Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thick, or calloused. This can happen due to prolonged standing or walking, wearing open-back shoes, taking long, hot showers, using harsh soaps, wearing shoes that do not fit properly, and from dry skin in extreme climate conditions. Cracked heels can also be caused by a medical condition, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, a fungal infection, or hypothyroidism. Most cases of cracked heels are not serious. Adults and children can get cracked heels, but this condition is more apt to happen in women than men. Cracked heels can cause discomfort, especially when one is barefoot. In some instances, the cracks can become deep, bloody, and infected. Usually, cracked heels can be prevented by refraining from walking barefoot, soaking and drying the feet thoroughly, and using heel balms or thick moisturizers. However, if your cracked heels are severe or take a long time to heal, see a podiatrist who can evaluate your case and suggest an appropriate treatment plan.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. 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 Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people enjoy wearing flip-flops during the warmer months. Their various colors and exemption of laces can make these types of shoes tempting to slip into. Research has indicated, however, that there may be some drawbacks to wearing flip-flops. Patients who frequently wear them may experience foot and ankle pain, in addition to walking differently. This may be a direct result of the flip-flops having no arch and little to no support. The toes must also work harder to keep these shoes on the feet. Additionally, flip-flop wearers often take shorter steps, and this can cause more stress to the overall body. Heel pain is also a common ailment among flip-flop wearers. Flip-flops generally have a thin sole and are backless, which can lead to the development of cracked heels. If you would like more information about the dangers of wearing flip-flops, please consult a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

An ankle fracture can happen from suddenly twisting your ankle. This can happen from falling, or possibly from stepping off of a curb unexpectedly. The ankle ligaments may be affected, and surgery may be needed for permanent repair. A surgical benefit can consist of putting the bones back together in proper formation for proper healing. When this is done correctly, treatment can begin by using a walker or cast. During ankle surgery, the broken bones will be exposed on the inner and outside of the ankle. Screws and plates may be used to permanently hold the bones together, and  can generally take several weeks to recover. After an appropriate time has passed, it is beneficial to perform specific exercises that can help to strengthen the ankle after surgery. Recovery typically begins with resting the affected ankle on a pillow, and it may help to keep it elevated which can diminish existing swelling. If you have broken your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment options, which may include surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Andrew Katz, DPM of Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

A hammertoe is a common deformity where a toe bends upward at the middle joint and gets stuck in that position. The top of the toe bends forward so it looks like a hammer. As time passes, the joint may get more rigidly bent and it can be painful and possibly lead to difficulty in walking and maintaining balance. Hammertoes can be inherited, with those with flatter feet and longer metatarsals (or middle bones of the feet) being more at risk. They can also be associated with a medical condition, such as diabetes. However, most often hammertoes develop from an imbalance within the toe structure. Usually something that forces extra weight to be put on the forefoot and toes (like tight shoes or high heels) can lead to hammertoes. The small muscles on the bottom of the foot get weaker than the larger muscles on the top of the foot and the toe does not bend or flex. Early detection and conservative treatment can help prevent the need for hammertoe surgery. Such intervention can be as simple as changing footwear to providing extra room for the toes, avoiding narrow, tight, and heeled shoes, using custom orthotics to off-load extra weight and strain towards the forefoot.  If you suffer from a hammertoe, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist to find the best treatment plan. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain is common among people worldwide and it can happen from neglect, improper care, and lack of awareness. A common foot condition known as a bunion can develop from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room in the toe area. Many people wear orthotics which may help to redistribute the weight of the foot and can possibly reduce pain too. Corns are caused by excess friction from wearing shoes and socks that are too tight. Relief may be found when a protective pad is worn over the corn and larger shoes are purchased. The arthritic condition called gout generally causes severe pain and discomfort and results due to excess uric acid in the joints of the big toe. Many people change their diet by eliminating red meat and shellfish which may help to prevent gout attacks. Patients who have been afflicted with plantar warts may be familiar with the pain that this ailment can cause. It is a hardened area of skin that is found on the bottom of the foot and grows inward. It is considered to be contagious and is caused by a fungus. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with the correct treatment methods.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Diabetics who have long battled with high blood sugar levels are top candidates for foot problems that develop because of nerve damage and constricted blood flow to the feet and toes. These conditions often cause numbness that makes it difficult for the diabetic to detect hot and cold sensations, notice sores on their feet, and feel pressure from shoes that are too tight. Practicing foot care is a must for diabetics. Suggested tasks include checking for cuts, sores, wounds that don’t seem to be healing, calluses, corns, and cracks in the skin. These can all develop into ulcers that may cause serious problems, such as gangrene or even amputation, if ignored. Other measures include keeping the feet washed, thoroughly dried, and moisturized daily. Also, groom toenails properly by cutting them, or having them cut, straight across to prevent ingrown toenails that may invite infection. Protect your feet by wearing socks that are clean and dry and try to avoid walking barefoot.  Anyone with diabetes would be wise to make regular visits to a podiatrist, who can evaluate their feet and keep current with necessary treatment options. 

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 Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor 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 Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wounds on the feet can be a common occurrence for much of the population, and they can be a serious concern among the elderly. This can be a result of diminished blood flow in the feet and immediate medical attention may help to avoid potential problems. Effective wound prevention can include moisturizing the feet and drinking plenty of fresh water daily. Additionally, it may help to take a multivitamin that is designed to protect the skin. The skin color may turn when a wound is present, and a clean environment is needed for successful wound healing. This is followed by using a non-adherent dressing and placing a cushioned bandage over the wound. A pressure ulcer is a common type of wound that elderly people may develop. This often happens as a result of pressure that occurs over a bone. If you would like more information about types of foot wounds and how to treat them, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When the heel bone suffers repeated strain or irritation, the body can react by sending extra amounts of calcium to the injury site to protect it. Among the causes are poorly fitting shoes, obesity, arthritis, gait abnormalities, excessive running, and plantar fasciitis. This calcium can build up over time and cause hard, pointy deposits, known as spurs, to develop on the heel bone. Heel spurs can cause pain that may be worse in the morning or more mild and steady throughout the day. Rest or activity can trigger the pain. Heel spurs may occur along with plantar fasciitis, which may cause tenderness and inflammation as well. Not all heel spurs are painful, but those that are can be treated by a podiatrist with a variety of therapies including custom orthotics, physical therapy, cortisol injections, anti-inflammatory medications, or surgery if more conservative methods do not provide relief. 

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

The medical term for fallen arches or flat feet is known as pes planus. It is noticeable when the foot lies flat on the floor, and the arch is absent. Some patients do not have symptoms, or may experience mild pain or achiness in different parts of the leg. Most people are born with flat feet, and the arch generally forms in the teenage years. This condition may develop from genetic reasons, obesity, or possibly from a foot injury. Additionally, a dysfunction of one or more of the muscles in the foot may lead to flat feet. It is beneficial for patients who have flat feet to wear shoes that are supportive, and this may help to prevent future injuries. People who have flat feet are advised to consult with a podiatrist who can offer custom-made orthotics for relief.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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