Cracked heels are a common foot condition characterized by the splitting of dry, thick skin on the heels. When only the outer layer of skin is affected, it may not be painful but can be uncomfortable. In more severe cases, the cracks can extend into the healthy skin, causing pain, bleeding, and infection risk. Several factors contribute to cracked heels, including prolonged standing, wearing unsupportive footwear, and biomechanical issues. Additionally, taking hot showers, increase in weight, and medical conditions such as diabetes may contribute to developing cracked heels. They are often more prevalent in the summer due to wearing open-back shoes and warm weather. Symptoms of cracked heels often include discomfort, pain while standing, itchiness, and dry, white skin on the heels. Treatment involves removing the dry skin, addressing underlying problems or infections, and preventing recurrence. Prevention strategies include regular callus removal, daily moisturizing, and wearing appropriate footwear. If you are suffering from cracked heels and they are not responding to everyday foot care, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a specialized treatment plan.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. 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 Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe is a common injury, and can cause difficulty if it does not heal. Several factors can contribute to a broken toe that doesn’t mend as expected. Misdiagnosis can sometimes occur, where a toe injury may be more severe than initially believed. This may lead to a delayed diagnosis or inadequate treatment. Additionally, tiny hairline fractures, known as stress fractures, can be challenging to detect, and may not heal properly if not identified. Poor immobilization, with inadequately fitted splints or casts, can hinder the healing process. Medical conditions, such as diabetes or vascular disease, can slow down the healing process. Also, continuous stress on the broken toe, such as excessive walking or standing, can impede proper healing. Lastly, untreated or undetected infections in or around the broken toe can further obstruct the healing process. If you are dealing with a broken toe that does not seem to be healing, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist promptly. This medically trained foot doctor can identify the underlying cause and recommend a treatment plan appropriate to the cause.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes affects the body's ability to heal foot wounds due to its impact on metabolizing glucose. High blood sugar levels hinder wound healing by preventing efficient nutrient and oxygen delivery, reducing immune system function, and increasing inflammation. Peripheral neuropathy, common in diabetes, can lead to reduced sensation in the feet, making foot wounds more prevalent. Poor circulation, often linked to diabetes, further impairs healing by reducing blood flow and affecting red blood cell function. Immune system deficiencies in diabetes hinder the body's ability to heal foot wounds and increase the risk of infection. Elevated blood sugar levels also promote bacterial growth, worsening the risk of infection. To aid in foot wound healing, performing regular self-foot checks are crucial in detecting wounds early. Removing dead tissue, keeping dressings fresh, and avoiding pressure on the wound can facilitate healing. If you experience symptoms such as tingling, burning, or persistent pain, or if your foot wound worsens, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can help you manage this serious condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.