Cracked heels can result from a combination of external and medical causes. External factors such as walking barefoot on hard surfaces, prolonged standing, or wearing open-back shoes can increase pressure on the heels, leading to dry, thickened skin that cracks. Environmental conditions, like cold weather and low humidity, can also contribute to dryness and skin breakdown. Medical conditions like diabetes, eczema, and psoriasis often cause dryness and inflammation, making the skin more vulnerable to cracks. Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, can worsen the problem by causing peeling and irritation. Additionally, poor circulation, common in individuals with certain health conditions, can also slow the healing process. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM from Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist 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 North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain in children can result from overuse, wearing improper footwear, or underlying conditions affecting the feet, toes, or ankles. One of the most common causes of foot pain in children is Sever’s disease, medically known as calcaneal apophysitis, which occurs when repeated stress on the heel’s growth plate leads to inflammation. This condition often affects children ages eight to 14 involved in running or jumping sports like soccer or basketball. Another cause of childhood foot pain is Achilles tendonitis. This develops when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed after increased activity levels, leading to heel pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Foot fractures are another concern, particularly for children participating in high-impact sports. Fractures can cause intense pain, bruising, and an inability to bear weight. If left untreated, any of these conditions may worsen and interfere with your child’s daily activities. If your child complains of foot pain, especially after activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM of Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Foot ulcers are open sores, commonly seen in patients with diabetes, that can lead to severe complications if not promptly addressed. Among the most serious side effects of diabetic foot ulcers is gangrene, a dangerous condition where foot or toe tissue dies due to insufficient blood flow or infection. Gangrene usually begins with symptoms like skin discoloration, swelling, numbness, severe pain, or an unpleasant-smelling discharge. When left untreated, gangrene may rapidly worsen, requiring antibiotics or emergency surgery, such as removal of damaged tissue or even loss of toes, the foot, or part of the ankle. Patients with conditions that impair circulation, such as peripheral artery disease or diabetes, are particularly vulnerable to gangrene following foot ulcers. A podiatrist plays an important role in preventing these severe outcomes by assessing circulation, identifying infections early, and providing appropriate wound care or surgery if necessary. If you have foot ulcers from diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and regular foot care.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM from Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.