Career Profile: Podiatrists

Salary and Outlook

According to the US Department of Labor, there are 11,000 people employed as podiatrists in the United States. The median annual salary is $145,840. Entry level employees earn approximately $61,350 per year and senior employees earn approximately $208,000 (or more) per year.

Estimates do not include other potential benefits such as health insurance, overtime, or retirement benefits that may be offered by employers.

Job Duties

• Surgically treat conditions such as corns, calluses, ingrown nails, tumors, shortened tendons, bunions, cysts, or abscesses.
• Diagnose diseases and deformities of the foot using medical histories, physical examinations, x-rays, and laboratory test results.
• Prescribe medications, corrective devices, physical therapy, or surgery.
• Advise patients about treatments and foot care techniques necessary for prevention of future problems.
• Treat bone, muscle, and joint disorders affecting the feet and ankles.
• Refer patients to physicians when symptoms indicative of systemic disorders, such as arthritis or diabetes, are observed in feet and legs.
• Make and fit prosthetic appliances.
• Correct deformities by means of plaster casts and strapping.
• Perform administrative duties, such as hiring employees, ordering supplies, or keeping records.
• Educate the public about the benefits of foot care through techniques such as speaking engagements, advertising, and other forums.
• Treat deformities using mechanical methods, such as whirlpool or paraffin baths, and electrical methods, such as short wave and low voltage currents.

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