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Five Foot Care Myths

The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons have heard all the myths about foot care. However, myths concerning health can have serious consequences if doctors aren't consulted to set the facts straight. Here are five podiatry myths that numerous patients have reported, and the truth behind them.

"Cutting a V notch into a toenail will relieve the pain of ingrown toenails." The reality of this myth is that cutting the nail does not affect the angle of the toenail growth. The nail will continue to grown downward into the skin and cutting a "V" may cause more problems and pain.

"If I can walk on my foot or ankle, it must not be broken." The truth is that it's very possible to walk on a broken foot or ankle but it depends on the severity of the injury and the individual threshold for pain. Continuing to walk on it can cause further damage.

"Bunions are caused by shoes." The source of most bunions is an inherited faulty structure of a person's foot. Certain types of feet are more prone to developing a bunion and although some treatments can alleviate the pain, only surgery can correct the deformity.

"Doctors can't fix a broken toe." Of the 26 bones in the foot, 19 are toe bones. If a broken toe is not treated correctly, wearing shoes and walking may prove difficult. Doctors can x-ray the toe to learn about the fracture and, if the toe is out of alignment, a pin, screw, or plate can be inserted to reposition the bone.

"Corns have roots." Corns are small build-ups of skin caused by friction. The cause of the condition is usually a hammertoe deformity, where the knuckle rubs against the shoe. Corns have a central core of hard material but they do not have roots. Attempting to cut off a corn or applying medicated corn pads can lead to serious infection.

For more information, visit FootPhysicians.com.or to receive treatment.

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