If you have been searching for a foot specialist in Ontario, you have probably come across both the terms chiropodist and podiatrist and wondered which one you need. The distinction causes a lot of confusion, but understanding it can help you find the right care faster. A chiropodist at our clinic can assess your foot concern and provide the same range of services most people associate with podiatry, including assessment, treatment, orthotics, and minor surgery. Learn more about the chiropody and podiatry services available in Cambridge.

Chiropodist

A chiropodist is a regulated health care professional who specializes in the assessment, treatment, and prevention of foot disorders. In Ontario, chiropodists complete a post-graduate program in chiropody and must pass board and provincial licensing examinations. Chiropodists can prescribe certain medications, administer injections, perform soft tissue surgery, and prescribe custom orthotics.

Podiatrist

A podiatrist in Ontario holds a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree, typically obtained from a school in the United States. Podiatrists registered in Ontario before July 31, 1993 retained the title of podiatrist and have a slightly expanded scope that includes bone surgery on the foot and the ability to communicate a diagnosis. No new podiatrists have been registered in Ontario since 1993.

What Is the Actual Difference Between a Chiropodist and Podiatrist in Ontario?

The main difference between a chiropodist and a podiatrist in Ontario is regulatory, not practical. Both are regulated by the College of Chiropodists of Ontario and must meet the same standards of practice. Both can assess foot conditions, treat nail and skin disorders, prescribe medications, administer injections, perform soft tissue surgery, and prescribe custom orthotics.

Why Does Ontario Use the Title Chiropodist Instead of Podiatrist?

Ontario is the only province in Canada that uses the title chiropodist. All other provinces use the title podiatrist. The split happened in 1993 when the Chiropody Act came into effect. Practitioners who were already registered as podiatrists before that date kept their title. Everyone registered after 1993, regardless of their degree, is registered as a chiropodist. This means there are a small number of practicing podiatrists in Ontario, and that number decreases each year as these practitioners retire.

Can a Chiropodist Do Everything a Podiatrist Can?

For most patients, yes. Chiropodists and podiatrists in Ontario share the same core authorized acts, including cutting into subcutaneous tissue, administering injections, and prescribing certain drugs. The main difference is that podiatrists registered before 1993 can also perform bone surgery on the foot and formally communicate a diagnosis. In practice, most patients in Ontario who need bone surgery are referred to an orthopedic surgeon, whose services are covered by OHIP.

Is a Podiatrist a Doctor?

A podiatrist holds a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree, but they are not a medical doctor. They do not hold an MD. In Ontario, the title “Doctor” must not be used in advertising or marketing by foot care professionals unless legally authorized. Both chiropodists and podiatrists are referred to as foot specialists or foot care professionals rather than doctors in public-facing contexts.

How Do You Choose Between a Chiropodist and Podiatrist in Cambridge?

For the vast majority of foot care needs in Cambridge and across Ontario, a chiropodist provides the same services most people are looking for when they search for a podiatrist. Chiropodists can assess and treat conditions like plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, fungal nails, corns, calluses, diabetic foot complications, and biomechanical issues. They can prescribe custom orthotics and perform soft tissue procedures.

Because no new podiatrists have been registered in Ontario since 1993, chiropodists are the primary foot care providers in the province. Patients do not need a physician referral to see a chiropodist. Many extended health insurance plans cover chiropody services, and some plans use the terms chiropody and podiatry interchangeably for coverage purposes. Patients should check with their insurance provider to confirm their plan details.

If your condition requires bone surgery or advanced imaging, the chiropodist will coordinate a referral to an orthopedic surgeon or other appropriate specialist.

Why Do Cambridge Residents Search for “Podiatrist” When They Need a Chiropodist?

The term podiatrist is more widely recognized across North America because every other province in Canada and all states in the United States use it. When Cambridge residents search online for foot care, they often type “podiatrist near me” or “podiatrist Cambridge” even though the practitioner they will see in Ontario is a chiropodist. Both terms lead to the same type of regulated foot care in this province.

Common Questions About Chiropodists and Podiatrists in Ontario

Do I need a referral to see a chiropodist in Ontario?

No. Chiropodists are primary health care providers in Ontario. You can book an appointment directly without a referral from a physician. Some insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement, so check with your provider.

Are chiropody services covered by OHIP?

Chiropody services are not covered by OHIP. However, many extended health insurance plans include coverage for chiropody visits, treatments, and custom orthotics. Some government programs may cover foot care for eligible individuals.

Is there a difference in quality of care between a chiropodist and a podiatrist?

No. Both are regulated by the same College and must meet the same standards of practice, continuing education requirements, and professional conduct standards. The quality of care depends on the individual practitioner, not the title.

If you still have questions about accessing foot care in Ontario, you can also read about whether you need a referral to see a podiatrist in Ontario.

Reviewed by Patricia Wilson, BScN, RN, DCh, a registered chiropodist in Ontario.

This information is for educational purposes and does not replace an in-person assessment by a qualified foot care professional.

If you are looking for a foot specialist in Cambridge, our clinic provides the full range of chiropody services. Contact us to book an assessment and discuss your foot care needs.