Podiatrist

Podiatrists, or Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPMs) diagnose and treat foot and lower leg problems. The foot is an incredibly complex appendage; the foot consists of fifty-two bones, fully ¼ of all bones in the body. A complex web of nerves, ligaments, blood vessels and muscle surrounds the foot. Podiatrists may specialize in surgery, orthopedics, primary care, or public health.

Podiatrists have outstanding manual dexterity and an aptitude for science. Podiatrists also need a good bedside manner, self-motivation, and a strong desire to help others. Mental and physical stamina to handle the pressure is also important. As with any type of physician, podiatrists who have their own practice must also have good business sense.

Education and Credentials Required
Podiatrists must complete four years of undergraduate college, four years of medical school, and one year of residency. Some medical schools combine undergraduate and medical school into a six-year program. Competition for admission to medical school is intense. The first two years of medical school focus on anatomy and microbiology; the second two years are spend working in real-world conditions under the supervision of physicians. Every state requires all physicians to be licensed. Upon completion of residency, the prospective physician must pass an examination in a board specialty. Podiatrists have many paths to advancement open to them, and can become professors at colleges of podiatric medicine, department chiefs in hospitals, or general health administrators.

Future Prospects
Employment opportunities for podiatrists are expected to rise as fast as average. Opportunities will be best in rural and low-income areas, due to the lower concentration of physicians practicing in these areas.

Salary Range
The median salary, as of 2002, for podiatrists was $94,870. Self-employed Podiatrists can expect to earn significantly more than salaried Podiatrists. Experience, location, skill, reputation, hours worked and other factors impact income. Podiatrists pay for their own health benefits and retirement.