Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thick, and hardened, eventually splitting under pressure. This often develops from standing or walking on hard surfaces for long periods, which places extra stress on the heel. Being overweight can also increase pressure and contribute to skin breakdown. Symptoms include rough skin, visible cracks, and discomfort while walking. Risk factors include poor hydration, lack of foot care, and wearing open back shoes that do not provide support. A podiatrist can remove thickened skin, recommend moisturizing treatments, and provide guidance to prevent worsening of the condition. If you have developed painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this problem.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of the podiatrists from Ark La Tex Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 our offices located in Shreveport and Bossier City, LA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Flat feet, also known as pes planus, fallen arches, or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, occur when the arch of the foot is low or absent. There are different types of flat feet. Flexible flat foot is where the arch appears when not bearing weight but flattens when standing. Rigid flat foot is where the arch remains flattened at all times. Symptoms include pain along the inside of the arch, heel, or ankle, along with fatigue during activity. Causes and risk factors include genetics, tendon weakness, injury, and aging. Without proper support, discomfort can increase. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend supportive footwear or orthotics, and provide treatment to improve comfort and function. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe
Swelling around the inside of the ankle
Flat look to one or both feet
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Shreveport and Bossier City, LA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Athlete's foot is a skin infection that affects the feet and is often caused by fungi that thrive in warm, and moist areas. Three common types of athlete's foot infections are interdigital, moccasin, and vesicular athlete’s foot. Interdigital athlete's foot develops between the toes and causes redness, peeling, and itching. Moccasin type affects the sole and sides of the foot, resulting in thickened, dry, and cracked skin. Vesicular type includes small fluid-filled blisters that may be painful. Causes include contact with contaminated surfaces, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and excessive sweating that creates a damp environment. The infection can spread through direct contact or shared spaces like pools or gyms. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis and provide medical treatment to clear the infection and protect the skin. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of the podiatrists from Ark La Tex Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Thoroughly washing and drying feet
Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
Using shower shoes in public showers
Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Redness
Burning
Itching
Scaly and peeling skin
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Shreveport and Bossier City, LA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
