Cracked heels develop when dry, thickened skin around the heel splits under pressure. The cracks, also called fissures, can range from shallow lines to deep openings. Standing for long periods of time increases pressure on the heel, when skin loses moisture. Shoes that fit poorly can create friction and make the problem worse. Wearing open-back sandals can allow the heel to spread outward, placing extra strain on dry skin. Aging makes skin less flexible. Because the soles lack oil glands, they have less natural protection against dryness. These factors can leave heels rough, uncomfortable, and more likely to crack.

At first, cracked heels may appear as dry patches or thick, hard skin along the heel's edge. Deeper cracks can cause pain while walking or standing. Some patients notice bleeding when the skin splits. Redness, swelling, or drainage can suggest an infection requiring attention. Certain health problems, including diabetes, can increase concern about breaks in the skin. Athlete's foot and psoriasis can contribute to cracking. Hot water and harsh soaps can strip moisture from the skin, adding to the problem. Identifying the cause matters because cracked heels can return when the underlying pressure or skin condition remains.

A podiatrist can examine the heels, assess the depth of the cracks, and look for signs of infection. Treatment can include reducing thick callused skin and applying protective dressings. A podiatrist can recommend suitable moisturizing products to help restore the skin's protective barrier. They can also evaluate shoe fit and suggest cushioned shoes that support the heel. When another skin condition is responsible, treatment can address that cause as well. Follow-up care can help monitor healing and reduce the chance of further cracking. If you have  cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Excess body weight can place pressure on the feet and ankles with each step. Obesity is defined as having a body mass index, or BMI, of 30 or higher. This number is based on height and weight. Research links higher BMI levels with more foot problems. Extra weight can strain joints. This increases the risk of heel pain, arthritis, and tendon irritation. It can also raise the risk of type 2 diabetes, which can affect foot health. Even routine activities can become uncomfortable when the feet must support added pressure.

The effects of excess weight become noticeable when climbing stairs or walking uphill. These movements can place several times your body weight on the ankles. Foot pain may then make staying active more difficult, creating a frustrating cycle. Some patients develop soreness that limits how far they can walk. Others notice stiffness after standing for long periods. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, identify painful areas, and explain how body weight affects movement. This examination helps distinguish weight-related strain from other problems that need attention. Addressing discomfort makes it easier to pursue activity goals safely.

A podiatrist helps patients manage foot pain while working toward better mobility. Treatment options include recommendations for shoes with proper support, custom shoe inserts, and guided stretching. Custom shoe inserts, also called orthotics, help distribute pressure more evenly across the feet. A podiatrist can assess walking patterns and recommend changes to reduce strain. Weight management plays an important role in reducing stress on the ankles and feet. Because pain can interfere with exercise, a treatment plan should consider each patient's comfort and abilities. If you have symptoms of obesity-related foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid forms sharp crystals, they can collect inside a joint and trigger inflammation. Gout commonly affects the big toe, creating pain, swelling, and tenderness. Symptoms may begin quickly, often during the night, and can make walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. A gout attack may improve after several days, but repeated attacks can damage the affected joint if the condition is not managed.

The big toe is especially prone to gout because the joint is cool and receives pressure during standing and walking. These conditions can encourage crystal formation and inflammation. People with a family history of gout may have a higher risk. Other risk factors include obesity, kidney problems, and diets high in purine-rich foods. Alcohol consumption and dehydration may also contribute. Men are more likely to develop gout, while risk increases for women after menopause.

A podiatrist begins by reviewing symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. The podiatrist checks the big toe for swelling, warmth, and restricted movement. Testing may help confirm gout. Treatment can include recommendations to reduce inflammation and protect the joint during an attack. A podiatrist may also discuss footwear, activity changes, and prevention. 

Understanding gout can help you recognize symptoms early and seek care before attacks interfere with daily activities. Prompt treatment may reduce discomfort and help protect the big toe joint from damage. If you have pain, swelling, or redness on your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis, treatment, and guidance on preventing future gout attacks. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Poor circulation happens when blood does not flow effectively to parts of the body. The feet are vulnerable because they are far from the heart. Reduced blood flow can limit the oxygen and nutrients reaching the tissues. Signs can include numbness, tingling, and swelling. The feet can also feel unusually cold or develop changes in skin color. Poor circulation can contribute to aching or cramping in the legs and feet. Wounds can also heal more slowly when the tissues do not receive enough blood.

Several health problems can interfere with circulation. Atherosclerosis occurs when plaque builds up inside arteries, causing them to narrow and harden. When this problem affects the limbs, it is called peripheral artery disease, or PAD. Diabetes can also damage blood vessels and contribute to circulation problems. Blood clots can restrict or completely block blood flow. Smoking can narrow blood vessels and increase plaque buildup. Limited physical activity can also raise the risk of conditions linked to poor circulation. These causes make persistent changes in the feet important to evaluate.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for signs that blood flow is reduced. The evaluation can include checking skin color, temperature, and pulses in the feet. A podiatrist can also look for sores that are healing slowly and changes in the toenails or skin. Tests can help determine whether circulation problems are affecting the lower limbs. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of reduced blood flow. Early evaluation is important because poor circulation can interfere with wound healing and increase the risk of serious foot complications. Regular podiatric care can help protect vulnerable feet and identify concerning changes before they become more severe. If you have symptoms of poor circulation, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Richard DiBacco, DPM of Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.