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Cracked heels can cause discomfort and even pain, if left untreated. They often result from dry skin that lacks proper moisture, leading to roughness and splitting. When moisturizer is not used regularly, the skin becomes less elastic and more prone to damage. Hard skin buildup or calluses around the heel can also increase pressure and deepen cracks. Irritation from wearing poorly fitting footwear may worsen the condition, creating painful fissures. A podiatrist can help by safely removing thickened skin, recommending appropriate creams, and offering advice on supportive shoes to prevent recurrence. Cracked heels can be painful. If you see the beginning signs of this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide treatment, which may include prescribed medication for relief. 

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 Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. 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 York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There are fifty-two bones in the feet which constitute approximately one quarter of the bones in the body. People who choose to pursue a career in podiatric medicine will learn how to treat disorders, injuries, and diseases of the feet. Some of these conditions can include hammertoes, bunions, heel spurs, and foot ulcers. The education generally consists of four years of study at a podiatric medical school, preceded by earning a bachelor's degree. A residency is then begun which can last two to four years. People who have become a DPM, which is an abbreviation for doctor of podiatric medicine, can choose to work in a private practice, or treat patients in a hospital environment. If you are contemplating a career in podiatry, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to determine if this is the right career choice for you.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the body, forming crystals in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. It can cause sudden, intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area, often making walking or standing difficult. Causes include high purine foods, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain medications. Risk factors involve family history, age, and chronic health conditions such as kidney disease. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout, provide treatments to relieve pain and inflammation, and recommend lifestyle modifications to reduce flare ups. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose gout, and offer effective relief and management tips.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blisters develop on the feet when the outer layer of skin separates from the layers beneath and fluid fills the space, often as a result of friction. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause repetitive rubbing. Moisture from sweat can worsen friction, making blister formation more likely. Socks that bunch or trap moisture also increase the risk. Beyond footwear, increased activity like running or long periods of walking places additional pressure on the feet and may lead to blister formation. Fungal or bacterial infections, such as athlete’s foot or impetigo, can also trigger blistering. Blisters should not be intentionally popped, as this increases the risk of infection. A podiatrist can examine the cause, relieve discomfort, and provide guidance to prevent recurrence. If you have painful blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for safe and sterile treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.