Cracked heels are a common foot issue that can cause discomfort and pain. The main reason for cracked heels is dry skin, which can be exacerbated by factors such as standing for long periods, wearing open-back shoes, or exposure to harsh weather conditions. Other causes include obesity, diabetes, and certain skin conditions like eczema. When the skin loses moisture and elasticity, it can become thickened and eventually crack, leading to pain and potential infection. A podiatrist can treat cracked heels by thoroughly examining the feet and providing professional care. Treatment may involve debridement to remove dead skin, moisturizing therapies, and recommending proper footwear. Podiatrists may also suggest orthotics or other interventions to address any underlying causes, ensuring the feet heal properly and preventing future cracks. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer prescribed medication as part of a successful treatment regime.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM from Rorick Podiatry, PC. 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 New York Mills, Utica, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Neuropathic pain in athletes can stem from nerve damage or dysfunction in the feet and lower limbs, often presenting as burning, tingling, or shooting pain. Causes may include repetitive stress, direct trauma, or conditions like tarsal tunnel syndrome, where nerves are compressed. Diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and excessive alcohol use can also increase the risk of nerve damage, although athletes may overlook these factors due to otherwise healthy lifestyles. The hidden dangers of neuropathic pain lie in its potential to impair performance, affect the feet, cause gait changes, and worsen with time if left untreated. Athletes may alter their stride to minimize discomfort which can lead to further injuries in the knees, hips, or back. If you are an athlete with neuropathic pain, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist who can help diagnose the root cause, assess nerve function, and create a treatment plan specific to you.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Gregory Rorick, DPM from Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
Numbness
Sensation loss
Prickling and tingling sensations
Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New York Mills, Utica, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Poorly fitting ski boots can lead to foot pain, turning a fun day on the slopes into an uncomfortable experience. When the boot shape does not match your foot, pressure points develop, causing soreness and even bruising. An incorrect flex level can also strain the feet, with overly stiff boots restricting movement, and softer boots failing to offer needed support. Worn-out or packed-down soles worsen stability, increasing the risk of pain or injury. Improperly buckling the boots or wearing thick socks can also add unnecessary pressure, compressing the foot and restricting circulation. Choosing thinner, moisture-wicking socks helps with warmth and comfort without extra bulk. If you are having trouble with foot pain from your ski boots, a podiatrist can assist in helping you select the right ski boots, and perhaps provide custom orthotics to improve fit and support.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM of Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciosis
Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in New York Mills, Utica, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
