We have a tendency to take our feet for granted. Every day, the 26 bones in each foot do their job, but every now and then, those bones, as well as the muscles, nerves, ligaments, blood vessels, and skin that comprise our feet, require some attention. When that happens, it's time to march into a podiatrist's office. 

Podiatrists are doctors who focus on foot care and treatment. They cure everything from irritating corns and calluses to fractures and diabetes-related illnesses. A podiatrist, like a medical doctor, can prescribe medication, request X-rays and lab testing, apply treatment, and, with certification, do surgery. They may be responsible for fitting corrective inserts, designing plaster casts and strapping to rectify abnormalities, and creating custom-made shoes. 

Pre-med coursework in college are required, followed by the medical college admission test, podiatric medical school, and, finally (in most states), a hospital residency programme. After becoming licenced, many podiatrists open their own practises or join a physician group. 

Specialties such as orthopaedics, primary care, and surgery can also be certified. Some specialise in areas such as sports medicine, where they treat athletes, ballerinas, and daily joggers. In every scenario, having solid interpersonal skills as well as a medical degree is advantageous. Patients rely on podiatrists to keep them walking.