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Why Are My Heels Cracked?
Cracked heels are unfortunately a common condition that can occasionally lead to heel pain and even infection. There are many reasons why your heels may be cracked. Not drinking enough water, which causes dehydration, may make the skin all over your body dry and cracked, including the skin on your heels. Having chronically sweaty, wet feet or sunburned soles can also create peeling skin and cracks on your heels. Certain underlying skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, and athlete’s foot often lead to dry, cracked heels as well. If you have painful cracked heels, consult with a podiatrist, who can provide you with treatment and relief.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. 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 State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Solutions for Cracked HeelsRoomier Shoes may Help Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a common deformity of the joints in which a person's toe is bent into a claw-like position. Usually this will affect the second toe, but can occur in the third fourth and fifth toe too. It is typically caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes with high heels and little room for the toes to move. Hammertoe typically starts with mild deformities which progress over time. Left untreated, hammertoes may require surgical intervention. Fortunately, hammertoes may be prevented entirely or have their progression slowed by wearing appropriate footwear. It is suggested to look for shoes with plenty of room in the toe area. Avoid high heels and shoes with pointed toes. A podiatrist can help you find the best footwear to prevent or mitigate the progression of hammertoe. A podiatrist may also prescribe pads, orthotic devices, or medications, or may even recommend surgery in more severe cases.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about HammertoeWounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
A Common Reason Blisters Develop on the Feet
The definition of a blister is a small pocket that is filled with fluid. This can develop as a result of consistent friction that can come from wearing shoes and socks that do not fit correctly. It is the body’s natural healing response to skin that has become damaged. When new skin has formed under the blister, it will gradually drain, and is no longer needed. It may be helpful to protect the blister with a protective covering while daily activities are being completed. It is beneficial to remove the covering or bandage while sleeping as this may help to accelerate the healing process. Blisters may be prevented by wearing shoes and socks that fit correctly, and this can be accomplished when they are purchased in the afternoon, when the feet are at their largest. If you would like additional information on how to treat and prevent blisters from developing on the feet, please speak with a podiatrist.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
- Bubble of skin filled with fluid
- Redness
- Moderate to severe pain
- Itching
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Blisters on the FeetMethods That May Help To Prevent Falling
Research has indicated many elderly people have difficulty recovering from injuries that have occurred from falling. This can lead to a loss of independence, disability, and possibly chronic pain. There are simple measures that can be implemented which may help to reduce the risk of falling. These can include participating in a routine exercise program, improving the lighting in the household, and removing worn carpeting. Existing medications can be reviewed when regular physical and eye examinations are performed. If you would like additional information about the effects falling can have on the feet, please speak with a podiatrist.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Falls PreventionPossible Causes Of An Achilles Tendon Injury
It is extremely important to protect the Achilles tendon. It is located in the back of the leg, and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is the thickest tendon in the body, and can easily tear if it becomes injured. This can happen from frequently participating in running and jumping activities, or from unexpectedly stepping off of a curb. An Achilles tendon injury can cause severe pain and discomfort, and can take several weeks to fully recover. Common symptoms of this type of injury can include extreme tenderness, swelling, and it can often be difficult to walk on. As the healing process occurs, it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, in addition to performing specific stretches. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment options are for you.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What are Achilles Tendon InjuriesTypes of Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is a fracture that occurs in the tibia, fibia, or the talus, which is the bone that connects the leg to the heel. While broken ankles are usually caused by a twisting or turning motion, stress fractures can occur when the legs and feet are overused. While there are many types of unique fractures, there are four that are most common. The bimalleolar ankle fracture occurs when the knob on the inside of the ankle is fractured. A trimalleolar fracture involves the medial (inside), lateral (outside), and posterior (back) malleoli all breaking. Medical malleous ankle fractures occur in the lower portion of the tibia, and a pilon fracture occurs on the weight bearing roof of the ankle. Fractures can also be displaced, meaning bones are out of their normal alignment, or non displaced, which are bones that are aligned but still broken. While these are the most common fractures, each break is unique, so it is important to consult with a podiatrist for more detailed information about your injury and a treatment plan towards recovery.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about All About Broken AnkleIt's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
What Causes Ankle Pain?
The hinge joints that are located in the ankle allow for maximum mobility and range of motion. They are necessary in supporting the weight of the body, and provide the ability to walk, run, and jump. Inflammation and swelling often accompanies an ankle injury, and it may be difficult to move the affected foot. Additional symptoms can include muscle soreness, a tingling sensation, and the ankle may feel unstable. Ankle pain can occur for a variety of reasons. These can include structural deformities, Achilles tendon injuries, or from existing medical conditions consisting of lupus and different types of arthritis. If you are experiencing any type of ankle pain, it is strongly advised that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Ankle Pain
Sweaty Feet Can Be Common Among Babies
Sweating is the natural method to regulate body heat. Many people can become overheated as a result of exercising, having anxiety, and enduring hormonal changes. Additionally, genetic factors and existing medical conditions may play a significant role in having sweaty feet. This condition is known as plantar hyperhidrosis. When overheating occurs, the sweat glands are activated to restore the body to normal temperatures. Some children have feet that sweat for the majority of the day, and this may cause embarrassment if the shoes and socks are removed. If you notice your child has this condition, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat it.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Hyperhidrosis of the FeetMore...
Wearing Orthotics May Help Arthritic Feet
Inflammation of the joints in the feet can be indicative of the condition that is known as arthritis. It can cause severe pain and discomfort, and daily activities may be difficult to accomplish. There are several types of this ailment, consisting of gout, rheumatoid, and osteoarthritis. Gout generally affects the joints in the big toe, and can be caused by excess uric acid in the blood. This may occur as a result of eating foods that have elevated purine levels, and it may be beneficial to incorporate healthy foods as a part of your daily eating habits. Many patients find relief from arthritis when shoes that are worn fit properly. Additionally, it may be beneficial to wear custom-made orthotics, and this may help to reduce existing pressure this condition may cause. If you are afflicted with any type of arthritis in the feet, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can successfully treat this condition.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Arthritic Foot CareSever’s Disease Symptoms
When the tendons around the heel’s growth plate become inflamed, it is likely that Sever’s disease may develop. This condition is often common among growing teens who participate in sporting activities. Sever’s disease can be caused by repetitive stress to the heel. It can also develop when other structures of the body, such as bones, tendons, and muscles grow at different rates. Common symptoms include heel pain, redness, and swelling of the affected area. This condition may also make it uncomfortable or painful to walk and run, and can cause tenderness to the heel. For more information on how Sever’s disease can be treated, it’s suggested you consult with a podiatrist.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Read more about Sever's DiseaseCalcium and Heel Spurs
An excess of calcium that forms underneath the heel bone can be a characteristic of a heel spur. It can gradually develop as a result of strain and inflammation on the muscles and ligaments, and the tissues surrounding the heel may swell. Some patients find moderate relief when the affected foot is elevated, a healthy weight is maintained, and shoes that fit properly are worn for the majority of the day. It is beneficial to perform certain foot stretches that can help strengthen the feet, and it may help to take anti-inflammatory medication as well. If you feel you have developed a heel spur, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to determine the severity, and offer treatment options that are correct for you.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Sharon Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Read more about How to Treat Heel SpursHeel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.