Cracked heels, medically known as heel fissures, refer to the splitting or fissuring of the skin around the heels. This common foot condition can be painful and unsightly, affecting both the appearance and functionality of the feet. Cracked heels often occur when the skin becomes dry, thickened, and lacking in moisture, leading to the formation of deep cracks or splits. Several risk factors contribute to the development of cracked heels, including prolonged standing or walking, wearing open-back shoes or sandals, and obesity. Additionally, diabetes, aging, and certain medical conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may lead to developing cracked heels. Environmental factors like cold weather and low humidity levels can exacerbate dry skin, making it more prone to cracking. Neglecting proper foot care, such as inadequate moisturizing, can worsen the condition. By understanding the definition and risk factors associated with cracked heels, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent and treat this uncomfortable foot ailment. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist sooner rather than later who can provide effective relief methods, which may include prescribed medication.

Dry, cracked heels are more than a cosmetic inconvenience. For many people, they are uncomfortable, deep, painful, and may even bleed. If you suffer from cracked heels, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes

• Prolonged standing

• Wearing open-back shoes

• Wearing shoes that don’t cushion the heels

• Living in a cold or dry climate

• Taking long, hot showers

• Not moisturizing the heels

• Eczema

• Psoriasis

• Palmoplantar keratoderma

• Juvenile plantar dermatosis

Treatments

• Soaking the feet

• Exfoliating with a pumice stone

• Moisturizing the heels

• Wearing closed-back shoes that cushion heels

• Avoiding prolonged standing 

• Taking warm, rather than hot, showers

• Treating underlying skin conditions 

While milder cases of cracked heels can be treated at home, some patients present with deep, painful, bleeding heel fissures that are at risk of becoming infected and may require medical care. Additionally, patients with diabetes or any other conditions that affect the immune system should be monitored by a chiropodist. 

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

Proper foot care is crucial for individuals managing diabetes. Maintaining good hygiene by washing and drying feet daily helps prevent infections. Regular foot exams are essential for checking for cuts, blisters, or other abnormalities. Monitoring blood glucose levels consistently aids in effective diabetes management and reduces the risk of foot-related issues. Diabetic neuropathy and poor circulation can lead to foot problems such as ulcers or infections, necessitating immediate attention. Chiropodists specialize in foot care and can offer valuable assistance. They provide guidance on proper footwear, offer preventive measures, and promptly treat any foot ailments. Chiropodists conduct comprehensive foot exams, identifying potential problems early on. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a chiropodist for specialized care to mitigate risks and ensure optimal foot health.

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including: 

• Poor circulation

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers

• Infection 

• Corns and calluses

• Dry, cracked skin

• Nail disorders 

• Hammertoes 

• Bunions

• Charcot foot

If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any: 

• Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds

• Bruising or discoloration 

• Swelling

• Rash

• Foul odor

• Nail changes 

• Hair loss 

• Warmth and inflammation

• Deformities 

• Lower limb pain

• Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)

If you detect anything unusual, seek the care of a chiropodist as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout in the feet can be excruciating, often characterized by sudden, intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint, commonly the big toe. It is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to inflammation and severe discomfort. Gout typically occurs when the body produces excessive uric acid or has difficulty eliminating it, resulting in high levels in the blood. Factors such as diet, genetics, obesity, and certain medications can contribute to gout flare-ups. Treatment options for gout include medications to reduce inflammation and uric acid levels, lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, and weight and pain management strategies. A chiropodist can assist by providing education on gout management, evaluating foot health, recommending appropriate footwear, and offering interventions to alleviate pain and improve joint function, contributing to better overall foot health and quality of life. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can help you with management techniques.

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that can affect anyone. Please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Gout?

Gout is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. This type of arthritis is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid crystallizes in a joint, often the joint of the big toe, it can bring about a gout attack. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of gout include: 

• Sudden and severe pain

• Swelling

• Redness

• Warmth 

• Joint stiffness

• Joint deformity

Diagnosis

A chiropodist will ask questions about your personal and family medical history, followed by an examination of the affected joint. Laboratory tests and x-rays are sometimes ordered to determine if the inflammation is caused by something other than gout. A sample of fluid taken from your joint can show whether it contains uric acid. 

Treatment

Prescription medications or injections are used to treat the pain, swelling, and inflammation. Patients with chronic gout can also use behavioral modifications such as diet, exercise, and decreased intake of alcohol to help minimize the frequency of gout attacks. Foods and beverages that are high in purines should be avoided since purines are converted in the body to uric acid. If left untreated, this painful condition can leave your joint permanently damaged and swollen.  

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