stepaheadfootcare.com, podiatry, podiatrist, foot doctor, dr. david l. nelson, dr. thomas j. rizzo, feet, foot, doctor, adult foot care, child foot care, diabetic foot care, preventative foot care, medicare shoe program, foot ulcer, foot wound, heel pain, ingrown nails, foot relief, foot treatment, injuries, ingrown nails, skin lesions, warts, nail care, orthotics, xrays, geneseo, kewanee, foot appointment, American Board of Podiatric Surgery, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, DPM, As a specialist, a Podiatrist receives extensive training in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of foot and ankle disorders by use of medical, mechanical, and surgical means. A Podiatrist also understands how systemic problems (diabetes, arthritis, vascular disease, etc) affect the foot. Prevention of foot problems is a major focus of Podiatry, Before receiving a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree, a student must have completed 3-4 years of undergraduate study, followed by four years of specialized medical training at a college of Podiatry. After passing national and state Medical Board Exams the new doctor will continue training in a Podiatric Residency program of 1 to 3 years. These residency programs are focused on the medical and surgical treatment of the foot and ankle.