Having a vitamin deficiency may be a cause for cracked heels to develop. It can be an unsightly and uncomfortable foot condition. Mildly cracked heels affect the top layer of the skin, and it is generally a painless ailment. Fissures are defined as severely cracked heels that may bleed and become infected. Studies show that a lack of vitamin E may affect the collagen in the skin. This is linked to the drying effect that aging has on the skin and may increase the risk of developing cracked heels. It can be beneficial to add foods, such as sunflower seeds, salmon, and avocado to your diet, which are laden with vitamin E. Patients who do not get adequate amounts of vitamin B-3 in their diet may notice their skin becomes dry and scaly, which may be followed by getting cracked heels. If you have questions about how cracked heels are connected to vitamin deficiencies, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. 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 Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is an affliction of the foot that you might already have heard of, even if you are a novice to the field of podiatry. This is because it is one of the most common foot conditions that can cause patients heel pain or pain in the arch of the foot. It is caused by the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which runs along the sole of the foot. There are many different ways that a medical professional like a podiatrist might advise you to go about treating this condition. One technique that a podiatrist might recommend is gently rolling your foot over a foot roller, cold water bottle, or tennis ball. The point of repeatedly rolling the arch of your foot over one of these objects is to stretch and provide relief to the arch of the foot. If you are someone who is living with plantar fasciitis and you are searching for relief, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for more details.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Mark Isenberg, DPM  from Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

The first place to start when determining the correct shoe size is by measuring your feet. Research has indicated that a large percentage of people worldwide are wearing the wrong shoe size. This often results in developing unwanted foot conditions consisting of corns, calluses, and blisters. To obtain the correct shoe size, it is beneficial to measure your feet at the end of the day when they are at their largest. The majority of shoe stores have a Brannock device which can accurately measure the feet. Conversely, many people choose to measure their feet at home, and this is done by standing on a piece of paper, and tracing the outline of each foot, followed by measuring them. At this point, the measurements can be compared to a size chart, and the correct shoe size can be determined. While in the shoe store, it is beneficial to try on both shoes and walk for a short time in them, which is helpful in ensuring a comfortable fit. If you have questions about how to get your right shoe size, please do not hesitate to consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking. 

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Wearing flip-flops during the warmer months is simple, stylish, and convenient. Despite these fun facts, they can wreak havoc on your feet. Foot pain may gradually develop when flip-flops are frequently worn. Most flip-flops don't have arch support, and shock absorption is minimal. Additionally, they are not sturdy shoes, and the heels are not cushioned. The toes work hard to keep the flip-flops securely on the feet, and hammertoe may be a foot condition that develops as the toes bend to keep the shoe from slipping off. Flip-flops are designed in different styles, and it is suggested to choose sandals that have a back strap. This may help the toes to maintain balance instead of gripping the front of the shoe to stabilize the foot. If you have questions about what type of flip-flops to purchase, please confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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

Elderly foot care can help prevent injuries, falls, and complications from chronic diseases like diabetes. Since muscle tissue on the feet can thin and nerves work less effectively with age, one might not feel if they have cuts, blisters, or sores on their feet. Daily examination of the feet with a mirror is therefore important. Wear well-fitting shoes that provide stability. When going outdoors, wear closed-toe shoes to protect your feet and prevent cuts and scrapes. Keep toenails trimmed by cutting them straight across and not too short to avoid ingrown toenails. To promote good circulation, stop smoking if you smoke, stretch your feet each day, prop them up on a stool or couch when sitting, and wiggle your toes when sitting for long periods. Wash your feet daily, dry them well, and apply a moisturizer. Change socks regularly to prevent fungal infections. If you are a senior and have a problem with your feet or just want to ensure your feet remain in good shape, visit a podiatrist regularly for foot checks.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Having ankle pain is a good indicator that an injury has happened to the ankle bone or the surrounding joints. The ankle is in the perfect position where the foot bones and leg connect. There are three joints in the ankle, and each has a function. These functions include providing stability to hold the body’s weight, moving the body forward while walking or running, and providing shock absorption for daily movements. Common symptoms that can accompany ankle pain is the inability to walk, swelling, and the ankle can have a throbbing or tingling sensation. The pain from an Achilles tendon injury may travel to the ankle and can make it difficult to complete daily activities. Additional reasons why ankle pain occurs include having arthritis, bursitis, edema, or an ankle fracture. Many times, there is a distinctive reason why ankle pain exists, so it is strongly suggested that a podiatrist be consulted who can perform a proper diagnosis and treat your ankle pain.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

During the summer months when many people are concerned about how their feet look in sandals, you might hear talk about a foot condition known as cracked heels. This condition, also known as heel fissures, can occur as a result of dry weather and old age, among other causes. Cracked heels can look quite unsightly. Typically, an individual with this condition will exhibit deep cracks at the heel, with calluses surrounding the affected area that might also crack. In a case of heel fissures, the heel might even change colors, being slightly red. In some cases, a person with cracked heels might even see bleeding at the heel. Obviously, none of these visual symptoms are desirable.  Prevent or cure cracked heels today by making an appointment with a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. 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 Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.