Items filtered by date: April 2023

Cracked heels can occur when the skin on the back of the heels becomes excessively dry, due to a lack of moisture. These cracks may deepen and collect debris, which are known as fissures. Many different things can contribute to the development of cracked heels. Standing for prolonged periods of time, for example, can lead to the onset of cracked heels. Particularly, if an individual is standing on hard surfaces, such as concrete or uneven terrain, this may also be a reason this ailment may develop. If you are someone who must stand for hours at a time, then wearing supportive footwear that is padded may improve your situation. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today if you are concerned about getting cracked heels from standing. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Kristopher Jerry, DPM from Podiatry Health Services . 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 offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people experience foot pain, whether it is chronic or occasional. Foot pain that is felt every day may be a result of specific conditions such as arthritis, hammertoe, or having a bunion. Pain that is felt once in a while may come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly or standing for long periods of time. Older people may have foot pain from a loss of padding in the feet, which helps to absorb shock. Blisters on the feet may be uncomfortable, and excess friction from the socks or shoes that are worn is generally the cause. Young children and teenagers may suffer from Sever’s disease, which is an inflammation of the muscles surrounding the growth plate in the heel. It affects active people in this age group, and parents may notice their child is limping. There are additional reasons to have foot pain, and it is suggested that a podiatrist be contacted who can pinpoint the exact cause, and offer you correct treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kristopher Jerry, DPM  from Podiatry Health Services . 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 offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes is a serious health condition that may eventually affect the feet. It is a common occurrence among diabetic patients, and keeping a close eye on blood sugar levels may help to prevent diabetic foot ulcers. People who have diabetes may be prone to developing neuropathy, which is nerve damage that is caused by high sugar levels. This can cause the inability to feel existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes that have developed, increasing the importance of performing daily self examinations. This can be done by using a mirror to detect small cuts, or an available family member or caregiver may be able to assist with this. Diabetic foot care consists of trimming the toenails weekly and washing and drying the feet thoroughly. It is beneficial to refrain from participating in activities that can injure the feet, in addition to wearing shoes and socks that fit correctly. The risk of developing foot conditions may be reduced when glucose levels are controlled by being closely monitored. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Kristopher Jerry, DPM from Podiatry Health Services . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Children’s feet are flexible and pliable when they are born. Each foot has 26 bones that will harden as the time for walking approaches. This generally occurs between eight and 18 months, and often parents notice their child walks with their toes inward. This usually corrects itself as the muscles, ligaments, and tendons become stronger within the foot. It is beneficial for the child to walk barefoot while indoors, and the foot can strengthen as the toes grip the floor. When it is time to walk outdoors, it is beneficial for the first pair of shoes to be made of flexible materials with a flat sole, and the feet need to be measured every few months to determine the correct shoe size. Additionally, the toes need to move freely in the chosen shoes, and laces or straps are recommended that can help to prevent excess movement. If you have questions about what type of shoes to purchase for your child’s growing feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Kristopher Jerry, DPM of Podiatry Health Services . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.