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History of Medicine

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Perez on Medicine in cream lettering on a dark green background.

The Podiatrist

Centaur having his hooves inspected in a forest backdrop. Copyright: This image may not be saved locally, modified, reproduced, or distributed by any other means without the written permission of the copyright owners.

The Podiatrist by Jose Perez
(Oil on Canvas, 24 in x 30 in, 61.5 cm x 77 cm)

Copyright: This image may not be saved locally, modified, reproduced, or distributed by any other means without the written permission of the copyright owners.


Going to see a podiatrist is not nearly as frightening as going to a proctologist or an urologist. Few cancers occur on the feet, and most of the treatments are painless, so this patient is staying perfectly relaxed as the doctor and his assistants go about their business.

The full moon and stark landscape signify that the doctor doesn't need too many fancy tools to practice podiatry. No CAT scans, MRIs, or EKGs are necessary, only a few knives, files, and scissors, and enough common sense to know when to stop clipping away.


Last Reviewed: May 11, 2012