Cracked heels are a common foot condition characterized by dry, fissured skin around the edges of the heels. Several factors contribute to their development, including prolonged standing, wearing open-back shoes, and dehydration. Certain medical conditions like diabetes and thyroid disorders can also contribute. Lack of moisture and inadequate foot care can exacerbate the problem, leading to discomfort and potential complications, such as infection. To manage cracked heels, it is important to maintain proper foot hygiene and hydration by regularly moisturizing the feet and avoiding harsh soaps. Exfoliating dead skin with a pumice stone or foot file can help smooth rough patches. Wearing supportive footwear and cushioned socks also aids in preventing further damage. If cracked heels persist or become painful, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist. This type of doctor can assess the severity of the condition, provide specialized treatments such as prescription creams or debridement, and offer guidance on preventive measures to promote healing and prevent recurrence.

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 PA Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pregnancy is a transformative journey for women, but it often comes with physical challenges, including changes in foot structure and increased plantar pressure. As the body undergoes hormonal shifts and weight gain, the arches of the feet may flatten, leading to heightened plantar pressure. This increased pressure can contribute to foot pain, discomfort, and conditions like plantar fasciitis. The body's natural response to the added weight and altered biomechanics can result in strained ligaments and muscles, worsening foot pain during pregnancy. Choosing supportive footwear, incorporating gentle exercises, and opting for custom orthotics can help alleviate plantar pressure and mitigate foot pain. Understanding the dynamic relationship between foot pain and plantar pressure is essential for expectant mothers to prioritize foot health during this unique and transformative period. Seeking guidance from a podiatrist can provide tailored strategies to manage foot discomfort, allowing pregnant women to navigate this remarkable journey with greater comfort and well-being. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief tips.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

It is beneficial for runners to include running injury prevention techniques in their warm-up routines. A holistic approach can consist of blending basic stretches with simple yoga poses to invigorate your running journey. This can begin with the classic hamstring stretch. Extend one leg forward, gently lean, and feel the tension dissipate along the back of your thigh. Then, transition to the downward facing dog, grounding your palms and lifting your hips for a full-body release. Transitioning into the low lunge, sink your hips forward, feeling the stretch reverberate through your hip flexors and thighs. This can be followed by warrior II, with arms outstretched, grounding your stance, empowering your legs and core. Integrating these foundational stretches and yoga poses into your routine fosters flexibility, strength, and mindfulness, elevating your running experience to new heights. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain as a result of running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.