7 Myths About Podiatry

The foot is a complex mechanism consisting of 26 bones, many joints, ligaments, and muscles. Its health is influenced by many factors, from wearing uncomfortable shoes to chronic diseases. However, podiatry, the science that studies, diagnoses, and treats foot diseases, is still surrounded by myths. Many people don't understand when it is time to visit a podiatrist and how this specialist can help. In this article, we have gathered seven common misconceptions about podiatry.

1. A podiatrist is simply a pedicure specialist

This is one of the most common misconceptions. Many people think that a podiatrist performs the same tasks as a beauty salon specialist - they do pedicures and take care of the skin of the feet. However, this is far from the truth.

A podiatry specialist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment and prevention of diseases of the feet and toenails. Their expertise includes problems such as ingrown toenails, fungal infections, cracked heels and toes, diabetic feet, and more. They use medical instruments and antiseptics to not only make the feet beautiful but also help their patients get rid of pain and discomfort.

2. You can remove the ingrown toenail yourself

Many people who have an ingrown toenail try to treat it at home by cutting off the edges of the nail plate. However, such a solution can only aggravate the problem. If the toenail continues to grow, its edges damage the skin, causing inflammation and pain. Incorrect nail cutting can lead to inflammation and other complications. A podiatrist will help solve the problem painlessly using professional techniques, such as installing special plates, brackets, or corrective systems. In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary.

3. Toenail fungus is just a cosmetic problem

Some people believe that toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is just an aesthetic problem that doesn't affect your health. However, the fungus can also affect the skin of the feet, causing itching, peeling, and cracking. In advanced cases, the infection penetrates deep into the nail plate and destroys it. Without treatment, the fungus can spread to other parts of the body and even infect others. A podiatrist will prescribe effective treatment, including drug therapy and care recommendations, which will help completely get rid of the infection.

4. Corns and calluses don't require special care

Corns and calluses are hardened areas of skin that develop as a result of constant pressure and friction. If they don't cause pain, many people think that they may be left untreated. However, this is not entirely true.

Over time, your corns and calluses can grow in size, causing discomfort when walking. They can also crack and become a gateway for infections. A podiatrist will help you choose the proper treatment and eliminate the cause of their occurrence so that the problem doesn't recur.

5. Only people with diabetes need to see  a podiatrist

In fact, diabetic foot is one of the serious diseases that a podiatrist treats. Diabetics have poor blood circulation in their feet, which can lead to impaired sensation, ulcers, and infections. However, foot care is not only necessary for diabetics.

People who suffer from ingrown toenails, fungal infections, dry skin, cracked feet, corns, or foot pain can also seek the care of a podiatrist. A specialist will help not only cure existing problems but also prevent their occurrence in the future.

6. Orthopedic doctors and podiatrists are the same thing

Some people think that a podiatrist and an orthopedic doctor perform the same tasks, but they are different specialists. An orthopedic doctor diagnoses and treats diseases of the musculoskeletal system, including the feet. It helps with flat feet, osteoarthritis, bunions, and other conditions of bones and joints. A podiatrist works also with the skin of the feet and toenails. Its main task is to eliminate problems associated with fungal infections, cracks, ingrown nails, and other dermatological issues.

7. Orthotics cure foot pain

Foot pain can be caused by several factors, including flat feet, plantar fasciitis, bunions, arthritis, or other diseases. Without an accurate diagnosis, it is impossible to choose the proper treatment. A podiatrist will help determine the cause of the pain and advise what measures to take to eliminate the discomfort.