Items filtered by date: November 2024

Cracked heels are a common issue that can lead to discomfort, pain, and in severe cases, infection. Cracked heels develop when thickened skin on the heels, called calluses, becomes dry and splits open due to pressure from walking or standing. This is particularly common in people with diabetes or circulation issues, like peripheral artery disease. Callused skin first develops as a protective response to friction and pressure, but it can crack if it becomes too dry. The subsequent heel fissures can cause discomfort, make walking difficult and increase the chances of infection. A podiatrist can help by carefully debriding thickened calluses to reduce pressure and advising on proper foot care and moisturizing techniques. This foot doctor can also determine if you have any underlying issues that may need medical attention. Such a proactive approach can help reduce the risk of complications and promote foot health. If you have problematic cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and 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 Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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 Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

High arches, also known as cavus foot, can lead to various foot problems due to the uneven distribution of weight. People with high arches often experience pain on the outside of the foot, ankle instability, and discomfort under the ball of the foot, particularly beneath the first metatarsal. The high arch foot structure puts excessive pressure on certain areas, which can increase the risk of issues like plantar fasciitis. Instability in the ankle can cause people to feel like they are tipping outward, which may lead to lateral foot pain or stress fractures. Diagnosing high arches involves evaluating muscle strength, assessing pain patterns, and using imaging tests, if necessary. A podiatrist can prescribe custom orthotics to support the foot’s structure and relieve pressure points. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to correct deformities or address any underlying issues. If you have high arches and are eperiencing foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.