Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thick, and unable to stretch properly, leading to splits and discomfort. This condition, known as heel fissures, often results from prolonged pressure on the feet, insufficient moisture, or exposure to harsh conditions. Walking barefoot or wearing open-back shoes can increase the risk by allowing moisture to escape and causing the skin to harden. Medical conditions like diabetes, eczema, or thyroid disorders may also contribute to excessive dryness. Standing for long hours on a hard surface can worsen the problem by adding stress to the heels. This common condition can be painful. If you have developed problematic cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication for relief.

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 Highpoint Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioners 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 Chalfont, Doylestown, and Hatboro, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, and for athletes, it can be a game-changer. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed from overuse, excessive impact, or improper biomechanics. Runners, basketball players, and dancers are especially prone due to repetitive foot stress. Sharp, stabbing pain is often worse in the morning or after long periods of activity. Ignoring it can lead to chronic discomfort and even compensatory injuries in the knees or hips. Treatment includes rest, stretching, wearing proper footwear, and sometimes custom orthotics to provide arch support. If you are an athlete eager to stay in the game, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Highpoint Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Chalfont, Doylestown, and Hatboro, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal invasion that thrives in warm, sweaty conditions. Whether you are an athlete or just someone who wears the same shoes too often, this infection can sneak up on you. It often starts as dry, peeling skin between the toes, but soon, the itching, burning, and cracking begin. In severe cases, blisters or a foul odor can develop, making every step miserable. Worse, the fungus can spread to toenails or even hands, if left untreated. Avoiding athlete’s foot means keeping feet dry, changing socks regularly, and wearing breathable shoes. Mild antifungals help, but persistent cases may need prescription medication. If your feet feel like they are under attack, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for more advanced treatment.

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 Highpoint Foot & Ankle Center.  Our practitioners 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 Chalfont, Doylestown, and Hatboro, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and sometimes infection. When conservative treatments, such as soaking and proper nail trimming, do not relieve the condition, surgery may be necessary. There are several types of ingrown toenail surgery. The most common is a partial nail avulsion, where the affected portion of the toenail is removed. In some cases, a chemical or surgical procedure may be used to destroy the nail matrix, preventing the nail from growing back and causing further problems. Another option is a wedge resection, which involves removing a small piece of the toenail and the surrounding tissue to provide long-term relief. Ingrown toenail surgeries are typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort. If you have an ingrown toenail that is uncomfortable or has become infected, it is suggested that you seek the guidance of a podiatrist who can determine if this type of surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Highpoint Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioners will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Chalfont, Doylestown, and Hatboro, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.