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. Read more about Five Foot Care Myths
The condition of flat feet or fallen arches often has a childhood origin. However, flat feet in children are more likely a pad of fat under the foot rather that real fallen arches. Read more about Fallen Arches
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that can make walking the smallest distances a nightmare. Kathleen Grealis could barely walk one city block without excruciating pain. “I was taking Motrin, Advil, any other kind of pain killer I could get my hands on.” Apprehensive to make a trip to the doctor, Kathleen suffered in agony for weeks. “It was progressively getting worse to the point that I said OK, I’ll put an ace bandage on my foot. But it just became too painful.” Read more about PLANTAR FASCIITIS
