Chiropody 

Who We Are

A Chiropodist (pronounced : ‘ker-ro-po-dist’) is a primary health care provider, described as a foot specialist, who provides a variety of medical services including nail and skin care. Chiropodists will assess and provide treatment including management of acute and chronic conditions. They also play a role in the prevention of injury and disability and in promoting foot health and wellbeing.

Chiropodists complete seven years of post-secondary education before starting their chiropody career. Students who receive their Advanced Graduate Diploma in Chiropody start their journey with a four-year undergraduate program in the sciences at an accredited university, followed by an additional three years at a post-secondary program approved by the College of Chiropodists. The  curriculum includes courses in health sciences, podiatric medicine, humanities and clinical education. These courses are paired with clinical training in approved chiropody clinical sites. Board exams, as well as provincial licensing exams, must then be passed before receiving a license to practice.

At The Barrie and Community Family Health Team, we have one full-time registered chiropodist and one administrative assistant who are ready to help you get back on your feet!

Services Overview

Chiropody services aim to provide access to foot care and education for patients at high risk of complication with no private insurance coverage.

Our goal is to reduce the occurrence of:

  • diabetic foot complications [such as ulcers, infections, amputations]
  • complications in seniors (over the age of 65) due to limitation in abilities
  • infections: bacterial [ingrown nails], fungal [skin/ nails] and viral [warts]
  • foot pains as they relate to biomechanical abnormalities

Services offered at our chiropody clinic include:

  • Diabetic and/or Geriatric Foot Assessment, Care and Education
  • General Foot Care: calluses, corns, warts
  • Management of Onychocryptosis/Ingrown Infections, Onychomycosis, Dystrophic Nails
  • Wound care management and referrals to CCAC or RVH for high risk ulcerations
  • Foot Pain Management: plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, Metatarsalgia, Morton’s Neuroma
  • Biomechanical Evaluation for suitability for orthotic management

All patient visits are covered by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.  After a visit with our health care providers, your health information is shared with your Family Physician and becomes part of your medical record.

Appointment Information

​This service is available to patients at high risk of foot complications who have no private insurance coverage:

  • Patients with diabetes
  • Frail, elderly patients (over the age of 65)
  • LINKS program patients

If you qualify for this service, you can be referred by your Family Health Team Doctor or Nurse Practitioner.

During your appointment, a Chiropodist will complete an in-depth patient assessment and discuss a treatment protocol based on your foot care needs. A support person is welcome to attend.