5 Common Myths About Foot Care, Debunked

When it comes to foot care, myths are common. Let’s separate fact from fiction and debunk some of the most common misconceptions about taking care of your feet. Our feet carry us through life, so they deserve a little extra care.

Below are five foot care myths to avoid if you want healthier feet, along with tips for reducing foot and ankle problems. For further help, you can seek personalized foot care treatment in the Shenandoah or Humble, Texas area from dual board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Jason Armstrong, DPM. 

Debunking 5 common foot care myths

Many common beliefs about foot care sound harmless, but can lead to poor outcomes. Understanding what’s true and what isn’t can help you protect your foot health.

Here are some common foot care myths, debunked.

1. Myth: If your feet don’t hurt, they’re healthy

Fact: While foot pain is a clear sign that something is wrong, many foot conditions can begin without any noticeable symptoms. Examples include circulation problems and early nerve damage. That’s why routine foot evaluations are vital, especially if you have diabetes, even if everything feels fine at the moment.

2. Myth: Foot pain is a normal part of aging

Fact: While it’s true that the risk of foot pain increases with aging, it’s not a normal part of getting older and you don’t have to just push through the discomfort. Dr. Armstrong can find the root cause of foot discomfort and offers treatments to keep you pain-free and back on your feet.

3. Myth: Going barefoot is always better for your feet

Fact: Walking barefoot may have some advantages, such as boosting muscle strength in your feet and improving some causes of knee pain, such as osteoarthritis. Walking barefoot might also support good mental health. Furthermore, many common foot concerns may worsen because of wearing shoes that fit poorly.

However, going barefoot may increase your risk of wounds, foot injuries, strain, and contracting athlete’s foot or toenail fungus from public areas like community showers or locker rooms. While there may be a time and place to go barefoot, it’s not always encouraged.

4. Myth: Cutting a “V” in an ingrown toenail helps it grow properly

Fact: The common myth of cutting a V into an ingrown toenail may actually worsen the problem. If you see signs of an ingrown nail or infection, avoid cutting the nail yourself. See Dr. Armstrong for a personalized plan offering fast, effective healing. 

5. Myth: Bunions eventually go away on their own

Fact: While not all bunions require medical intervention, they don’t go away on their own. About one-third of Americans have bunions, or bony deformities near the base of the big toe joint. Treatment can range from watchful waiting to footwear changes, pads, taping, orthotics, physical therapy, and surgery in severe cases. See Dr. Armstrong for a personalized plan. 

Reducing the risk of foot and ankle problems

Not all foot and ankle concerns can be avoided, but taking precautions may significantly reduce your risk. Examples include:

• Wearing comfortable shoes
• Wearing appropriate footwear when playing sports
• Warming up and cooling down properly 
• Checking your feet regularly, especially if you have diabetes
• Keeping your toenails trimmed straight across
• Not going barefoot in community areas like pool decks and locker rooms 
• Keeping your feet clean and dry
• Seeing a podiatrist at the first sign of a problem

Many of us neglect our feet, but taking good care of them can help us stay active, reduce the risk of pain and complications, and enhance our overall quality of living. 

Schedule routine foot evaluations with Jason Armstrong, DPM, by contacting us in Shenandoah or Humble, Texas, by phone or online today.