Chiropodist vs. Podiatrist in Ontario: What’s the Difference and Who to See for Foot Care

If you’re looking for foot care in Ontario, you may come across both Chiropodists and Podiatrists. While both are foot specialists, there are key differences in their training, availability, and scope of practice—especially in Ontario.

For most people in Ontario, Chiropodists are the primary foot specialists, offering expert care without a referral. But what exactly sets them apart from podiatrists? Let’s break it down.

Chiropodists: Ontario’s Foot Specialists

Chiropodists are regulated foot care professionals who assess and treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. They are trained to manage both acute and chronic foot problems, including:

• Foot pain and biomechanical issues – plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, heel pain

• Nail and skin conditions – ingrown toenails, warts, corns, calluses, fungal infections

• Diabetic foot care – ulcer prevention, wound management, circulation issues

• Custom orthotics and footwear solutions – prescription orthotics, bracing, footwear recommendations

Scope of Practice for Chiropodists in Ontario

Chiropodists in Ontario are licensed to:

✅ Assess and treat foot and ankle conditions

✅ Perform soft tissue surgeries (e.g., ingrown toenail removal, wart excisions)

✅ Prescribe and administer medications (including injections and topical treatments)

✅ Provide advanced treatments such as shockwave therapy and custom orthotics

✅ Manage high-risk foot conditions, such as those related to diabetes and arthritis

Chiropodists do not require a doctor’s referral, meaning patients can access care directly and without unnecessary delays.

Education and Training

To become a chiropodist in Ontario, candidates must complete a postgraduate diploma in chiropody, which includes extensive training in podiatric medicine, anatomy, biomechanics, and surgical procedures. The only accredited program in Ontario is offered by the Michener Institute in Toronto.

Podiatrists in Ontario: A Limited Profession

Podiatrists are more common in the U.S., but in Ontario, their numbers are very limited. This is because since 1993, Ontario has only registered new foot specialists as chiropodists. Podiatrists who were already practicing in the province before this date were allowed to keep their title, but no new podiatrists have been licensed here since.

Scope of Practice for Podiatrists in Ontario

Podiatrists in Ontario can:

✅ Assess and diagnose foot conditions

✅ Perform bone and soft tissue surgeries (potentially broader surgical scope than chiropodists)

✅ Prescribe medications, including oral drugs

However, unlike chiropodists, podiatrists in Ontario fall under the Physicians and Surgeons Act, whereas chiropodists are governed by the Chiropody Act. This difference in regulation means that chiropodists follow a more structured and modernized set of guidelines tailored to foot care.

Why Choose a Chiropodist for Your Foot Health?

For the vast majority of Ontarians, chiropodists are the go-to foot specialists. They offer expert foot care, including surgical procedures and prescription treatments, without the need for a referral.

At our clinic, we have three highly trained chiropodists dedicated to keeping your feet healthy. Whether you need treatment for foot pain, custom orthotics, or diabetic foot care, we’re here to help.

Book an Appointment Today

If you’re experiencing foot pain, nail issues, or other foot-related concerns, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with one of our chiropodists today and get expert care from Ontario’s trusted foot specialists.