training in areas such as reconstructive surgery, sports medicine, wound care, and diabetic limb preservation — ensuring patients receive the highest standard of care.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

You should consider scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist if you experience:

• Ongoing foot or ankle pain
• Difficulty walking or standing comfortably
• Injuries related to sports or daily activities
• Changes in foot structure or toenail appearance
• Numbness, tingling, or wounds that heal slowly

Early evaluation by a specialist often leads to faster recovery, better outcomes, and long-term relief.

Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Care You Can Trust

At Curalta Foot + Ankle, our experienced podiatrists combine clinical expertise with advanced technology to deliver personalized, patient-focused care. We emphasize conservative treatment options whenever possible and offer advanced solutions when needed — always with your comfort, mobility, and long-term health in mind.

Our commitment is simple: exceptional foot and ankle care that helps you move confidently through every stage of life.