What does podiatry mean?
Podiatry is the branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders affecting the foot, ankle, and related lower-limb structures. Practitioners are called podiatrists, and they treat a wide range of conditions, including foot deformities, skin and nail disorders, diabetic foot problems, plantar fasciitis, and difficulties with walking or balance. The term is used in both British and American English, although British speakers may also encounter “chiropody” for the care and treatment of the feet, particularly routine problems such as corns and calluses. Podiatry is especially important for people with diabetes, circulatory problems, or conditions affecting mobility. The word combines the Greek roots for “foot” and “healing,” reflecting the field’s medical focus. Although often associated with routine foot care, podiatry also involves specialist assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and advice on preventing future problems.
nounThe medical practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders of the foot, ankle, and related structures. Podiatry is the field practiced by podiatrists, who may also treat problems involving gait and the lower limbs.
- The medical practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders of the foot, ankle, and related structures.
"She specializes in podiatry, focusing on the treatment of foot injuries in athletes."
"The hospital expanded its podiatry service to include diabetic foot care."
"After years of working in general practice, she pursued a specialization in podiatry."
The plural is uncommon; it usually refers to separate podiatry practices or services.
"The network supports podiatries serving several rural communities."
Podiatry literally combines the Greek roots for “foot” and “healing,” turning the feet into a specialist branch of medicine.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does podiatry come from?
The word comes from Greek pous, meaning “foot,” combined with elements related to iatros, a physician or healer. The resulting field of medical treatment developed in the modern period as the study and care of the foot became a recognized specialty. Podiatrist and podiatric are related forms derived from the same medical tradition.
Related word forms
How podiatry is actually used
The term is used in both British and American English. In British usage, “chiropody” remains a familiar alternative, especially for the routine care of feet; in medical contexts, “podiatry” is usually the more precise term.
Easily confused with podiatry
Podiatry is the medical specialty concerned with diagnosing and treating foot and lower-limb disorders, whereas chiropody is a traditional British term for the care and treatment of the feet, especially minor problems such as corns and calluses.
Podiatry is the clinical medical practice of treating foot disorders, while podology more generally refers to the scientific study of the structure and function of the foot.