Pedorthist is the title of a health care professional who specializes in the use of footwear and supportive devices to address conditions which affect the feet and lower limbs. They are trained in the assessment of lower limb anatomy and biomechanics, and the appropriate use of corrective footware - including shoes, shoe modifications, foot orthoses and other pedorthic devises. “Certified Pedorthist” is a title used by both the College of Pedorthics of Canada[1] as well as the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC)[2]. However in many jurisdictions the practice of pedorthists is self-regulated; professional certification is voluntary.
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The Pedorthic Association of Canada[3] as well as the College of Pedorthics of Canada[4] describe a Pedorthist as such:
A pedorthist is an individual who is trained in the manufacturing, fitting and modification of foot appliances and footwear to assist in:
A Certified Pedorthist, or C.Ped (C), is a practitioner who provides:
Canadian pedorthists consult with patients based on a referral from a prescribing healthcare professional such as a family physician, and are integrated members of health care teams, focused on helping patients achieve and maintain proper foot care and health.
To be eligible for the C.Ped (C) examination, pedorthists trained in Canada achieve their designation through one of two ways. The first requires a diploma in Pedorthics from the University of Western Ontario (UWO)[5] and a membership in good standing with the Pedorthic Association of Canada[6].
The second option requires a university degree in any health science, science, or engineering program. A candidate may hold a university degree with a supplementary diploma in chiropody/podiatry, chiropractic or orthotist. The core competencies required from a recognized university or college include: anatomy, biomechanics/gait analysis, medical conditions/disease, physical assessment and ethics.
Candidates without a UWO Diploma in Pedorthics must also achieve 3500 hours of practical experience in a pedorthic-related field including 1500 hours of on-site supervised work experience under a qualified C.Ped (C).
An additional certification available through The College of Pedorthics of Canada is the Certified Master Craftsman (C. Ped MC). This is the highest level of certification available. These individuals must hold a C. Ped (C) designation with a minimum number of years of experience as well as complete a hands-on examination. They are certified by The College of Pedorthics of Canada to manufacture custom orthopaedic footwear.
In the United States, becoming a C.Ped. requires completing the educational requirements approved by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC) and passing a written credentialing exam.[7]
To meet the eligibility requirements, individuals must meet the specific education and experience requirements established by ABC:[8]
In addition to Pedorthists, the ABC credentials individuals in the following professions:
Licensure to practice as a Pedorthist is required in Ohio state.[9]
License is required in Oklahoma, Florida, Ohio. The requirement is pending in several other states.