FAQ

As a holder of a Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine that involves four years’ university study, a podiatrist is a specialist in treating all conditions that affect the feet without having a systemic effect on the wider body.  Depending on the treatment that the podiatrist considers to be most effective, this healthcare professional specializing in the care and treatment of the feet may prescribe pharmaceutical remedies, or medical or surgical intervention and even mechanical solutions in the case of custom made orthotic supports.

Podiatrists are healthcare professionals who hold doctorates in podiatric medicine after graduation from university.  To practice, they must obtain a practicing license that is issued by the Quebec Order of Podiatrists.  As specialist physicians, they can diagnose and treat all conditions affecting the feet, with clinical specialties that include the manufacture of orthotic supports.A prosthetist and/or orthotist studies at a technical college and, after graduation, practices as the technician who is responsible for manufacturing the orthotic supports that are prescribed by a healthcare specialist such as an MD or a podiatrist.  Orthotists may practice their profession without being a member of either the Canadian Association for Prosthetics and Orthotics or L’Ordre des technologues professionnels du Québec (OTPQ).

Many conditions affecting the feet can appear from a very early age, and that is why it is important to seek the opinion of a podiatrist if you have even the slightest concern about the development of your small child’s feet or the way in which they walk.  We recommend that you seek a consultation as early as possible as age is not a limiting factor.  Many options may be considered on a case-by-case basis.  The specialist will provide a specific diagnosis and recommend treatment that takes the child’s age into account.

At our clinic, the wellbeing of children and the health of their feet receive special attention.  We place particular emphasis on closely monitoring children’s development as they grow, and therefore arrange regular consultations to achieve this.

The costs of podiatric treatment are not covered by RAMQ.  On the other hand, just like dental care, most private insurance companies will reimburse podiatric treatment costs.  We can work with your insurer to confirm whether you are entitled to a refund of costs incurred.

Diabetes increases the risks of developing severe complications in the feet.  That is why it is highly recommended that patients who suffer from diabetes should consult with a podiatrist and monitor the health of their feet regularly.   The feet of diabetics require particular care and treatment, and our Clinic has therefore obtained the necessary diagnostic tools and professional qualifications for its staff in order to provide appropriate service.