Podiatrists specialize in a number of foot and ankle problems. While I have an excellent general practitioner, I spent time and money trying to avoid going to a specialist and letting my doctor attempt to treat an ingrown toenail. I also avoided going when I was suffering from an ailment called plantar fasciitis. In both situations, I ended up seeing the podiatrist and received the relief I was seeking. I didn't realize that the specialist was there for minor problems like mine. I thought they were surgeons who handled dire foot issues. Now I want to run to my podiatrist when I get a splinter in my foot or stub my toe. Ok, so that’s a bit dramatic. I do want to talk about when you should see a podiatrist in the hope that you can avoid pain for any more time than necessary.