Frequently asked questions
To date, all podiatrists in Quebec can only practice in private practice. The fees of the podiatrist are not covered by the RAMQ. That is why there is a fee to consult a podiatrist. However, most private insurance plans reimburse a portion of the fees and expenses. These fees and expenses are also subject to a deduction in medical expenses for income tax purposes. Keep your receipts!
Both types of nurses have approximately 115-160 hours of training in podiatric care. They may work in a podiatry clinic under the supervision of a podiatrist.
A foot care nurse is a member of a professional association. She can develop and carry out a treatment plan.
A foot care nurse assistant is also a member of a professional order. She cannot develop a treatment plan. She may carry out the treatment plan developed by a podiatrist, physician or foot care nurse, under their supervision.
The foot care hygienist or pedicurist has training in aesthetics and beauty of the foot. The foot care hygienist and the pedicurist can neither diagnose nor treat foot ailments.
As for the "podologist", this title is only used in France and no training is recognized in Quebec.
Both types of nurses have approximately 115-160 hours of training in podiatric care. They may work in a podiatry clinic under the supervision of a podiatrist.
A foot care nurse is a member of a professional association. She can develop and carry out a treatment plan.
A foot care nurse assistant is also a member of a professional order. She cannot develop a treatment plan. She may carry out the treatment plan developed by a podiatrist, physician or foot care nurse, under their supervision.
The foot care hygienist or pedicurist has training in aesthetics and beauty of the foot. The foot care hygienist and the pedicurist can neither diagnose nor treat foot ailments.
As for the "podologist", this title is only used in France and no training is recognized in Quebec.
Yes, a podiatrist who is licensed in radiology can prescribe, perform and/or read imaging. In addition, if he/she has the equipment in the clinic, he/she can perform the x-ray or ultrasound. He/she is also subject to 12 hours of continuing education per year in order to maintain this right to practice and to maintain a high standard of competence.
The biomechanical examination of the feet, gait and posture performed by the podiatrist is done at the level of all the joints of the foot. First by a static analysis while sitting with the legs extended and then standing. It is completed by a dynamic analysis of the gait and posture, giving an appreciation of the movements of all the joints of the lower limb. This analysis allows podiatrists to evaluate and diagnose a biomechanical disorder that may promote or explain foot, ankle, knee, hip and/or lower back pain. Among the most frequent causes of biomechanical disorders are flat feet and bunion (Hallux Abducto Valgus-HAV).
A podiatrist can perform this examination as a preventive measure, in the presence of pain or following an injury. Following which he will make recommendations based on his observations and your needs. There is no age limit for a biomechanical examination. However, it is not recommended to perform it before the age of three, unless the child has pain or gait problems (falls more often than other children), or under the advice of another health professional.