Don’t Fall for These Common Foot Myths

At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we sometimes discover our patients are operating under erroneous beliefs regarding podiatric problems. It can lead to choices that will not help and may even harm your feet. Below are some frequently subscribed to myths and why they are not true!

Myth: Fungal Infection Risk is Higher in the Summer

Truth: Many people associate getting athlete’s foot or toenail fungus with walking barefoot around the community pool or beach changing area. While it is true that fungal infections spread by direct contact, that contact can also occur at a nail salon, gym locker room, or shower. During the winter months, when feet are more likely to be in socks and closed shoes, there is a greater chance of feet sitting in a dark, moist environment—the setting where these types of infections most often thrive.

Myth: Your Foot Size Doesn’t Change

Truth: Your foot size is likely to increase as you age. It is partly due to specific ligaments and tendons losing their elasticity and the fatty padding on the bottom of your feet diminishing. Your foot is even more likely to be larger if you’ve put on some extra pounds, which increases the pressure on your feet, causing them to spread.

Myth: Cutting a Notch in Your Toenail Prevents Ingrowing

Truth: Cutting into your toenail or any other part of your foot will likely cause an injury and/or an infection—but it won’t prevent an ingrown toenail from recurring. The nail will still grow down and into the skin. Ditto for sticking a piece of cotton between the nail and the skin. Before trying any “folk remedies,” it’s best to check with our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales. The foot doctor is the best person to decide the appropriate treatment for any podiatric issues you may be experiencing.

Myth: Cause of Bunions is Bad Shoes

Truth: Bunions are the result of a biomechanical imbalance in your foot. Wearing shoes with tight, narrow toe boxes or high heels that put excessive strain on your toes, however, can make bunions worse.

Myth: My Foot Isn’t Broken Cause I Can Still Walk on It

Truth: Being able to bear weight on an injured foot or ankle does not mean that it isn’t fractured or sprained. However, what is certain is that walking on a broken foot or ankle will make the injury worse. It’s best to make an appointment at our Hudson office by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799 to have your injury evaluated.