Understanding Chiropody in Ontario
A chiropodist is a regulated healthcare professional who specializes in the assessment, treatment, and prevention of foot disorders. In Ontario, chiropodists are registered with the College of Chiropodists of Ontario and hold a Diploma in Chiropody (D.Ch) from an accredited institution such as The Michener Institute of Education at UHN.
Chiropodists are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. They can prescribe certain medications, perform minor surgical procedures on the foot, and fabricate custom orthotics.
Chiropodist vs Podiatrist: What Is the Difference?
In Ontario, the terms "chiropodist" and "podiatrist" refer to different credentials and scopes of practice. Chiropodists complete their education in Canada and are the most commonly available foot care providers in the province. Podiatrists in Ontario are typically internationally trained and may have a broader surgical scope.
For most foot conditions — including heel pain, ingrown toenails, toenail fungus, corns and calluses, and diabetic foot care — a chiropodist is fully qualified to provide assessment and treatment.
What Does a Chiropodist Treat?
Chiropodists treat a wide range of foot conditions, including:
• Heel pain and plantar fasciitis • Ingrown toenails • Plantar warts • Fungal nail infections • Corns and calluses • Bunions • Flat feet • Athlete's foot • Cracked heels
They also provide services such as custom orthotics, shockwave therapy, and toenail reconstruction.
When Should You See a Chiropodist?
Consider booking a chiropody appointment if you experience:
• Persistent foot or heel pain that does not improve with rest • Thick, discoloured, or painful toenails • Numbness or tingling in your feet (especially if you have diabetes) • Recurring corns, calluses, or warts • Difficulty finding comfortable footwear • Pain when walking or standing for extended periods
Early assessment can help prevent minor issues from becoming chronic problems. If you are in the Maple, Woodbridge, or Thornhill area, contact Foot Forward Clinic to schedule an assessment.
Is Chiropody Covered by Insurance?
Chiropody services are not covered by OHIP. However, many extended health insurance plans include coverage for chiropody visits, custom orthotics, and other foot care services. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.
Foot Forward Clinic offers direct billing for select insurance plans, making it easier for you to access the foot care you need.