The medical condition that is known as cracked heels can often cause discomfort, and in severe cases, it may be unsightly. It occurs when the skin splits, forming cracks. Deep cracks are known as fissures. Common reasons for this to occur can include standing for extended periods of time throughout the day, or wearing shoes that have an open back. Additionally, specific medical conditions can cause this condition, including psoriasis, diabetes, and circulation issues. Patients who are overweight may notice cracked heels developing, and this may be a result of the added weight that the feet endure. Relief may be found when shoes that have a back are worn, and it can help to soak the feet in warm water. It is beneficial to exfoliate the heels, followed by applying a good moisturizer. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. 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 Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The medical condition that is known as Sever’s disease generally affects teenaged children. In active teenagers, tendons and muscles may pull on the growth plate in the heel, and this may cause severe pain and discomfort. Mild relief may be found when the activity that caused the ailment ceases and when specific stretches are frequently performed. In severe cases, it may be beneficial to use an elastic wrap on the affected foot, and this may help to reduce existing swelling. If you notice your child is limping, it is strongly recommended that you confer with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor 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 office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar warts are small growths on the soles of the feet caused by the human papillomavirus entering through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin. They often develop in weight bearing areas like the heel or ball of the foot, making them painful when walking or standing. Risk factors include walking barefoot in public areas such as around pools, showers, and gyms, having weakened immunity, and repeated foot trauma. Symptoms include rough, grainy skin, hard calluses over a spot, and pain when pressure is applied. A podiatrist can provide effective treatments to remove warts and relieve discomfort. Plantar warts can cause tremendous pain, and it can be difficult to complete daily tasks. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Red feet in older adults can signal underlying health issues that need attention. Peripheral artery disease can reduce blood flow, while venous insufficiency causes blood to pool in the legs, both leading to discoloration and swelling. Diabetes may contribute to poor circulation and nerve damage, increasing the risk of infections. Additionally, fungal infections can also cause redness, along with itching, and irritation. Certain medications may trigger changes in skin color as a side effect. A podiatrist can perform a thorough evaluation, provide treatments, and create a care plan to address these issues and prevent complications. If you notice any changes in your feet, including redness, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you an accurate diagnosis and management tips.

If you need your feet checked, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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