Barry Podiatric Alumna Dispels Some Common Foot Health Myths

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, three out of four Americans experience serious foot problems in their lifetimes. "From the time we spend on our feet to the shoes we wear to hereditary and medical issues, all of these can impact our feet," said Dr. Jacqueline Brill, a podiatrist on Miami Beach. In the search for relief, Brill said many consumers look to products with big promises. "I'm stunned sometimes by the claims," Brill said.

A popular product called Yoga Toes promises to ease tired feet and eliminate bunions. "There is nothing, not even the old bunion splints, that can change this toe deformity," Brill said. She added that using Yoga Toes would be a good way to stretch out tired feet. "They will relax the toes, which is nice at the end of a long day," Brill said. Another product called "Kinoki Foot Pads" didn't score any points with Brill. Wearing the foot pads overnight is supposed to cleanse the body of toxins. "This is patently absurd," Brill said. "The liver cleanses the body, not the skin."

Brill said consumers need to buy with a skeptical eye and should disregard some common foot-care myths. "It's a myth that shaving calluses makes them grow back faster or thicker," Brill said. "Reducing calluses, as long as you don't go too far, is actually good for your feet."

Dr. Jacqueline Brill