Podiatry is a medical profession that deals with the preventative, therapeutic and rehabilitative treatment of foot problems. Podiatrists have completed state-recognized training and also work with health insurance companies when prescribed by a doctor. Among other things, they treat pathological changes to the feet, such as ingrown nails, nail fungus, corns or pressure sores, especially in high-risk patients such as diabetics or people with circulatory disorders. The focus here is on medical foot health, not external care.

In contrast, medical foot care is not a legally regulated training and focuses mainly on cosmetic aspects. It includes measures such as cutting and filing nails, removing calluses or caring for the skin. Podiatrists are not allowed to carry out treatments that fall into the medical field, such as for inflammation or infections.

So while podiatry is a recognized health profession, medical chiropody remains a cosmetic service with no therapeutic claim.