Items filtered by date: October 2018

Some authorities have determined that cracked heels may develop as a result of the lack of attention the skin on the heels generally gets. There are many causes why this condition may occur, and having dry skin is generally the most common reason why this ailment may develop. Additionally, if the heels should endure excess pressure from being overweight, the chances of developing cracked heels may increase. There may also be a vitamin deficiency in the body, which may lead to the formation of heel fissures. If you stand for the majority of the day or frequently wear open-back sandals, the skin on the heels may gradually become dry and may lead to this uncomfortable condition. Partial relief may be obtained in washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by utilizing a good moisturizer. If you have this condition, please counsel with a podiatrist to learn about preventive measures and additional treatment options for cracked heels.

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 Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. 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 Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has shown the possibility may increase for significant foot damage to occur in diabetic patients. These ailments may include the amputation of a toe or a foot, which may typically be a result of an infected foot ulcer. Some patients may notice a change in the structure of the foot,and this may be referred to as Charcot’s foot. When the glucose levels in the blood are maintained properly, diabetic conditions may be easier to control. Additionally, research has shown the importance of practicing daily foot hygiene, and this may be helpful in preventing uncomfortable and painful foot ailments from developing. It may be common for the diabetic patient to undergo diabetic neuropathy in which symptoms may include experiencing numbness and tingling in the feet. This may make it difficult to feel any cuts and sores that may be present. If you are diabetic, it’s important to be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly advise you on the best treatment options.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Recent research has shown that wearing specific types of flip flops may be beneficial in relieving some of the the discomfort that is associated with plantar fasciitis. There are several types of flip flops that may offer proper arch support, are easily worn, and are convenient to wear. When choosing to purchase this type of shoe, the importance of looking for specific features may be crucial in maintaining comfort and stability that is needed for daily activities. These may include insuring that there is a deep area the heel can fit comfortably in, in addition to having the arch supported properly. If you are afflicted with plantar fasciitis, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist who can properly evaluate this ailment and advise you on correct treatment options.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The tendon that links the calf muscles to the heel bone is referred to as the Achilles tendon or the calcaneal tendon. It is known to be the largest tendon in the body and allows activities such as pointing and flexing to be possible. This function is necessary to walk, run, and jump, and if the Achilles tendon should endure a tear, these activities would be difficult to accomplish. There are several reasons why this particular tendon may become injured, including pushing off suddenly while beginning to run, overcompensation the tendon may undergo if a fall should occur, or suddenly stepping off of a curb. The symptoms that are associated with this condition typically include severe pain and discomfort in the back of the heel, an inability to stand on the tiptoes in addition to not being able to point and flex the toes. If you have endured an injury and you feel the Achilles tendon is torn, please speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Research has shown the majority of people who enjoy running and jogging will experience a minimum of one injury per year. This is due to improper training techniques or failing to warm the muscles up adequately before running. The thought of injuries incurred while running, will typically affect most joggers negatively, depending on the severity of the injury. Serious mishaps may represent mandatory time off from this sport, so proper healing can commence. Some of the injuries that are feared is Achilles tendinitis, which generally affects the back of the heel and calf. This may be able to prevent by stretching the Achilles tendon, and this is often accomplished by standing on a step and raising the heel up, followed by lowering it down. Additionally, shin splints is a common injury that many runners endure, and this may be prevented by wearing the correct shoes while running, in addition to strengthening the calves. Please speak with a podiatrist if you would like additional information about how to prevent running injuries.

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 Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. 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 Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.