A common reason for the condition that is known as cracked heels to develop is having excessively dry skin. This can happen as a result of residing in cold environments, wearing shoes that have an open back, or from standing for the majority of the day. Additionally, existing medical conditions may contribute to the formation of cracked heels. These can include psoriasis and eczema, which are known to cause patches of dry skin. Patients have found mild relief when their feet are washed and dried daily, followed by thoroughly applying a good moisturizer. It may help to file the cracked skin away, in addition to wearing socks that are made of natural materials. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist for effective treatment methods.

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 Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A hairline crack in the bones of the foot is generally considered to be a stress fracture. This can be a common ailment among ballet dancers, and may heal faster when it is diagnosed early. Stress fractures may happen as a result of performing dances that have repeated jumping and running routines, however, stress fractures may not be immediately recognized. There can be existing conditions which can significantly increase the possibility of developing a stress fracture. These can include having flat feet or excessively high arches. Additionally, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or dancing for several hours at a time, may lead to a stress fracture. If you feel you have this condition, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this ailment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The feet are often considered to be the foundation of the body. However, as we age, we become more vulnerable to developing painful foot conditions. Some of the most common foot complications elderly patients can experience include the formation of corns or calluses, toenail disorders, bunions, hammertoes, poor circulation, and a lack of fat in the pads of the feet. Systemic disorders such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis may also increase the risk of developing a foot condition. To help care for elderly feet, it’s important that you perform daily checks for any abnormalities or deformities of the feet. Completing these daily checks may also help reduce the risk of falling. To avoid the risk of getting an infection, the feet should be regularly washed and dried. The nails should be properly trimmed, straight across and not too short, and comfortable and supportive footwear should be worn.  If you would like more tips on maintaining the health of elderly feet, it’s suggested that you speak with a podiatrist for professional care.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There are clear signs that can indicate whether athlete's foot has developed or not. A common symptom related to this condition is the formation of a red rash that may spread all over the afflicted foot and is normally found in between the toes. If left untreated, the rash may spread underneath the foot, leaving the skin looking scaly or chalky. Additionally, the rash may be incredibly itchy, however, scratching the affected area may cause more harm to the skin, which is why it is advised that scratching be refrained. Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection that may enter the skin if footwear is not worn in warm, moist environments. Areas where this infection typically spreads can include communal showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. For advice on how to treat your athlete’s foot or for tips on prevention, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for professional care.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.