Chiropody vs. Podiatry
People commonly ask, “what’s the difference between a podiatrist and a chiropodist?” So allow us to answer this for you.
In Ontario, chiropody and podiatry are interchangeable terms defined as “the treatment of the feet and their ailments.” This includes treatment and prevention of disease or disorders in the foot by therapeutic or orthotic means. Both professions undergo extensive training, and many have taken seven or eight years of post-secondary school. They both are the only regulated foot professionals educated exclusively in assessing and treating foot disorders. Some podiatrists have education and training to perform surgeries on the bones of the forefoot.
A Bit of History
The difference is where the practitioners were educated and registered with the College of Chiropodists of Ontario. Before 1993, the practitioner schooled in the USA in Podiatric Medicine would register as a podiatrist with the College. Now, all practitioners, regardless of where they received their schooling, are registered with the College of Chiropodists of Ontario.
What About Now?
In Ontario, chiropodists and podiatrists provide solution-based treatments, including sports injuries, orthotics, and footcare. If a practitioner has the title of Podiatrist, then they have received education in the USA and registered with our College before 1993. Since then, there have been no new podiatrists in Ontario. [2]
Did you know that Canada’s only English-taught chiropody program is in Toronto? The Michener Institute provides a student with the knowledge to enter the chiropody field to treat and diagnose your foot concerns. Here at Werkman, Boven & Associates, we frequently have chiropody students assist part-time to help their learning experience. Currently, Lauren is finishing up her final year at the Michener and works with us between classes.
