Podiatrists Debunk 11 Feet Myths | Debunked | Science Insider

Insider Science
1 Aug 202112:12
EducationalLearning
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TLDRIn this enlightening video, Dr. Sarah Haller and Dr. Brad Schaeffer debunk common foot care myths, revealing that warts are viral, not a result of dirty feet, and that pedicures are safe if done in sterile environments. They clarify that cutting toenails straight, not curved, prevents ingrown nails, and address misconceptions about bunions, athlete's foot, and the necessity of professional care for injuries. The doctors emphasize the importance of proper footwear, custom inserts, and seeking medical attention for foot issues.

Takeaways
  • 🚫 Cutting the sides of your toenail does not prevent ingrown toenails; it should be cut straight across to avoid them.
  • 🦶 Warts are caused by a virus, not dirty feet, and can be contracted from various surfaces, not just from being unclean.
  • 👠 High heels like stilettos do not cause bunions, but they can exacerbate them; bunions are a hereditary bone deformity.
  • 🏥 If you suspect a broken toe, it's essential to seek medical attention to prevent further complications.
  • 👟 Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that can affect anyone, not just athletes, and is often due to warm, moist environments.
  • 👣 Toenail fungus can be contracted anywhere, not just from pedicures, but it's important to take precautions like using a sterile environment.
  • 👡 Custom inserts or orthotics are necessary for some individuals to provide proper foot support, and over-the-counter options may not suffice.
  • 🌟 Sprained ankles should be stabilized and treated to prevent long-term damage or the development of arthritis.
  • 👀 It's a myth that if you can walk after an injury, you don't need to see a doctor; internal injuries can still occur even if mobility isn't impaired.
  • 👣 Feet should not hurt from standing all day; supportive shoes, compression socks, and inserts can help alleviate fatigue.
  • 👨‍⚕️ It's crucial to get foot injuries checked out promptly, as some can worsen over time or lead to more serious conditions if untreated.
Q & A

  • What is the common misconception about warts and their actual cause?

    -The misconception is that warts are caused by dirty feet. In reality, warts are caused by a virus that can be contracted from various surfaces, not just due to cleanliness.

  • Can wearing stilettos cause bunions?

    -No, wearing stilettos does not cause bunions. Bunions are a hereditary deformity where the bone behind the big toe shifts position. Stilettos may exacerbate the condition but are not the cause.

  • What is the proper way to cut toenails to prevent ingrown toenails?

    -To prevent ingrown toenails, one should cut the toenails straight across rather than rounding them, as the nail grows from a square matrix and rounding the cut does not change its natural growth pattern.

  • Can pedicures be a source of toenail fungus?

    -Pedicures can potentially contribute to toenail fungus if the environment is not sterile and instruments are not properly cleaned. However, the fungus can be found in various warm and moist environments.

  • What are some precautions one can take when getting a pedicure to minimize the risk of toenail fungus?

    -To minimize the risk, one can bring their own nail polish and ensure that the salon uses sanitary bags for bathtub soaks and changes them between each client.

  • How can you protect yourself from getting warts in public places?

    -To protect against warts, it's recommended to wear shower shoes in public places, wipe down yoga mats or gym equipment, and avoid sharing personal items.

  • What is the truth about athlete's foot and who is prone to getting it?

    -Athlete's foot is a fungal infection, tinea pedis, which can affect anyone, not just athletes. It thrives in warm, moist environments like socks and shoes, so it's essential to change sweaty socks and shoes regularly.

  • What is the actual cause of a bunion and how is it related to wearing heels?

    -A bunion is a bone deformity caused by genetic factors, not by wearing heels. However, wearing heels, especially those that apply pressure to the bunion, can worsen the condition.

  • Can training your feet to walk in stilettos be considered healthy in the long term?

    -While one can adapt to wearing stilettos, it is not considered healthy in the long term due to the strain it puts on the Achilles and the front of the foot, leading to potential issues.

  • What should one do if they suspect they have a broken toe?

    -If a broken toe is suspected, it's important to seek medical attention. A doctor may use buddy taping to support the injured toe and ensure proper healing.

  • Is it normal for feet to hurt after standing all day, and what can be done to alleviate this?

    -It is not normal for feet to hurt after standing all day. Wearing supportive shoes, using compression socks, and inserts can help prevent foot fatigue and discomfort.

  • Why are all inserts not the same and what factors determine the need for a custom insert?

    -All inserts are not the same because each person's foot is unique. Factors such as specific foot conditions like arthritis, flat feet, or individual arch support needs may require custom orthotics.

  • How serious are sprained ankles and what should be done immediately after an injury?

    -Sprained ankles are serious as they can lead to ligament damage and potential cartilage issues. Immediate stabilization and medical attention are crucial for proper healing and prevention of future complications.

  • Why is it a myth that if you can walk after an injury, you don't need to see a doctor?

    -This is a myth because some injuries, like fractures or severe sprains, may not prevent mobility but can still require medical attention to prevent further complications or misdiagnosis.

Outlines
00:00
👠 Debunking Foot Myths with Expert Insights

This paragraph introduces two podiatric experts, Dr. Sarah Haller and Dr. Brad Schaeffer, who aim to debunk common myths about foot health. They address misconceptions such as the causes of bunions, warts, and ingrown toenails, the relationship between pedicures and toenail fungus, and the proper way to cut toenails to prevent ingrown issues. The experts emphasize the importance of foot care and hygiene, and the role of genetics in conditions like bunions, while also discussing the potential risks associated with wearing high heels and the prevention of foot problems.

05:01
👡 The Truth About Bunions, Stilettos, and Foot Health

In this section, the focus shifts to the clarification of myths surrounding bunions, their causes, and the impact of wearing stilettos. The paragraph explains that bunions are not caused by high heels but are a genetic deformity where the bone behind the big toe shifts. While stilettos can exacerbate bunions, they are not the root cause. The experts also discuss the importance of proper footwear and the use of custom inserts or orthotics for various foot conditions. Additionally, they touch on the treatment of broken toes and the common misconception that foot pain after standing all day is normal.

10:02
🏃‍♂️ Ankle Sprains, Toe Injuries, and the Importance of Immediate Care

The final paragraph delves into the misconceptions about ankle sprains and toe injuries, emphasizing the importance of immediate and proper care. The experts describe the potential damage that can occur from sprained ankles, including ligament damage and cartilage issues, which can lead to early-onset arthritis if not addressed. They also refute the belief that one does not need to see a doctor if they can walk after an injury, sharing a patient's story of an undiagnosed broken ankle. The paragraph concludes with the experts' recommendations on foot care, including regular shoe changes, proper toenail trimming, and seeking prompt medical attention for injuries.

Mindmap
Keywords
💡Warts
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), not by dirty feet as the myth suggests. They are a common skin condition that can appear on various parts of the body, including the feet. In the video, Dr. Sarah Haller clarifies that warts are a viral infection that can be contracted from surfaces like yoga mats or gym equipment, emphasizing the importance of hygiene and caution in public places.
💡Bunions
A bunion is a bone deformity, where the joint at the base of the big toe pushes outward, often forming a bump. Contrary to the myth that high heels cause bunions, Dr. Brad Schaeffer explains that they are often hereditary and result from the shifting of the bone behind the big toe. While high heels may exacerbate the condition, they are not the root cause. The script also mentions that bunions cannot be eliminated without surgery.
💡Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails, causing them to become discolored and thickened. The video dispels the myth that pedicures always cause toenail fungus, stating that it can be contracted from any warm, moist environment. Dr. Haller advises taking precautions such as bringing personal nail polish to pedicure salons and ensuring the salon maintains a sterile environment.
💡Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and potential infection. The video script refutes the myth that cutting the sides of the toenail can prevent this condition. Instead, it advises cutting the nails straight across to avoid the nail growing into the skin and causing an ingrown toenail.
💡Pedicures
Pedicures are a form of foot care that involves cleaning, soaking, and grooming the toenails. The video discusses the misconception that pedicures are always a source of toenail fungus. Dr. Haller explains that while there is a risk, it can be mitigated by ensuring the salon uses sanitary practices and clean instruments.
💡Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. The video clarifies that it is not exclusive to athletes but can affect anyone who has warm, moist conditions in their footwear. The condition is likened to a 'petri dish' for fungus, emphasizing the importance of foot hygiene and dryness.
💡Stilettos
Stilettos are high-heeled shoes that can be fashionable but are also discussed in the video as potentially harmful to foot health. While they are not the cause of bunions, they can exacerbate the condition. The video suggests that lower heels or shoes that allow the bunion to protrude may be more comfortable for those with bunions.
💡Toenail Cutting
The video emphasizes the correct way to cut toenails to prevent ingrown toenails. It explains that cutting the nails straight across, rather than rounding them, is the proper technique. This prevents the nail from growing into the skin and causing painful and potentially infected ingrown toenails.
💡Foot Pain
The video dispels the myth that foot pain is normal after standing all day. It suggests that supportive shoes, compression socks, and inserts can help prevent foot fatigue. The script highlights the importance of proper footwear and foot support for those who stand or walk for extended periods.
💡Orthotics
Orthotics are custom-made inserts for shoes that provide additional arch support and help correct foot imbalances. The video script refutes the myth that all inserts are the same, explaining that different feet require different types of support. Orthotics can be beneficial for various conditions, including arthritis and flat feet.
💡Sprained Ankles
A sprained ankle is an injury to the ligaments on the outside of the ankle, often caused by a roll or twist. The video emphasizes the importance of stabilizing a sprained ankle to ensure proper healing and prevent future instability or arthritis. It dispels the myth that sprained ankles are not serious and should not be seen by a doctor.
Highlights

Warts are caused by a virus, not dirty feet, and can be contracted from various surfaces.

Pedicures can be safe if done in a sterile environment, but caution is advised to prevent toenail fungus.

Cutting toenails straight across, rather than round, helps prevent ingrown toenails.

The nail matrix grows nails in a square shape, contrary to the common belief of round growth.

Toe nail fungus can originate from various warm and moist environments, not just pedicures.

Bunions are a hereditary deformity, not caused by wearing high heels, although they can be exacerbated by them.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that can affect anyone, not just athletes, due to warm and moist conditions.

Proper foot care includes changing socks and shoes regularly to prevent fungal and bacterial growth.

Stiletto wearers can train their feet to some extent, but it's not healthy in the long term and can cause issues.

Broken toes require medical attention and should not be ignored, even if one can still walk.

Feet should not hurt from standing all day; supportive shoes and inserts can help prevent fatigue.

Not all inserts are the same; custom orthotics may be needed for specific foot conditions.

Sprained ankles need proper care and stabilization to prevent long-term damage and arthritis.

Walking after an injury does not mean it's not serious; prompt medical attention is crucial.

YogaToes and toe spacers provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying foot issues.

Dr. Sarah Haller and Dr. Brad Schaeffer debunk various foot care myths, emphasizing proper foot health practices.

Transcripts

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Foot CareMyths DebunkedPodiatry AdviceToenail CareWart PreventionAthlete's FootBunion FactsStiletto ImpactToe InjuriesAnkle Sprains