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There are many people who notice they have dry skin on their feet, especially in the cold months. This could lead to a condition that is referred to as cracked heels, which may become a serious ailment if it is not treated properly. Some of methods that can be used to prevent cracked heels include moisturizing the feet within five minutes of bathing, and wearing shoes that have a closed back. Dry skin on the heels may be prevented by applying a balm and wearing socks before bed. People who are obese may experience cracked heels, as a result of the extra weight the feet must endure. There may be existing medical conditions that can lead to this ailment, such as diabetes and thyroid disorders. Cracked heels can cause pain and discomfort, and may bleed in severe cases. If you notice dry skin on your heels, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist before it becomes worse and develops into cracked heels.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Edward D. Hutson from Easton, PA. . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Foot pain is common among people worldwide and it can happen from neglect, improper care, and lack of awareness. A common foot condition known as a bunion can develop from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room in the toe area. Many people wear orthotics which may help to redistribute the weight of the foot and can possibly reduce pain too. Corns are caused by excess friction from wearing shoes and socks that are too tight. Relief may be found when a protective pad is worn over the corn and larger shoes are purchased. The arthritic condition called gout generally causes severe pain and discomfort and results due to excess uric acid in the joints of the big toe. Many people change their diet by eliminating red meat and shellfish which may help to prevent gout attacks. Patients who have been afflicted with plantar warts may be familiar with the pain that this ailment can cause. It is a hardened area of skin that is found on the bottom of the foot and grows inward. It is considered to be contagious and is caused by a fungus. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with the correct treatment methods.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Edward D. Hutson from Easton, PA. . 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 Easton, and Northampton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A symptom of the foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis is severe heel pain, and it can make daily activities difficult to complete. The plantar fascia is found on the sole of the foot, and it connects the heel to the toes. Many people have found the benefits of practicing specific foot stretches to help ease heel pain. A towel stretch is an effective exercise for the bottom of the foot. This is done by sitting on the floor, and wrapping a towel around the sole of the foot, and gently flexing the foot towards the face. Some patients find it helpful to practice heel stretches. This is accomplished by standing on a step, and lowering the heels one at a time, until a mild stretch is felt. There are many exercises that can specifically help plantar fasciitis. If you would like more information about this, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively guide you.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Edward D. Hutson  from Easton, PA. . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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