PODIATRIE | Clinique Omicron Québec

Plantar fasciitis is treated in podiatry with a combination of custom orthotics to correct biomechanics and reduce tension on the fascia, podiatric strapping, targeted stretching (of the fascia and Achilles tendon), and shockwave therapy for chronic cases. Advice on appropriate footwear is also part of the treatment. Most patients experience significant improvement within 6 to 12 weeks with appropriate podiatric management.

The treatment of an ingrown toenail depends on its severity. For mild cases, the podiatrist performs conservative care: trimming the ingrown edge and applying a corrective splint. For recurrent or infected cases, partial nail removal (ablation of a portion of the nail matrix under local anesthesia) allows for permanent healing in over 95 % of cases. The procedure is quick, ambulatory, and well-tolerated. Post-operative care is simple, and a return to normal activities is rapid.

The diabetic foot refers to all podiatric complications related to diabetes: peripheral neuropathy (loss of sensation), vascular insufficiency, deformities, chronic wounds and ulcers. Diabetic individuals should be seen annually (or more frequently depending on their risk level) by a podiatrist. This follow-up includes vascular and neurological assessment, care for thickened or deformed nails, wound prevention, prescription of orthotics and appropriate footwear, and coordination with endocrinology and internal medicine.

Yes. Plantar warts (caused by the human papillomavirus, HPV) are treated in podiatry using several methods depending on their size, number, and depth: application of high-concentration salicylic acid, liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, CO₂ laser, or surgical excision under local anesthesia. The podiatrist will choose the method best suited to your case to ensure complete removal and prevent recurrence. Prior debridement is often necessary to assess the extent of the wart.

Morton's neuroma is a fibrosis (thickening) of the digital nerve located between the metatarsal heads, most commonly between the 3rd and 4th toes. It causes burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the forefoot, which is aggravated by wearing tight or high-heeled shoes. Podiatric management includes shoe modifications, custom orthotics to offload the area, and, if these fail, corticosteroid injections or surgical referral.

A podiatrist is a medical specialist of the foot who diagnoses and treats podiatric conditions: pain, injuries, infections, minor surgery, and plantar orthotics. They can make medical diagnoses and perform surgical procedures. An orthotist-prosthetist specializes in the fabrication and fitting of orthopedic devices (plantar orthotics, joint braces, prosthetics) for the entire body. For plantar orthotics, both professionals can assist you — a podiatrist is preferable if you also have a foot condition to diagnose or treat.

Corns (focal hyperkeratosis with a central nucleus) and calluses (diffuse thickening of the skin) are caused by repeated friction or pressure on the foot. The podiatrist performs painless debridement (mechanical reduction) using sterile instruments, which provides immediate relief. To prevent recurrence, custom orthotics, podiatric protective devices, or advice on appropriate footwear are offered depending on the identified biomechanical cause.

Yes. Hallux valgus (outward deviation of the big toe with a painful bony prominence) is managed conservatively in podiatry: plantar orthotics to reduce biomechanical stress, toe protectors and separators, shoe adaptation, and strapping. These treatments relieve pain and slow progression, but do not correct the structural deformity. If conservative treatment fails or there is significant progression, surgical intervention is considered.

Podiatry consultations are generally not covered by the RAMQ for the general population. However, many private group insurance plans partially or fully reimburse podiatric care. Custom orthotics are often covered under the paramedical care category, with a medical prescription depending on the insurer. The CNESST and SAAQ may cover care related to an accident. Check your coverage with your insurer before your consultation. Consult our Pricing section for more information.

No. No medical prescription is required to consult a podiatrist at Clinique Omicron. You can book your appointment directly. However, some private insurers may require a medical prescription for reimbursement of custom orthotics or certain podiatric treatments. If you are diabetic, please bring your recent lab results (HbA1c, kidney function tests) to facilitate the vascular and neurological assessment during your first consultation.

You can make an appointment through our online portal, by phone at 514 606-3350, or by email at info@cliniqueomicron.ca. No medical referral is required. Bring your usual shoes (athletic and everyday wear) as well as, if available, your current orthotics and all relevant medical documents (imaging, diabetes assessment). For an ingrown toenail or wart treatment, avoid applying over-the-counter products in the days preceding your consultation to facilitate evaluation.