Frequently Asked Questions

Chiropody is the original terminology for foot medicine, while Podiatry is a newer term referring to the same line of work. Nowadays, most countries in the world have adopted the new term ‘Podiatry’ and have simply changed the professional name from Chiropody to Podiatry. It’s the same job, just a newer name.

Under the Ontario Chiropody Act, Chiropody is defined as “the assessment of the foot, and the treatment and prevention of diseases disorders, or dysfunctions of the foot by therapeutic, orthotic or palliative means.”

Ontario is one of the few places that still uses the term ‘Chiropodist’ and is home to one of the only “foot medicine” programs in Canada. After achieving a 4-year university degree in either a Bachelors of Science or Bachelors of Kinesiology, practitioners must attend the Michener Institute’s Chiropody program for an additional 3 years (7 semesters). Upon graduation, practitioners are eligible to write the examinations with the College of Chiropodists of Ontario. Only after successfully passing several examinations and becoming a member with the College of Chiropodists can one finally call themselves a Chiropodist and practice Chiropody in Ontario.

Many other practitioners will advertise that they make custom foot orthotics. Do not trust your feet, and subsequent orthotics, with just anyone! Chiropodists are foot and ankle specialists! We have been trained for over 3 years on foot conditions and how to treat them. To a Chiropodist, orthotics are corrective devices that promote entire body wellness. It’s a very important device to get right, and if not made correctly, can cause further pain and issues. Get a proper and detailed biomechanical and gait analysis by a trained foot expert to receive the best care for your feet and body alignment.

If you are struggling with stubborn plantar fasciitis or painful ongoing Achilles tendonitis, shockwave therapy may be a fantastic option to treat your pain. There is overwhelming evidence that supports shockwave as the best choice for certain conditions that do not respond well to other forms of treatment. Heel and Achilles pain can be quite stubborn, and don’t always respond to more traditional treatments, such as strapping, ultrasound, orthotics, icing, and stretching. Shockwave treatment involves sending mechanical pressure waves into the painful tissue to stimulate your body’s natural healing process, without the use of drugs! There is usually an immediate reduction of pain and increased mobility even after the first session. Everyone is different, but on average you will need 3-5 sessions, and each will last about 10 minutes long.