AL SB8

Expands the scope of podiatry practice in Alabama to include treatment of disorders of both the foot and ankle, previously limited to the foot only.

Adds "ankle" as a defined term consisting of the ankle joint (distal third of tibia and fibula) and surrounding soft tissue structures.

Updates the definition of "podiatry" and "practice of podiatry" to include ankle disorders alongside foot disorders in all treatment modalities (medical, surgical, mechanical, manipulative, and electrical).

Requires podiatric physicians to complete at least 36 months of post-graduate residency training approved by the Council on Podiatric Medical Educations of the American Podiatric Medical Association before surgically treating bone ailments of the ankle.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.