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 Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. 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 Palos Heights, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot sprain occurs when the ligaments in the foot are overstretched or torn due to an awkward landing or sudden twisting. This injury often results from activities such as football, snowboarding, and dance, where the body pivots but the foot remains in one place. Foot sprains are classified into three levels. Grade I involves minor tears to the ligament, in grade II the tears are more severe, and with grade III sprains, the ligament is completely torn or detached. Symptoms of midfoot sprains include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of your foot sprain and provide treatment, which may involve wearing a splint or boot. Rehabilitation exercises also may be prescribed to strengthen the foot and prevent future injury. In severe cases, surgical repair of the ligaments may be needed. If you have sprained your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Palos Heights, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.