Myth vs. Fact: 3 Common Foot Pain Misconceptions Debunked

Foot pain is a common complaint at the Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Institute, but many patients still have misconceptions about causes and treatment.

In the blog below, Dr. Daniel Michaels takes the time to thoroughly debunk three common myths about foot pain and what to do about it. We hope his words of wisdom help you avoid the complications that accompany dubious DIY advice, unsourced internet searches, and other iffy suggestions!

Myth 1: Cushioning Is Key for Plantar Fasciitis

Fact: Not really. According to Dr. Daniel Michaels:

  • “Many will seek out the softest soled shoe possible, or an arch support with the most cushioning material available will be used…but cushioning isn’t the answer.”
  • “Reducing inflammation in this ligament will reduce the pain and can be achieved in numerous ways. The traditional approach is to inject a steroid medication (e.g. cortisone) into the area.
  • Unfortunately, this doesn’t address the excess tension on the symptomatic structure…the pain commonly returns.”
  • “A more effective alternative is shockwave therapy, a regenerative technique leading to healing. After hundreds of studies on shockwave examining its effectiveness and success rate, we can definitively say shockwave is beneficial for plantar fasciitis and carries no risk of complications.
  •  Additionally, and importantly, this therapy improves the health of these tissues.”

Myth 2: Children’s Foot Aches Are Just “Normal Growing Pains”

Fact: Growing pains aren’t even a thing. Dr. Michaels elaborates: 

  • “Pain in a child’s foot or ankle is never “normal,” and there’s no such thing as “growing pains.”
  • Your child’s pain could be caused by common pediatric conditions such as flatfeet, ingrown toenails, plantar warts, or sports injuries.”
  • “When a child experiences pain that lasts more than a few days or is severe, they should be examined by a foot and ankle surgeon.”

Myth 3: If Foot Pain Goes Away, You Don’t Need an Exam

Fact: A lot of folks suffer from problems they could have avoided due to this prevalent form of wishful thinking. Dr. Michaels explains:

  • “Once you develop pain, especially chronic pain, or pain after an injury, you definitely should have that pain examined. Also, have your foot shape and your foot type examined to figure out what improvements can be made.”
  • “Some foot issues require surgery, but others can be fixed with good shoes; there are exercises, stretches, pads, and products where you can stick your toes in and maybe straighten them out a little bit.”
  • “Also, there are orthotics – the doctor says having a special molded insert for your foot can turn a bad pair of shoes into good ones.”

That’s it for now! If the problems above sound familiar or you just want help selecting a new pair of shoes, be sure to give us a call.

Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute offers comprehensive podiatric services! Call us at 301-797-8554 or contact us to schedule an appointment. Located in Hagerstown & Frederick, MD, we’re ready to meet any of your foot health needs.

Don’t forget Dr. Michaels’s motto: “If it’s below the knee, think of me!”