Ruth Ann Cooper, D.P.M

Myth: Cutting a notch in an ingrown toenail relieves pain.

Fact: This does not relieve the pain and may actually cause more problems and discomfort. If you have an ingrown toenail, do not perform bathroom surgery-call my office to schedule an appointment. In many cases, a simple in office surgical procedure will fix the ingrown toenail.

Myth: The ability to walk on an injured foot means it isn’t broken.

Fact: Depending on the injury and your threshold for pain, it is possible to walk on a broken foot or ankle. This can make the injury worse and can also lead to serious complications. Stay off an injured foot until you can come to my office for an evaluation.

Myth: Shoes cause bunions.

Fact: Bunions are most often caused by an inherited faulty mechanical structure of the foot, which only surgery can correct. However, there may be treatment options to help your symptoms.

Myth: A doctor can’t fix a broken toe.

Fact: Untreated broken toes may develop arthritis or become deformed. Schedule an appointment with my office immediately if you believe your toe may be broken. Treatment options may include;

• Rest- Sometimes rest is all that is needed to heal a traumatic fracture of the toe.
  
• Splinting- The toe may be fitted with a splint to keep it in a fixed position.
  
• Rigid or stiff-soled shoe- Wearing a stiff-soled shoe protects the toe and helps keep it properly positioned.
  
• “Buddy taping”- the fractured toe to another toe is sometimes appropriate, but in other cases, it may be harmful.
  
• Surgery- If the break is badly displaced or if the joint is affected, surgery may be necessary.
  

Myth: Foot pain is normal as you get older.

Fact: Foot pain is not normal at any age. I, along with my excellent and caring staff, can provide relief for many painful conditions such as arthritis, bunions, hammertoes and much more. Visit FOOTHEALTHFACTS.org to learn more about these conditions and how to recognize their symptoms so you can get a head start on treatment.