Cracked heels develop when the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry and begins to split. Shallow cracks can affect only the outer layer of skin and cause little discomfort. Deeper cracks can become painful and sometimes bleed. Dry skin is an important factor because skin that lacks moisture is less flexible and more likely to split under pressure. Aging can contribute because the skin loses moisture more easily as people get older. Athlete’s foot and eczema can also cause dry or irritated skin that increases the chance of heel cracking.

Certain vitamin deficiencies have also been linked with dry, cracked skin. Vitamin E helps protect skin cells and supports healthy skin. Vitamin B-3, also called niacin, helps the body turn food into energy and supports skin health. Severe vitamin B-3 deficiency can cause dry, scaly skin. Vitamin C supports collagen production, which helps give skin structure and strength. A serious vitamin C deficiency can contribute to dry skin and slow wound healing. However, deficiencies of these vitamins are considered rare in developed countries, so cracked heels do not necessarily indicate a nutritional problem.

A podiatrist can examine cracked heels and determine whether another foot or skin problem is contributing to the condition. An evaluation is especially important when cracks are deep, painful, or bleeding. Patients with diabetes or nerve damage should also have cracked heels evaluated because foot wounds can become more serious. A podiatrist can remove thickened skin safely and recommend treatment to protect damaged areas. Care can also address fungal infections or other conditions affecting the skin. Proper treatment can reduce discomfort and help protect the heels from further damage. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Rahil Baxamusa, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor 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 Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flexible feet help support comfortable movement and a steady walking pattern. Each step places pressure on the feet, so their muscles and joints need enough strength and flexibility to handle daily demands. Stiff feet can change the way a person walks. Even small changes in walking can place added stress on the ankles, knees, and hips. The back can also be affected. Limited foot movement can influence balance, while weak foot muscles can make the feet less stable and increase the risk of falls or injuries.

Stretching can help maintain movement in the toes, arches, and surrounding tissues. A big-toe stretch focuses on movement at the joint that plays an important role when pushing off the ground. Calf stretching also affects the foot because tissues from the calf connect to the heel and arch. Toe curls are another movement that can improve flexibility in the toes. Foot strength is important as well. Exercises that involve spreading the toes or rising onto the toes can challenge small foot muscles. However, pain or stiffness can make certain movements difficult and should not be ignored.

A podiatrist can evaluate foot flexibility and determine whether limited movement is connected to pain, joint stiffness, or another foot problem. The examination can include checking toe movement, ankle motion, and the way a patient walks. A podiatrist can identify areas that need greater flexibility or strength and recommend stretches that are appropriate for the patient’s condition. This guidance is especially valuable when an injury or ongoing foot problem affects normal movement. The goal is to support comfortable motion without placing unnecessary strain on painful areas. If your feet are painful or stiff,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Rahil Baxamusa, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This often appears as redness, swelling, and pain along the side of the toe, and it may become tender to touch or pressure from shoes. The condition develops when the nail is cut too short, shaped incorrectly, or when tight footwear pushes the nail into the skin. Risk factors include improper nail trimming, repeated toe trauma, and naturally curved nails. It can also worsen if left untreated, sometimes leading to infection or drainage. People may notice increasing discomfort while walking or wearing closed shoes. A podiatrist can safely treat the ingrown nail, relieve pressure, and prevent recurrence through proper care and guidance. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include partial removal.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Rahil Baxamusa, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.