Chiropody
The Profession And Practice
Chiropody is a regulated health profession in Ontario and a branch of medical science focusing on the foot.
The practice of chiropody is the assessment of the foot and the treatment and prevention of diseases, disorders or dysfunctions of the foot by therapeutic, orthotic or palliative means.
Chiropodist
The Title
The title "Chiropodist" is protected and assigned to trained and currently licensed professionals practicing Chiropody in Ontario. Chiropodists have a unique legislated title that no one else is permitted to use, and they do not use the title doctor or any other title.
Port Elgin Foot Clinic requests you refer to your Chiropody professional as "Chiropodist" followed by their Last Name OR simply by their First Name.
Chiropodists are also known as "Foot Specialists" in Ontario.
Chiropody Practice Scope
Assessment and management of foot conditions
Chiropody involves the assessment and management of conditions affecting the foot, with care focused on improving function, reducing discomfort, and supporting overall foot health.
- Routine and advanced foot care procedures
- Ongoing foot care and maintenance
- Preventative foot care and patient education
- Care for older adults and individuals requiring assistance with foot care
- Management of nail and skin conditions
- Diabetic foot assessment and care
- Biomechanical assessment of the foot and lower limb
- Assessment and prescription of custom foot orthotics
- Use of clinical technologies to support pain management
- Prescription of medications within scope
- Administration of local anesthetics and conscious sedation, where appropriate
- Selected soft tissue procedures of the foot
- Surgical procedures within scope and based on clinical assessment
- Assessment of wounds with appropriate guidance and referral to wound care services when indicated
If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, nail or skin concerns, or require assessment for orthotic therapy, your chiropodist can assess and discuss appropriate care options.
When to See a Chiropodist?
Foot concerns, Assessment, and Care planning
If you are experiencing foot pain, concerns with nails or skin, changes in the way you walk, or difficulty with footwear, booking a chiropody assessment is an appropriate first step. Chiropodists assess and manage a wide range of foot conditions, including biomechanical concerns, pressure-related problems, and foot health risks associated with medical conditions such as diabetes.
Your visit includes a clinical evaluation, discussion of findings, and a care plan based on your needs. Where appropriate, treatment may be provided during the same appointment.
If further investigations or referrals are required, these will be discussed as part of your care.
If you are unsure whether this service is suitable for your concerns, you may contact the clinic for guidance before booking.
Values Guiding Our Practice