Podiatry is a field of medicine that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions associated with the foot and ankle by medical, surgical or other means.
The skills of podiatrists are in increasing demand because disorders of the foot and ankle are among the most widespread and neglected health problems.
Any time you experience sore feet or pain, you should consider seeing a podiatrist.
You do not need a doctor’s referral to see a podiatrist.
An up-to-date listing of podiatrists is provided by provincial podiatry associations. To find a podiatrists near you, click on the appropriate province below.
Alberta www.albertapodiatry.com
British Columbia www.foothealth.ca
Manitoba www.mbpodiatry.org www.mts.net/~copom/
New Brunswick (Not available)
Ontario www.opma.ca
Quebec www.ordredespodiatres.qc.ca
Nova Scotia (Not available)
Prince Edward Island (Not available)
The CPMA does not provide recommendations. If you are looking for a podiatrist, please refer to the contact information provided above.
Podiatric medicine is not included in the Canada Health Act; however, some provincial health plans (public medical insurance) provide partial coverage in select instances. Therefore, most podiatrists charge a fee to cover part or all of their services and treatment. Note: extended health plans (private medical insurance) often provide coverage for podiatric services — please verify with your individual plan.
Many private insurance companies include podiatric services in their coverage. Please check with your individual insurance company to find out if you are covered.
A biomechanical foot orthotic is a highly specialized piece of medical equipment that enables the joints and bones of the foot to be in a more stable position for standing and while in motion. Orthotics control each phase of the walking cycle, from the moment your heel contacts the ground to when your toes push off the surface.
Orthotics should be replaced a minimum of every two years.
There are several good Internet sites that provide information about podiatrists. Check out our “Links” page. Also, to find out the requirements for foot care in your province, contact the appropriate provincial association:
Alberta www.albertapodiatry.com
British Columbia www.foothealth.ca
Manitoba www.mbpodiatry.org www.mts.net/~copom/
New Brunswick (Not available)
Ontario www.opma.ca
Quebec www.ordredespodiatres.qc.ca
Saskatchewan (Not Available)
The CPMA Seal of Acceptance/Approval is a program that recognizes products deemed beneficial to foot health. The Seal of Approval program evaluates the use of therapeutic products. The Seal is awarded to a product after it has been recognized by the CPMA Seal of Acceptance/Approval Committee determines whether the product promotes quality foot health. The Seal of Acceptance evaluates footwear and other external products such as equipment, hosiery and materials.