A common cause of cracked heels often begins with dry skin. As this progresses, the skin on the outer edges of the heel may bleed, causing pain and discomfort. This can happen as a result of environment, genetics, and medical conditions that can include diabetes and thyroid concerns. It may become worse as daily activities are accomplished, and this may be a result of the weight the heel endures while standing and walking. Many patients have found relief when the feet are washed and dried thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer. For mild cases of cracked heels, it may be beneficial to soak the feet in warm water to soften the skin. If you have the beginning symptoms of cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you proper treatment techniques.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. 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
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 York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Patients who have excessively sweaty feet may have a condition that is referred to as plantar hyperhidrosis. It may be caused by genetic factors, in addition to extreme emotional or physical stress. This condition may be treated by wearing inner soles that are absorbent, and the feet may feel better while using powders that can absorb the sweat. Additionally, it may help to change socks frequently, which may be beneficial in preventing an infection. If you are suffering from sweaty feet, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can help you find the right treatment method.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best 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 and ankle needs.
Many women are aware of the numerous aches and pains the body may experience throughout pregnancy. A common area for pain to occur is in the feet. This may be caused by the additional weight that builds during pregnancy, which may affect the arch, causing it to either disappear in the feet, or become extremely low. The feet may roll inward as a result of flat feet, and this may cause significant pain. Relief may be found when appropriate shoes are worn, and it may help to wear custom orthotics. Another common ailment that many pregnant women experience is swollen feet. This happens as a result of increased fluids and blood volume. To lessen the swelling, it may help to avoid foods that have elevated levels of salt, elevate the legs as often as possible, and wear shoes that fit correctly. If you have any questions about how pregnancy can affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
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 and ankle needs.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
When babies are born, their feet are generally soft and flexible. Research has shown the feet may become stronger when walking is done barefoot while indoors. This may help to strengthen the overall foot as the toes grasp the floor for balance. When the first pair of shoes are purchased, it is helpful that the shoes are made of lightweight and breathable materials. Additionally, there needs to be adequate room at the top of the shoes so the toes can move freely. This may help to prevent ingrown toenails from developing. Good foot hygiene begins with teaching your child how to properly wash and dry their feet, in addition to helping them to stretch their feet. If you would like more information about how to care for children’s feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
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.
Richard DiMario, DPM - Default