April 2020

Cracked heels can be an uncomfortable foot condition. This ailment is defined as deep cracks, or fissures in the skin of the heel of the foot, and in severe cases, may cause bleeding or an infection. They can gradually develop as a result of wearing shoes that have an open back, or from medical conditions that can include eczema or psoriasis. Patients who live in dry and cold climates may frequently experience cracked heels, and it is beneficial to begin proper treatment as soon as you notice any irregularities. Treatment can consist of washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer. Additionally, it may be beneficial to stay as hydrated as possible by drinking adequate amounts of water on a daily basis. If you are experiencing cracked heels for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can help you go over proper treatment choices.

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 CyFair Family Foot Care. 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 office located in Cypress, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flip flops have become a popular type of shoe to wear during the warmer months of the year. They are easy to wear, and are designed in a variety of colors and materials. Many people choose to wear flip flops despite the foot conditions they may cause. These can consist of pain in the heel and arch areas, which may be a result of a lack of support the thin soles generally provide. Additionally, the toes are exposed, and many people may stub them, or have heavy objects fall on them. Blisters may form between the toes in a grasping effort to keep the shoes on the feet. If you would like more information about how flip flops affect the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from CyFair Family Foot Care. Our doctors 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 Cypress, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There is a large portion of tissue that expands lengthwise along the sole of the foot. This is referred to as the plantar fascia, and its purpose is to connect the heel to the toes. It may gradually become torn or damaged as a result of wearing shoes that do fit correctly. If this occurs, a condition known as plantar fasciitis may develop. Additionally, it may happen from standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day, or possibly from a sudden injury. There are patients who are born with flat feet or high arches, and the uneven weight distribution may lead to plantar fasciitis. Mild relief may come from elevating the feet frequently during the day, and it generally helps to wear shoes that fit correctly. If your day is affected by pain in your heel, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from CyFair Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

An uncomfortable and unsightly skin rash on the feet may be classified as athlete’s foot. There are common signs of this condition, which can include severe itching between the toes, and on the bottom of the feet. In severe cases, the skin may peel, crack, and blisters may form. It is generally caused by a fungus that comes from warm and moist environments. These often include public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. It is helpful to wear appropriate shoes while frequenting these types of places, as this may help to limit the spread of this fungus. For mild cases, relief may be found when an anti-fungal cream or powder is applied. If you are afflicted with athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can begin the correct treatment for you.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from CyFair Family Foot Care.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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