At Collective Foot and Wellness Clinic, we often get asked about the difference between a chiropodist and a podiatrist. Our patients aren’t sure what to look up, who to call, or which discipline will help them best with their foot conditions. So what is the difference between a podiatrist and chiropodist?
Chiropodists and podiatrists both deal with the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of problems with feet and ankles. In Ontario, both chiropodists and podiatrists are regulated by the College of Chiropodists of Ontario and Ontario Chiropody Act. They both must pass comprehensive Board Exams and provincial licensing exams to practice in this field.
What’s the Difference Between a Chiropodist and Podiatrist?
Basically, there is no practical difference between podiatry and chiropody in Ontario. Both terms denote medical work relating to the foot and ankle and include a variety of services – nail and skin care, soft tissue procedures, custom fit orthotics, orthopedic footwear, laser therapy, and prescriptions for topical antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. So why is there a difference in name?
Historically, both podiatrists and chiropodists practiced in Ontario with a few distinctions between them. As the needs of healthcare and the public in Ontario changed, it quickly became necessary to unify the field and regulate practice. In 1993, Ontario passed legislation to regulate the industry and education with a sole focus on chiropody as the common term. Since then, no new podiatrists have been able to register in the province.
Podiatrists and podiatry have a stronger link to the United States and are generally related to an American academic degree. On the other hand, a diploma in chiropody is provided in Ontario, therefore all practitioners in Ontario are registered as chiropodists. Podiatrists from outside Ontario also have to register as chiropodists to practice in this province.
So what’s the difference between a podiatrist and a chiropodist? In short, just the name. Chiropody and chiropodist are the terms officially used throughout Ontario in this field.
Collective Foot and Wellness Clinic maintains the highest levels of accreditation in the province and provide the highest technological advancements in the foot care fields. You can be sure that our registered chiropodists will provide you with the highest level of care.
For All Your Foot Concerns, Contact a Chiropodist in Ontario!
Collective Foot and Wellness Clinic in Hamilton is here to help you with your foot conditions and concerns in Ontario. Contact us today to book a chiropody appointment in Hamilton!