Home Care for Cracked Heels
When the feet become too dry, the skin on the heels can harden and crack. Cracked heels can be unsightly and uncomfortable. In some cases, the cracks can be deep, painful, and may even bleed. Treating and preventing dry, cracked heels begins with establishing a daily foot care routine. Soak the feet for at least 10 minutes in plain water and pat them dry, then gently rub your heels with a loofah to remove dead skin. Next, apply a thick moisturizer to the heels and put on cotton socks to seal in the moisture. If home treatments are not effective, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for 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 Quality Foot Care Center. 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 office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Solutions for Cracked HeelsDiagnosing Stress Fractures
A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone that often occur in the feet as a result of overuse while playing sports or doing activities that involve running or jumping. Everyday activities can also lead to stress fractures in people with weakened bones. Pain, tenderness, and swelling are usually the first indications of a stress fracture. These symptoms should not be ignored, as stress fractures may worsen over time if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose a stress fracture by taking a thorough medical history, completing a physical examination, and ordering imaging studies such as X-rays or bone scans. If you suspect that you may have a stress fracture in your foot or ankle, please see a podiatrist.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
- Runners
- People affected with Osteoporosis
- Tennis or basketball players
- Gymnasts
- High impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Stress Fractures of the Foot and AnkleCongenital Foot Deformities
When a baby is born, people will sometimes use the expression “10 fingers and 10 toes” to reference the newborn’s good health. But what if there is a problem with those 10 (or more) toes? Congenital foot deformities are differences in the structure of a baby’s feet that are present from birth. Fortunately, most of these conditions are treatable and do not cause any serious complications. Clubfoot is a deformity in which the baby’s feet are twisted inwards at the ankle. This generally does not cause any pain, but may interfere with walking later on. It can be corrected through a series of braces and casts. Metatarsus adductus is a common deformity in which part of the child’s foot turns inwards. Most cases resolve on their own, and stretching exercises or casts and orthotics can help those that don’t. Polydactyly is a mutation in which the baby has extra toes. Treatment will depend on the location and functionality of the extra toes, but may include surgery once the child is a little bit older. If you have any concerns about your baby’s foot health please consult with a podiatrist.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet HealthyConditions Associated with Heel Spurs
Painful conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis occur when connective tissue repeatedly pulls on the calcaneus (heel) bone. Because of the stress these conditions place on ligaments and muscles around the heel bone, hard calcium deposits may develop over time on the bottom or back of the calcaneus. Pain from a heel spur may be hard to differentiate from the associated plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. People with flat feet, high arches, gait issues, or who spend a lot of time on their feet, or are obese, can be more prone to developing heel spurs. Also, middle-aged people who participate in athletic activities that put a good amount of stress on the feet may have an increased risk. If you are experiencing any pain on the bottom or back of your heel, contact a podiatrist for a full examination.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Read more about Heel SpursCommon Running Injuries to the Feet
Running is a sport that can be great exercise and improve your overall physical fitness, but unfortunately, runners can be prone to foot and ankle injuries. Between 9% and 32% of running injuries affect the lower legs, 4-16% of running injuries affect the ankles, and 5-39% of running injuries affect the feet. Some of the most common lower limb injuries among people who run are Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and ankle sprains. Furthermore, runners may be prone to ingrown toenails, anterior compartment syndrome, and calf strain. If you are a runner, consult with a podiatrist who can advise you on how to prevent running injuries.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Prevent Running InjuriesHeel Pain Can Be Treated!
What Is Metatarsalgia?
Metatarsalgia is a common foot condition characterized by pain in the front of the foot. When the metatarsal bones are exposed to high levels of stress, they can become inflamed. This leads to symptoms such as sudden or gradually worsening pain in the front of the foot, and burning, aching, shooting, tingling, or a numb sensation in the foot. Metatarsalgia is often associated with other foot conditions, including Morton’s neuroma, metatarsophalangeal synovitis, avascular necrosis, sesamoiditis, and inflammatory arthritis. While anyone can develop this condition, athletes who enjoy running or other high impact sports may be more susceptible. If you have pain in the front of one or both of your feet, please seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat this ailment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Foot PainHow Orthotics Can Help Prevent Running Injuries
Runners’ feet can take a beating striking the ground roughly 800 times for every mile they run. Even the best running shoe may not offer the support and cushioning necessary to avoid pain or overuse injuries to the arches and heels such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, sesamoiditis, stress fractures, metatarsalgia, and more. The lack of proper foundational support leading to these conditions can also negatively affect knees, hips, and the lower back. Custom orthotics may prevent and also treat overuse injuries and can even correct imbalances in a runner’s stride which can lead to foot pain and other issues. If you are a runner, consider contacting a podiatrist who can examine your feet, create custom orthotics to support your individual foot structure and address your specific foot condition.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle InjuriesBefore you start dancing...
How Runners Can Heal Their Heels
When you walk or run, the thick tissue on the bottom of your feet connecting the front of your foot with your heel—the plantar fascia—stretches and contracts. Repeated stretching and contracting of the plantar fascia can precipitate tearing or inflammation, otherwise known as plantar fasciitis. Runners are often afflicted with plantar fasciitis, which can cause a stabbing pain located on the bottom of the heel. Some simple at-home therapies for plantar fasciitis include refraining from activities that aggravate the area, icing it with an ice pack or massaging it by rolling a frozen water bottle under your feet. Additionally, a podiatrist may be able to help heal the plantar fascia by taping or splinting it, creating custom orthotics, or suggesting proper footwear and gentle stretching exercises.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
More...
How Can an Achilles Tendon Injury Occur?
The Achilles tendon is an integral part of having mobility in everyday activities. It is located in the back of the leg, and connects the calf muscles to the heel. It is considered to be the strongest tendon in the body, but can still become injured and cause pain. Injuries can happen as a result of playing sports, suddenly stepping off of a curb, or wearing high heels over an extended period of time. Many patients can endure a partial tear, which may occur from an Achilles tendon that has gradually become weak. A complete tear will most likely make walking impossible and immediate treatment is recommended. If you have experienced any type of injury to your Achilles tendon, please consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Why Can Blisters Develop?
Patients who develop blisters on their feet are often aware of the discomfort they can cause. They generally form as a result of excessive friction that may come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. It is considered to be the body’s natural way to heal damaged skin. Blisters are defined as a small area of fluid that forms over the injured skin. The blister will gradually drain as new skin grows, and it is important to keep it protected while wearing shoes. People who run may be prone to developing blisters, and it may help to soak the feet when the running activity is completed. If you have blisters on your feet, and would like to learn about possible preventive methods, it is suggestd that you speak with a podiatrist.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
How High Heels Can Hurt You
Although stylish, high heeled shoes can cause damage to your feet and ankles. Your feet are designed to bear the weight of your body more or less evenly as you stand, walk, and go about your daily activities. When wearing high heels, that weight is shifted forward, putting immense strain on the front of the foot. This can lead to a variety of foot problems, from bunions to plantar fasciitis. High heels also affect the ankles. It can be difficult to stay balanced in high heels as you walk, which puts you at an increased risk for ankle sprains. Wearing high heels habitually causes the Achilles tendon to stiffen over time, further increasing the risk of ankle injuries. For more information about the dangers of high heels, please consult with a podiatrist.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.