Warm weather and open shoes often lead to dry, cracked skin on the feet. Sandals and flip-flops expose the heels and soles to air and rough surfaces, which can cause moisture to escape and skin to become rough. Walking barefoot, especially on hot pavement or sand, may also contribute to dryness and irritation. Regular moisturizing, gentle exfoliation, and wearing shoes that protect the heels can help keep skin smooth. Staying hydrated and avoiding long hot showers may also support skin health. If cracks become deep or painful, bacteria can enter and cause further problems. Paying attention to early signs, such as flaking or tight skin, may prevent more serious damage later. If your feet are showing signs of severe dryness or painful cracking that does not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for guidance and effective treatment.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Newburgand Taylorsville, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A rupture of the plantar fascia can cause sudden, sharp pain in the sole of the foot, often described as a tearing or popping sensation. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that supports the arch and helps absorb the impact of walking and running. While plantar fasciitis is more common, a complete tear is rare. It typically occurs during high-impact sports or sudden movements, especially in people with tight arches or who have a history of foot strain. A plantar fascia rupture may lead to swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through an MRI scan, which helps determine the extent of the damage. In some cases, surgery may be needed, especially if the tissue fails to heal after conservative treatment. A podiatrist can diagnose the problem and guide recovery through wearing supportive footwear, immobilization, or surgery, if needed. If you have extreme pain on the sole of your feet, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Excessive running
Having high arches in your feet
Other foot issues such as flat feet
Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
Maintain a healthy weight
If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Newburgand Taylorsville, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Falls in the workplace often occur due to slippery surfaces, poor lighting, loose cords, or wearing improper footwear. These accidents can cause serious foot injuries such as fractures, sprains, and heel trauma that may lead to long recovery times. The feet are especially vulnerable during a fall because they often absorb the initial impact. A podiatrist can provide expert care for any resulting injuries and recommend footwear or orthotics to improve stability. Preventative advice may also include exercises to enhance balance. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury during a fall, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Newburgand Taylorsville, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Persistent heel soreness is a frequent complaint, and footwear often plays a bigger role than people realize. Many cases stem from stress placed on the band of tissue that supports the underside of the foot. Shoes lacking in support, structure, or shock absorption allow strain to build with every step. Over time, this strain can lead to discomfort that flares up during the first steps of the day or after periods of rest. Footwear that properly supports the arch, cushions impact, and promotes natural alignment can help reduce that stress and give the foot a chance to recover. It is not only about comfort and style in the moment, it is about protection that helps prevent the issue from continuing. If walking has become uncomfortable due to heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
Wearing ill-fitting shoes
Wearing non-supportive shoes
Weight change
Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Newburgand Taylorsville, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
