Podiatrists are health professionals who diagnose and treat medical and surgical problems and injuries of the feet and ankles, such as corns, warts, plantar fasciitis, bunions, or hammer toes. They also perform reconstructive surgery. Podiatrists provide care for people who need it, such as those who have foot problems...

You can help prevent foot injuries and problems. Avoid going barefoot. Wearing shoes can help prevent punctures and other injuries to your feet. Wear good athletic shoes. Shoes should have cushioned soles (especially heels) and good arch supports. Physical therapists, orthopedists, podiatrists, and sports medicine...

Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) are registered nurses (RNs) who have advanced education and clinical training in anesthesiology. CRNAs work with anesthesiologists, surgeons, dentists, and podiatrists in administering anesthesia during medical procedures. A CRNA must graduate from a program accredited by...

When you have diabetes, you'll need to check your feet every day. Look at all areas of your feet, including between your toes. Use a handheld mirror or a magnifying mirror attached to the bathroom wall near the baseboard to inspect your feet. If you can't see well, have someone else use this checklist to examine your...

Taking good care of your feet is an important part of the daily routine when you have diabetes. Post this list of steps for proper foot-washing and foot care in your bathroom. Use warm (not hot) water. Check the water temperature with your wrists, not your feet. Wash all areas of your feet. Pay special attention to the...

Learn the basics about corns and calluses, including how to treat them at home and how to help prevent them.

Checking a person's feet and keeping them clean and soft can help prevent cracks and infection in the skin. This is especially important for people who have diabetes. Keeping toenails trimmed—and polished if that's what the person likes—also helps the person. If the person you care for has diabetes or has foot problems...

Info on healthcare professionals with training in specific areas. Links to info on physicians and other specialty doctors. Also includes links to info on other health professionals like physician assistants. Offers tips on preparing for appointments.

When you have diabetes, your feet need extra care and attention. Diabetes can damage the nerve endings and blood vessels in your feet, making you less likely to notice when your feet are injured. Diabetes also limits your body's ability to fight infection and get blood to areas that need it. If you get a minor foot...

What is an ingrown toenail? An ingrown toenail is a toenail that has grown into the skin instead of over it. This usually happens to the big toe, but it can also happen to other toes. An ingrown toenail can get infected. It may be painful, red, and swollen, and it may drain pus. Anyone can get an ingrown toenail, but...

Discusses bone spur, a bony growth formed on normal bone. Includes info on common sites for bone spurs like the heel and shoulder. Covers causes, symptoms, and how they are diagnosed. Discusses treatment with medicines or surgery.

Defines flatfoot, its causes, and who is affected by the condition. Lists symptoms and discusses treatment options. Offers pictures of exercises that may help.

What is an Achilles tendon tear? An Achilles tendon tear—sometimes called a rupture—can be partial or complete. Partial tears may cause no symptoms. But complete tears cause pain and sudden loss of strength and movement. Middle-aged adults doing sports activities are more likely to get this kind of injury. Tears also...