Podiatric medicine, commonly known as foot medicine, is a branch of medicine that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle conditions. There are several synonyms for podiatric medicine, including podiatry, podiatric surgery, chiropody, and foot surgery. Podiatrists, also known as chiropodists, are trained to provide medical and surgical care for foot and ankle disorders, from minor ailments like ingrown toenails to more complex conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers. It's important to visit a podiatrist regularly to maintain the health of your feet, as foot problems can lead to pain and discomfort that can affect your overall quality of life.