There are myths about foot care that you may have heard and may believe. Since your feet and ankles play an important role in everyday life, from standing to walking and balancing, it’s necessary to understand how to give them proper care. In this article, our experts are debunking common foot care myths and revealing the truths behind them.
Myth #1. Foot Pain Is a Normal Part of Getting Older
Foot pain isn’t normal at any age. Sure, bodies change as they age, but pain shouldn’t just be accepted. That can be a slippery slope to additional problems. When you know the cause, you can treat it and prevent this pain from reoccurring.
Myth #2. If You Can Walk, Your Foot Isn’t Broken
Injured athletes are often encouraged to play through the pain. Yet, the ability to put weight on one’s foot doesn’t mean it’s not broken, and walking on it could lead to more damage. It’s best to stay off the injured foot until you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Myth #3. Duct Tape Is Great for Removing Warts
Some people believe duct tape suffocates the wart by depriving the skin cells of oxygen. However, studies have mixed results.
Duct tape is particularly ineffective in treating plantar warts. These warts, also known as verruca plantaris, are caused by direct contact with the human papillomavirus (HPV). They also grow deep into the skin.
Myth #4. Cut A ‘V’ In The Center Of The Nail To Cure An Ingrown Toenail
When a toenail is ingrown, its corner or side grows downward and into the skin. Cutting a “V” shape won’t help, as new nail growth happens at the base of the nail, under the cuticle.
It’s not recommended to cut or pick at your ingrown toenail at home. Instead, consult a podiatrist. Depending on the state of infection, surgery may be required. A procedure known as partial nail avulsion works to remove ingrown toenails.
Myth #5. There’s No Treatment for a Broken Toe
Doctors can, in fact, treat a broken toe. A podiatrist will use digital radiography, a modern type of x-ray, to see if any bones have been fractured or damaged by means of arthritis, infection, or another condition. Surgery may be the answer, and if so, treatment may include inserting a pin, plate, or screw to reposition the bone.
Receive Treatment at The Foot & Ankle Center!
If you’re experiencing foot pain, warts, ingrown toenails, broken toes, or have other podiatric concerns, visit the knowledgeable podiatrists at The Foot & Ankle Center!
Come in for a same-day appointment to put your mind at ease and have a treatment plan customized for you. Our treatments are safe and effective and provide fast relief. To get started, give us a call at 314-487-9300 or request an appointment online!