Many people live with foot pain longer than they should because of widespread myths—like thinking it's normal with age or assuming all remedies work the same for everyone. We understand how easy it is to believe these myths, but they can prevent proper treatment, delay recovery, and even worsen your condition over time.
At South Texas Podiatry in San Antonio, Texas,board-certified podiatrists Dr. Ed Davis, Dr. Silas Espino, and Dr. Bryan Sagray are dedicated to providing accurate diagnoses and effective, minimally invasive treatments to deliver lasting foot pain relief. If you're experiencing persistent discomfort or are concerned about your foot health, schedule an appointment today to get the expert guidance you need.
Below, we'll debunk some common myths about foot pain that could negatively impact your foot health, explaining the facts behind each misconception.
Myth #1: Foot Pain Is Normal with Age
Reality: While foot problems might become more common as we age, chronic pain is never something you should accept as normal. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and flat feet can affect people of all ages, and proper foot care can significantly improve your quality of life, no matter your age.
Myth #2: Over-the-Counter Remedies Work for Everyone
Reality: Over-the-counter products like shoe inserts, foot pads, or pain relief gels may provide temporary comfort, but they don't address the root causes of foot pain. For example, plantar fasciitis treatment requires professional diagnosis and targeted care to effectively manage pain and inflammation, ensuring healthy feet long-term.
Myth #3: High Pain Tolerance Means You Don’t Need a Podiatrist
Reality: Having a high pain tolerance might lead you to ignore common foot pain symptoms, but this can make underlying conditions worse. Even minor foot injuries like a broken toe or chronic arch pain need proper evaluation. Untreated broken toes or persistent injuries can lead to more serious issues, including deformities and chronic pain.
Myth #4: Flat Feet Don’t Require Treatment
Reality: Many people assume flat feet are harmless, but they can cause significant discomfort and complications over time, including heel pain and ankle instability. Without proper foot care, untreated flat feet can contribute to worsening pain, arthritis, and mobility issues. Seeking a podiatrist for foot pain related to flat feet ensures you receive appropriate supportive treatments like custom orthotics or physical therapy.
Myth #5: Ill-Fitting Shoes Only Cause Temporary Discomfort
Reality: Regularly wearing ill-fitting shoes does more than cause temporary discomfort. Shoes that pinch, lack support, or put pressure on your toes can lead to long-term problems such as bunions, toe deformities, plantar fasciitis, and chronic pain. Choosing supportive footwear that fits correctly is a key step toward better foot health.
Myth #6: A Broken Toe Will Heal Properly on Its Own
Reality: While some mild toe injuries can heal without intervention, untreated broken toes can heal improperly, leading to permanent deformities, chronic pain, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can properly evaluate an injured foot, provide immobilisation if necessary, and ensure that bones heal correctly.
Myth #7: Plantar Fasciitis Will Simply Go Away if You Rest
Reality: Resting your feet can alleviate immediate discomfort, but plantar fasciitis often requires targeted treatment to fully resolve. Effective plantar fasciitis treatment may include custom shoe inserts, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), or guided physical therapy—services expertly provided by our foot specialists, Dr. Davis, Dr. Espino, and Dr. Sagray, at South Texas Podiatry.
Myth #8: Foot Pain Is Just a Part of an Active Lifestyle
Reality: Staying active is excellent for your overall health, but consistent foot pain isn't something you have to endure. Persistent heel pain, arch pain, or pain in the Achilles tendon isn't normal and could indicate an underlying condition needing professional assessment and treatment. Ensuring proper foot care through preventive measures can help maintain healthy feet and an active lifestyle without pain.
Importance of Professional Foot Care
Believing these common myths about foot pain can delay timely care, turning manageable issues into chronic problems. Early professional intervention is crucial for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and long-term foot health.
At South Texas Podiatry, Dr. Davis, Dr. Espino, and Dr. Sagray utilise minimally invasive and non-invasive treatments to relieve pain and restore function efficiently.
Our advanced services include:
- Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) for chronic plantar fasciitis and heel pain.
- Custom Orthotics (Foot Orthoses) for flat feet, arch pain, and improved overall foot alignment.
- Advanced therapies for bunions, hallux rigidus, and neuromas.
- Diagnostic imaging, including ultrasound and digital X-ray, is available on-site for quick, precise diagnosis.
- Innovative treatments like Swift Microwave Therapy and laser treatments for nail fungus.
Get Real Answers About Foot Pain at South Texas Podiatry
Believing foot pain myths can delay the care you need, turning minor issues into long-term problems. South Texas Podiatry can help you get back to better foot health with trusted diagnosis and treatment.
Book your appointment with Dr. Davis, Dr. Espino, and Dr. Sagray today and explore custom care for lasting foot pain relief. We’re here to help you move comfortably every step of the way.
