Cracked heels are a common foot problem that can cause discomfort and pain. One of the main causes is pressure on the feet, especially from prolonged standing or walking, which can lead to the skin thickening and cracking. Wearing improper footwear is another significant factor, as shoes that do not provide proper support or fit can increase friction on the heels, contributing to dryness and cracking. Obesity can also play a role, as excess weight places additional stress on the feet, causing the skin to stretch and crack more easily. As people age, the skin loses moisture and elasticity, making the heels more prone to dryness and cracks. To prevent cracked heels, it is important to wear well-fitting shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning. Regular moisturizing and maintaining a healthy weight can also help keep the feet smooth and prevent cracking. Cracked heels can be painful. If you have developed this condition, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can prescribe medication for effective relief and treatment.
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 Crystal Lake Foot & Ankle Center. 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 office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The human foot is a complex structure made up of 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These components work together to provide stability, flexibility, and mobility. The foot is divided into three main sections, which are the forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot. The toes, or phalanges, and the metatarsals form the forefoot, while the midfoot contains the arches and bones that absorb shock. The hindfoot consists of the heel, or calcaneus, and ankle bones, providing support and balance. Muscles and tendons in the foot enable movement, from walking to running, while ligaments help to stabilize the joints. The arches of the foot, formed by the bones and supported by muscles and tendons, play a key role in shock absorption and weight distribution. Proper foot function is essential for overall mobility and posture. A podiatrist can help identify and treat conditions affecting the foot's bones, muscles, or joints. If you have a foot condition or foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and increased risk of other foot and joint problems. The condition can be caused by genetics, injury, or conditions such as obesity or aging. Yoga can be an effective way to relieve the discomfort caused by flat feet. Specific stretches help strengthen the muscles of the feet and lower legs, improving support for the arch. Poses such as downward dog, warrior 1, and tree pose focus on enhancing foot stability and flexibility. Additionally, yoga promotes proper alignment and body awareness, which can reduce the strain on the feet and prevent further complications. Regular yoga practice can improve overall foot strength and flexibility, providing relief and potentially preventing the progression of flat feet. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, which can include specific yoga stretches.
Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Crystal Lake Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
