Having dry, cracked skin on your feet can interfere with your plans to wear beautiful, strappy sandals to your evening event. Cracked feet are not just unsightly though, deep fissures and cracks can make walking and standing painful, sometimes unbearable. Furthermore, germs can enter these breaks in the skin and cause infections. There are different things that can cause cracked heels. Dry skin is commonly the culprit of cracks in heels and occurs because the skin loses too much oil and water. This condition often shows up in dry, cold weather. The use of furnaces and air conditioners, bathing in hot water, using harsh soaps, aging, having skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema, or physical conditions, like hyperthyroidism or diabetes, can all contribute to dry skin. Another reason for cracked heels might be putting excessive pressure on your feet. This can include prolonged standing, being overweight, and wearing shoes that have open backs and do not protect the pad of the fat under the feet. The feet expand toward the sides, which can result in splitting of hard, dry skin there. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the feet. It thrives in moist, warm areas and the feet are a perfect host for this. This condition can cause peeling, flaking, and cracked skin on the sides of the feet and between your toes. If there is an infection, symptoms can worsen to stinging, burning, blisters, red skin, and itching. Spending too much time in the sun and getting sunburnt can be yet another reason for dry, cracked heels. Washing and drying your feet well, using moisturizer daily, wearing shoes made of material that breathes and that fit properly, controlling excessive sweating, and tending to secondary conditions may all help. If you are not able to keep your dry, cracked heels under control, or if signs of infection are present, consult with a podiatrist who can help you with treatment options that have a greater chance of controlling this annoying condition.

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 Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . 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 offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The heel of the foot may be affected when there are abnormalities of the skin, nerves, and bones. The foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis is common, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. Existing medical conditions that include peripheral vascular disease or arthritis can produce heel pain, in addition to Sever’s disease which affects children and young teenagers. Additionally, many people have heel spurs that are diagnosed as small bones that grow under the heel. These can develop from obesity or from wearing shoes that do not fit properly. Patients who have Achilles tendonitis may have heel pain. The Achilles tendon is found in the calf, and connects the heel to the calf muscles. If it becomes inflamed from an injury, it may result in severe heel pain. Frequently practicing high-impact physical exercise may lead to heel pain, and relief may be found when the activity is temporarily stopped. There are various ways to treat heel pain, and it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There are 26 bones in each foot, accompanied by several joints, tendons, muscles, and ligaments. The feet comprise 25% of all the bones in the body, and it is important to practice everyday foot care that can benefit the entire body. The feet can be likened to a machine, and the muscles and joints can represent pulleys and levers that can move side to side and up and down. This is instrumental in walking, running, and completing everyday activities, and many people have considered the feet to be a “work of art." As the aging process occurs, the feet may start to wear and tear, and uncomfortable foot conditions may develop. Dry skin can possibly be reduced when a good moisturizer is used on them daily. Additionally, the chances of getting athlete’s foot and toenail fungus may decrease when appropriate shoes are worn in public swimming pool and locker room areas. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, and this may help to prevent hammertoe and bunions from developing. Additionally, the feet will feel good at the end of the day when they are soaked in warm water and scented oil. For more information about everyday foot care tips, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with answers to any questions you may have.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s disease is an affliction of the foot that can threaten your child’s health, so it is important to be fully aware of what this condition is. Primarily affecting children, Sever’s disease occurs when excessive strain is placed on the growth plate of a child’s heel. The condition can produce pain in the heel. A child is most susceptible to developing Sever’s disease during the onset of a growth spurt. Sever’s disease in children has an interesting link to sports and physical activities that parents should be aware of. Playing high-impact sports puts children at an increased risk of developing Sever’s disease because it can place extra strain on the growth plate of the heel. Specifically, soccer, basketball, track, and gymnastics are all common sports that can put children at an increased risk. Additionally, physical activities and other sports that include children engaging in a lot of running or jumping can make the development of Sever’s disease more likely. It is therefore no surprise that cases of Sever’s disease are usually seen prominently at the beginning of sports seasons. If your child is engaged in a sport or some kind of comparable physical activity, then consider contacting a podiatrist who can help you learn how to prevent or treat Sever’s disease. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

While toe injuries are usually not serious, they can seriously impede the progress of an athlete. If you participate in sports, it is critical that you wear the right shoes for the sport that you participate in. Watch for toe fractures by tending to the severity of the pain felt and possible swelling, looking for deformities of the toe or toenail and other possible wounds. If a toe is sprained and not broken, it can be buddy taped to the toe next to it to reduce pain and speed recovery. Doing some basic motion exercises might also help with blood flow, and reduce pain and stiffness. Toe injuries left untreated or unaddressed for too long could lead to stiffness, arthritis, or permanent pain long-term. Toe injuries sustained during sports that involve fractures or do not heal after resting for a period of time should be seen by a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and guidance in treatment. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Of the many afflictions that can affect the feet, neuropathy is perhaps the most insidious and deceptive. Neuropathy can occur in the feet when the nerves are so badly damaged you might not feel pain when something is wrong with your foot and you may also feel that something is causing pain when nothing is. This nerve damage can occur from an injury, illness, infection, or other cause. Any range of symptoms can be felt because there is a spectrum of different nerves that may be affected. However, there are some self-care tricks that you can utilize for your neuropathy if it is not very severe. For example, you might try soaking your feet in a foot bath filled with chamomile or nettle leaves. These leaves are rich in antioxidants and aid in the pain relief of muscles and joints. It is beneficial to soak in this foot bath for approximately 30 minutes. Additionally, you might try giving yourself a massage or asking a friend to massage the affected areas. The purpose is to promote blood circulation. Lastly, you might consider applying an ice pack to the affected area for short intervals of time about twice a day. These are just some of the many different self-care tricks you might use for your neuropathy. It is always best, however, to consult a podiatrist about your condition. 

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet is undoubtedly an uncomfortable and unpleasant condition that can affect many people. While pregnant women and those who suffer from diabetes are famously prone to suffering from swollen feet, runners  may experience this condition. Runners’ feet may swell both during and after runs for a number of reasons. First, tight and restrictive running shoes can contribute to swelling. Since ill-fitting shoes often squeeze the toes and heels, muscles in the feet become overwhelmed in trying to maintain balance while running, resulting in swelling. Be sure to select the right pair of comfortable running shoes that match your foot type to avoid this pitfall. Additionally, runners’ feet may swell up if they are simply running with poor technique. For example, if a runner lands on their heels instead of the balls of their feet during their runs, they can essentially place more pressure on the bottoms of their feet, which can lead to foot swelling. If you find yourself suffering from swollen feet after runs, you might try applying ice to your feet to reduce the swelling or even elevating your feet. A podiatrist may be able to help you manage this condition and help you mitigate its effects.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A deformity affecting the second, third, or fourth toe can be referred to as hammertoe. This condition causes one or more of these toes to bend downward at the middle joint. Hammertoe can develop from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely, which often includes high heels. In some cases, the affected toes can be manipulated into their normal position as long as they are somewhat flexible. Surgery may be a necessary treatment option for less flexible joints and this often results in permanent straightening. Many patients have to purchase shoes that can accommodate their deformed toes. Corns and calluses can form on top of the joints as the toes rub against the top of the shoe. Some patients also experience pain from calluses that form on the sole of the foot. This can happen due to the chronic stress placed on the foot from the deformed toe. Hammertoe is a foot condition that is treated by a podiatrist and it is strongly suggested that you consult with this type of doctor if you are affected by this ailment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.