5 of the Most Common Foot-Related Myths
Myths that are perpetuated regarding health care can be rather funny, like jumping up and down to cure hiccups. On the other hand, many myths about feet can be dangerous and harmful. Today Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC are dispelling 5 of the most common foot myths.
You can cure ingrown toenails by cutting a small “V” in the nail. Toenails grow from the nail base that is located just underneath the skin at the base of the nail. The notion that cutting a small “V” notch at the end of the nail will allow the edges of the nails to pull away from the skin as the nail develops at the “V” is not medically possible.
Warts can be stifled with a salve or duct tape. Even though warts are living viruses, they cannot be suffocated. While they can develop anywhere on the skin, only those on the sole of the foot are called plantar warts. Your podiatrist can supervise your use of a safe wart-removal preparation.
Heel spurs are calcium residue. A heel spur is often the result of stress on the fascia and muscles of the foot. This stress can cause a spur to develop on the bottom of the heel. And while most spurs are painless, some can create chronic pain. Depending on the chronic nature of the disease, heel surgery may provide relief from pain and restore mobility.
Fungal toenails are infectious. Fungal infection of the nail is often ignored because the infection can exist for years without causing any pain. But unlike the flu or the common cold, being around someone with this condition usually do not pose a risk of transmitting the infection.
If an ulcer doesn’t hurt, it can’t be too bad. In patients who live with diabetes, an ulcer on the bottom of the foot should not be ignored, regardless of whether or not it is painful. Diabetes can produce nerve damage in the feet and legs, which can result in the inability to experience pain. When there is reduced blood flow, small sores, or cuts on the feet that go unnoticed can lead to hard-to-heal wounds. It’s extremely important for patients who have diabetes to schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist.
If you are dealing with pain in your feet or think you may have one of these conditions, contact the offices of Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC to schedule an appointment. Call us today us at (301) 762-3338 or book your appointment online.
