Last Updated on May 29, 2025 by Andy Walker
Where to Look and How to Choose the Right Foot Specialist
If you’re dealing with foot pain, heel spurs, bunions, or chronic ankle discomfort, seeing a podiatrist can make all the difference. These foot and ankle specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, and the right one can help you recover faster, move better, and live more comfortably. But how do you find a podiatrist who meets your needs?
This guide will walk you through the most reliable ways to find a podiatrist in the U.S., including where to search, what to look for, and how to find someone who specializes in gait and biomechanical issues if you’re an active walker or runner.
Where to Look for a Podiatrist
You have several trustworthy options for finding licensed, experienced podiatrists near you. Here are the best starting points:
American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
The APMA’s Find a Podiatrist tool lets you search by zip code and filter by credentials, helping you locate a board-certified podiatrist in your area.
Your Health Insurance Provider
Most insurers offer a searchable database of in-network providers. This ensures your visits are covered, and you won’t run into surprise out-of-pocket costs.
Hospital or Sports Medicine Clinics
Major hospitals and orthopedic clinics typically have podiatrists on staff or partner with nearby foot and ankle specialists. Check their “Find a Doctor” or “Orthopedics” section.
Rating and Review Platforms
Sites like Zocdoc, Healthgrades, and Vitals include patient reviews, doctor bios, and appointment availability. Use these to screen based on experience, bedside manner, and specialty.
State Medical or Podiatry Boards
Verify licensing and look for disciplinary actions by checking your state’s medical board. You can find your board via FSMB.org.
How to Choose the Right Podiatrist
Once you’ve built a shortlist, use these tips to evaluate which podiatrist is best for your needs:
Consider Your Condition
Some podiatrists focus on surgery, others on diabetic foot care or sports injuries. Make sure the doctor treats your specific issue—whether it’s plantar fasciitis, overpronation, bunions, or heel pain.
Look for Board Certification
A board-certified podiatrist has completed additional training and exams. Look for certifications from the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS) or American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM).
Ask About In-Clinic Diagnostics
Podiatrists with access to X-rays, gait labs, or 3D scanners can diagnose and treat more effectively during your first visit.
Evaluate Convenience and Communication
Check if the office is easy to access, has nearby parking, and offers online booking. Read reviews to learn about the doctor’s communication style and whether patients feel heard and supported.
Call to Confirm Insurance and Availability
Before booking, confirm that they accept your insurance and ask about self-pay options if you’re uninsured.
How to Find a Podiatrist Who Specializes in Gait and Biomechanical Issues
If you’re a regular walker, hiker, or runner—or if you’re dealing with issues like overpronation, arch pain, or chronic joint strain—it’s worth finding a podiatrist with expertise in gait and biomechanics. Here’s how:
Search with Specific Keywords
Use terms like gait analysis, biomechanics, sports podiatry, custom orthotics, or motion analysis when searching on:
These keywords will help surface podiatrists who offer specialized assessments for walking or running patterns.
Review the Podiatrist’s Website
Podiatrists who focus on biomechanics often mention services like treadmill gait testing, pressure mapping, orthotics fitting, or video-assisted gait analysis on their clinic site.
Check for Sports Medicine Affiliation
Podiatrists who collaborate with physical therapists, sports medicine doctors, or running clinics often specialize in movement-related diagnoses. You can also browse members of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine (AAPSM) to see if they’re in your area.
Call and Ask Directly
Before booking with a podiatrist that you have found, ask the following questions:
- “Do you offer gait analysis or biomechanical assessments?”
- “Are you experienced in treating runners or active individuals?”
- “Do you prescribe custom orthotics based on gait studies?”
Ask for Local Referrals
Running shoe stores with gait testing services, physical therapy clinics, or orthopedic offices can often recommend podiatrists who focus on foot function and motion correction.
Pro Tip for Active Walkers and Runners
Finding the right podiatrist early can prevent long-term issues like tendonitis, stress fractures, and knee pain. If you walk or run several times a week and experience foot or lower leg discomfort, a specialist in biomechanics can evaluate your stride, shoe type, and even help with custom orthotics designed for your specific gait.
Helpful Resources
Here are some additional helpful resources in your search for a podiatrist in the U.S.
