Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heel becomes dry, thick, and unable to stretch, which leads to splitting and discomfort. Vitamin deficiencies can play a major role. Vitamin E supports skin repair and moisture, vitamin C promotes collagen production for strong healthy skin, and B vitamins help maintain proper cell growth and prevent dryness. When any of these are low, the skin is more likely to break down. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of your cracked heels, remove thick skin safely, recommend moisturizers, and guide you on proper nutrition and foot care. If cracked heels are causing pain or embarrassment, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and lasting relief, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. 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 Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pregnancy brings remarkable changes, and the feet often feel these shifts long before anything else. Extra weight, fluid retention, and hormonal changes can lead to swelling, soreness, and a wider foot shape. Some people notice that their arches feel flatter or that their shoes no longer offer the same support. These changes can also increase discomfort in the heels, ankles, and the balls of the feet. Simple steps like elevating the legs, choosing supportive footwear, and stretching gently can ease many symptoms, yet persistent pain should not be overlooked. A podiatrist can evaluate changes in gait, provide guidance on safe support options, and help reduce stress on the feet throughout pregnancy. If foot pain is interfering with daily comfort or mobility during this time, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for appropriate care.

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 David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. 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?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, often due to improper trimming, tight footwear, trauma, or inherited nail shape. They may look red, swollen, or curved into the skin. As inflammation increases, the area can become warm and tender. Many people describe a sharp or throbbing pain when walking or even when light pressure touches the toe. In some cases, drainage or infection can develop. The big toe is the most commonly affected because it endures the greatest pressure inside shoes. A podiatrist can start by examining the toe to determine the severity and confirm whether infection is present. Treatments may include gentle removal of the offending nail edge, relief of trapped pressure, guidance on proper nail care, or a minor procedure to prevent the ingrown side from returning. Early care reduces discomfort and supports faster healing. If you notice persistent pain, redness, or swelling around a toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact David Reynolds, DPM of First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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