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What Can Cause Cracked Heels?
Many people are afflicted with a condition that is known as cracked heels. This is an ailment that produces dry skin, which may lead to the skin painfully splitting or cracking. Common reasons for cracked heels to develop can include standing for the majority of the day, or wearing shoes that have an open back. Additionally, there are medical conditions that can contribute to the development of this condition. These may consist of diabetes, psoriasis, or thyroid disorders. Some patients find moderate relief when the feet are washed in warm water, followed by using a good moisturizer several times throughout the day. If you have cracked heels, and would like additional information about how to prevent and treat this condition, we recommend that you consult with a podiatrist.
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 Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. 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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Possible Causes of Morton’s Neuroma
The medical condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma is defined as swelling around the nerves that pass between the bones in the foot. It can cause pain and discomfort at the ball of the foot, as well as a burning or numbing sensation in the toes. It can develop as a result of a muscular disorder, in addition to participating in certain sporting activities. Wearing high heels may cause this condition to develop, and this can be due to minimal room for the toes to move freely in. Effective treatments may consist of wearing custom made orthotics, and performing specific exercises and stretches that may help in the healing process. If you have any of these symptoms, it is advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment techniques.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Protective Boots and Stress Fractures
The bones in your foot which connect the ankle to the toes are referred to as the metatarsal bones. These bones can be affected if a stress fracture occurs. Stress fractures can be a common injury among people who frequently run or participate in jumping activities. Additionally, patients who have medical conditions that include osteoporosis or arthritis may be prone to developing this condition. It is considered to be a hairline fracture, and can cause considerable pain and discomfort. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically consists of having a bone scan or an MRI taken, treatment can begin. This may involve wearing a protective boot as the healing process takes place. Mild relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, as this may help to reduce existing swelling. If you have a stress fracture, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
- Runners
- People affected with Osteoporosis
- Tennis or basketball players
- Gymnasts
- High impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Treating Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails can be both uncomfortable and painful if left untreated. One of the most common causes of their development is hereditary or genetic factors. The curvature of your toenails are passed down to you, so if you have family members that are prone to getting ingrown toenails, it is likely you may run the same risk. Cutting your toenails too short is another cause of getting an ingrown toenail. If they are cut too short, the skin around the toe will adapt, forming an ingrown toenail. It is also advised you do not cut your toenails on an angle, rather trim them straight across. If you are experiencing pain, a podiatrist may suggest a splint to help stop the nail from growing any further into your skin. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may suggest surgery and full removal of the toenail. To help ease the pain, it’s recommended that you soak your feet in epsom salt, as this will also help to get rid of any bacteria under the toenails. For professional care we recommend you consult with a podiatrist who can advise you on the best course of treatment for your case.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Maintaining the Health of Your Child’s Feet
The feet are the foundation of the body, so it’s important to make sure your child’s feet are healthy and well cared for to prepare them for supporting the body as they age. One way of helping your child’s feet gain strength is to allow for proper movement. As they begin to kick and crawl, they are working the muscles in their feet, so supporting this motion will only help them to become stronger. To allow for proper movement, it is also recommended to avoid dressing your child in tightly fitted booties, that way their feet and toes may develop naturally and move freely. Since babies grow quickly, it’s important that you update their footwear to avoid tightly fitted shoes or socks that may cause poor circulation. Washing and thoroughly drying their feet will also help to maintain proper hygiene. For more tips on how to keep your child’s feet healthy, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for professional care and advice.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How Corns Develop
A corn on the foot may develop as a result of excess friction, and can be uncomfortable. It may develop between the toes, and appears to be a soft growth, often causing difficulty in walking. Additionally, many patients notice they form on top of the toes. This may be common in patients who have hammertoe. Mild relief may be found when the foot is soaked in warm water, as this generally helps to soften the corn. Corn pads can be worn while completing daily activities, and this is beneficial in protecting the affected area against additional friction. If you have corns, and would like advice about how to treat them, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Three Types of Arthritis
There are numerous bones and joints each foot is comprised of. The painful condition that is known as arthritis may occur as a result of a loss of cartilage that is located in the joints. Research has indicated that there are three types of arthritis. A gradual wearing of the cartilage is referred to as osteoarthritis. Patients who are over fifty years old may be affected by this type of arthritis. An autoimmune disease may trigger rheumatoid arthritis, and can affect the surrounding tissues of the joints. Foot arthritis can occur when the joints in the feet become affected, and may cause difficulty when walking. Once the pain has diminished, it may be beneficial to incorporate a gentle stretching regime into your daily routine. If your feet are affected by arthritis, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer you the best treatment options.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
What Type of Running Am I Interested In?
Research has indicated that it may be beneficial to purchase running shoes that are based on the shape of your foot. Additionally, it helps to know what type of running you are planning on doing, as this can aid you in choosing the right style of shoe. Many runners understand the importance of alternating shoes because it helps to prolong the life of the shoes. Feet are typically larger at the end of the day, which is why it’s recommended shoes are tried on at that time. An important quality to look for is a stiff heel, which provides adequate stability for the foot and ankle. If you would like additional information about the qualities to look for in running shoes, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
- Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
- Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
- Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
More...
Possible Causes of Blisters
The most common cause of blisters on the feet is friction. This can happen as a result of wearing shoes and socks that do not fit correctly. Additionally, there may be other circumstances that can cause blisters. These can consist of an allergic reaction to an insect bite, severe sunburn, or medical conditions such as dermatitis. A blister will generally form as the body’s natural reaction to protect skin that has been damaged. It appears as a bubble that is filled with fluid, and will gradually drain when the new skin forms. It may help to wear an elastic bandage over the blister, which can help to protect the area as daily activities are accomplished. If you have a blister on your foot that has become infected, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer treatment solutions.
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 Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. 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 Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Frequent Eye Exams May Help To Prevent Falling
Many people who are over the age of sixty-five are aware of the injuries that may occur from falling. A broken foot may be a common ailment that can happen as a result of falling. Research has indicated that falls are the leading cause of injuries that elderly people endure. There are measures that can be implemented which may help to reduce the risk of falling. These can include removing worn carpets from the living environment, improving the lighting in the house, and installing grab bars in the toilets and shower area. Additionally, seniors may experience dehydration and poor eating habits, which may lead to reduced strength. These factors can help to increase the risk of falling. It may be beneficial to have frequent eye exams performed. This may help to prevent tripping over objects which may not have been seen. If you would like more information about how falling can affect the feet, please consult 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 Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. 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 Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Examples of Foot Exercises and Why They Matter
To avoid dealing with issues such as foot and ankle pain, muscle soreness, and to improve the overall health of your feet, it is recommended that you perform foot exercises. When you perform exercises designed for the feet, you help to strengthen the foot muscles, which may provide better support, stability, and protection. One simple exercise you can do is called the three-step “toe raise, point, and curl.” Imagine you’re making little waves with your toes when trying out this exercise. Another exercise is called the “toe splay,” where you practice by spreading all of your toes. Lastly, you can try “toe extensions” which is done by grabbing your toes with your fingers and gently pulling them backwards. If you are concerned with the health of your feet, or would like information about additional stretches, we recommend that you consult with a podiatrist.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Before you start dancing...
