Podiatry, the specialized field dedicated to diagnosing and treating disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities, has ancient roots. Evidence of foot care can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where carvings in tombs depict individuals providing what appears to be foot treatments. In Greece, Hippocrates (circa 400 BCE), often called the father of medicine, wrote about removing corns and calluses using scalpels—an early nod to surgical podiatry. The importance of foot health was also recognized in ancient China and India, where early forms of foot therapy and massage were integrated into holistic medical systems.

Despite this early attention, podiatry didn’t emerge as a distinct medical profession until much later. In the 19th century, chiropody (an earlier term for podiatry) began to formalize in Europe and North America. Practitioners often worked outside the traditional medical establishment, focusing on minor surgical interventions, corn and callus removal, and general foot hygiene. In 1895, the first school of chiropody was established in New York City, marking a shift toward a more professionalized and standardized approach to foot care. This evolution continued through the early 20th century, especially as modern medicine advanced and the importance of specialized care became clearer.

By the mid-20th century, podiatry had firmly established itself as a recognized branch of medicine in many countries. In the United States, the profession gained momentum with the establishment of licensing boards, postgraduate training, and academic institutions dedicated to podiatric medicine. The term “podiatrist” began replacing “chiropodist,” reflecting a broader scope of practice that includes biomechanics, sports medicine, wound care, and surgery. Today, podiatrists play a vital role in managing diabetes-related foot conditions, orthopedic issues, and gait abnormalities—proving that what began as a humble trade has become an integral part of modern healthcare..

Useful Resources:
History of Podiatry (World of History)
History of Podiatry Practice (PodiaPaedia)