Common Podiatry Myths Debunked | Foot & Ankle Centers

Many people delay visiting a podiatrist because of misconceptions about what podiatry involves. Misunderstanding the scope of care or believing false assumptions can lead to untreated foot problems, worsening pain, and preventable complications. Knowing the truth behind common myths empowers you to take better care of your feet and seek timely treatment.

Here’s a closer look at common podiatry myths—and the reality behind them

Common Podiatry Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction

Myth 1: You Need a Referral to See a Podiatrist

One of the most common misconceptions is that a referral from a primary care doctor is required to see a podiatrist. This simply isn’t true. At Foot & Ankle Centers in Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney, Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven welcome patients directly. Scheduling an appointment is simple, and you don’t need any prior authorization to get started.

Visiting a podiatrist proactively can help prevent small foot issues from becoming larger problems. Early evaluation is particularly important for people with diabetes, arthritis, or other conditions that affect circulation or nerve health in the feet.

Myth 2: Podiatrists Only Cut Toenails

Another misconception is that podiatrists only trim nails. While nail care is part of routine visits, the scope of podiatric medicine is much broader. Our team at Foot & Ankle Centers provide treatment for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Heel pain and plantar fasciitis
• Sports-related injuries such as sprains or stress fractures
• Bunions, hammertoes, and other structural issues
• Diabetic foot care, including wound management and neuropathy monitoring
• Foot and ankle pain caused by arthritis, tendonitis, or poor biomechanics

This means a single visit to a podiatrist can address multiple concerns at once, helping you maintain overall foot health, prevent complications, and improve mobility.

Myth 3: You Only Need a Podiatrist When You’re in Pain

Waiting until pain appears is another common mistake. By the time discomfort is noticeable, the condition may already have progressed. Routine podiatry visits allow doctors to detect early signs of problems, even before you feel pain.

At Foot & Ankle Centers we understand the importance of preventive care, including evaluations of gait, foot structure, and skin and nail health. Our expert podiatrists can provide recommendations for supportive footwear, daily foot care routines, and exercises to strengthen the foot and prevent future issues. Early intervention is particularly valuable for patients at higher risk of complications, such as those with diabetes, obesity, or an active lifestyle.

How Daily Foot Care Supports Your Health

• Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, swelling, or redness – Early detection of foot problems allows our podiatrists to intervene before minor issues turn into serious conditions.

• Wash and thoroughly dry your feet, especially between toes – Proper hygiene helps prevent infections, athlete’s foot, and other common foot conditions.

• Wear well-fitted shoes with arch and heel support – Supportive footwear protects your feet, maintains alignment, and reduces strain on arches and heels.

• Perform podiatrist-recommended stretches and strengthening exercises – Targeted routines improve flexibility, relieve tension, and promote long-term foot and ankle health.

• Moisturize dry skin while avoiding excess moisture between toes – Maintaining balanced hydration prevents cracked skin and fungal infections for healthier feet.

At Foot & Ankle Centers Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven provide guidance on these daily practices, ensuring that your routine supports professional treatment. By combining expert care with consistent at-home habits, you can reduce discomfort, prevent complications, and keep your feet healthy for the long term.

When to Schedule a Visit

If you notice persistent heel pain, swelling, numbness, or difficulty walking, it’s time to book an appointment. Don’t wait until pain worsens or small issues become serious. Early evaluation by a podiatrist can prevent complications, protect your feet, and help maintain an active lifestyle.

At Foot & Ankle Centers in Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney, we provide same-day appointments for urgent foot and ankle issues, including sprains, fractures, wounds, and joint injuries. Call (972) 712-7773 to schedule your visit.

Take the First Step Toward Healthy Feet

Your feet carry you everywhere—they deserve expert care. At Foot & Ankle Centers in Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney, Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven provide comprehensive, patient-focused care to keep your feet healthy, strong, and pain-free. From preventive visits to treating injuries or chronic conditions, we’re here to help you step comfortably every day. Schedule your appointment today.