Podiatry vs Chiropody in Ontario — What to know and why it matters — Canadian Foot Clinic & Orthotic Centre

Podiatry vs chiropody Ontario. Understand why training matters, common conditions treated, and why Michael Mesic’s combined credentials give you trusted local care.

Podiatry and chiropody both treat foot problems, but they differ in training, scope, and regulation. In Ontario, U.S.‑trained podiatrists must register as chiropodists because of the provincial podiatry cap; this makes it important to ask about a clinician’s education and training when choosing care.

• What each title means

  • Podiatrist (D.P.M.) — doctoral‑level medical training in the United States after a bachelor’s degree; extensive hospital rotations and residency training in foot and ankle medicine and surgery.

  • Chiropodist (Ontario) — diploma‑level professional training in Canada (Michener Institute pathway) with provincial regulation under the College of Chiropodists of Ontario.

• Why training matters

  • Depth of medical and surgical training: U.S. podiatric education includes four years of medical sciences plus hospital‑based residencies and optional surgical fellowships, producing clinicians trained to manage complex medical, biomechanical, and surgical foot conditions.

  • Ontario practice rules: U.S.‑trained podiatrists practising in Ontario register as chiropodists and practise under Ontario law;

• Conditions both clinicians treat

  • Conservative and medical care: ingrown nails, corns, calluses, warts, heel pain, neuromas, tendonitis, diabetic foot care, custom orthotics, and wound management.

  • Surgical care: more extensive surgical options are associated with podiatric surgical training and hospital residencies; referral pathways are available to orthopedic surgeons when surgery is indicated.

• Why choose Canadian Foot Clinic & Orthotic Centre in St. Catharines

  • One-stop foot clinic with a personal touch — we provide evidence‑based assessments, custom orthotics, footwear, compression stockings, foot care, and advanced treatment using Swift microwave therapy and liquid nitrogen for warts, shockwave therapy for soft tissue injuries and Lunula laser for fungal toenails.

  • Ask about credentials — we encourage patients to confirm education, training and hospital experience so you know who is managing your care.

• About Michael Mesic DPM Credentials — training you can trust

  • Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) from Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine.

  • Two‑year podiatric surgical residency at Greater Baltimore Medical Center (a Johns Hopkins teaching hospital), served as Chief Resident and successfully performed over 1,500 foot & ankle surgeries.

  • One‑year medical residency at The Cleveland Clinic with rotations across internal medicine, emergency medicine, orthopedics, vascular surgery, radiology, and more.

  • Registered Chiropodist in Ontario and licensed Podiatric Physician & Surgeon in the U.S.; combines trusted experience with local Ontario practice and patient continuity.

Book an in‑clinic assessment at the Canadian Foot Clinic & Orthotic Centre in St. Catharines to get a clear, evidence‑based plan tailored to your foot condition!