Podiatry & Foot Care in Canada

A podiatrist is a foot specialist trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower limb, including some minor surgical procedures (in Quebec, podiatrists are "podiatres"). A chiropodist provides similar assessment and treatment of foot disorders; the title is used mainly in Ontario. A Canadian Certified Pedorthist specializes in custom foot orthotics and footwear to manage biomechanical and gait problems. Many foot clinics have more than one of these professionals on staff.

In most provinces you can book directly with a podiatrist, chiropodist, or pedorthist without a doctor's referral. Some extended health insurance plans require a physician's referral for reimbursement, and custom orthotics often need a prescription, so check with your insurer before your appointment.

Foot care and custom orthotics are generally not covered by provincial health plans, but many employer extended health benefit plans include podiatry, chiropody, and orthotics coverage, often with annual limits. Custom orthotics typically require a biomechanical assessment and a prescription for reimbursement. Coverage for diabetic foot care may be more extensive.

Foot and lower limb clinics treat heel and arch pain, plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, corns and calluses, fungal nails, warts, flat feet, diabetic foot complications, sports injuries, and gait or balance problems. Care may include custom orthotics, custom footwear, nail and skin care, and, from a podiatrist, minor procedures and cortisone injections.

Fees vary by clinic, and a first assessment usually costs more than a follow-up. Ask for a quote before ordering custom orthotics, since prices depend on the assessment and materials. Many clinics offer direct billing to extended health insurance plans.

Custom foot orthotics are prescription shoe inserts made from a mould or 3D scan of your feet to correct alignment, redistribute pressure, and relieve pain. They are prescribed and fitted by podiatrists, chiropodists, or Canadian Certified Pedorthists following a gait analysis and biomechanical assessment, and are often used for plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and diabetic foot care.