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Cracked heels are generally a common condition among those who typically wear open footwear. Besides having a displeasing appearance, cracked heels can also be very uncomfortable and painful for patients who are afflicted with this ailment. Common causes that lead to the development of cracked heels may include standing for the majority of the day, increased pressure on the heels due to obesity, and certain skin conditions such as eczema or athlete’s foot. Along with the pain they may cause, cracked heels that are more severe can also lead to bleeding. It is said one way to help begin the process of healing cracked heels is by drinking plenty of water and remaining hydrated. Applying moisturizers, petroleum jelly, healing cream, and moisturizing socks may also help to reduce the dryness in your heels. Patients have also found soaking their feet, followed by using a pumice stone as an exfoliant, is helpful in treating cracked heels. For more advice on how to best treat cracked heels, please consult with a podiatrist for treatment plans and professional care.

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 Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns, typically found on the toes, side, and bottom of the feet, can be incredibly uncomfortable and often painful. Simple everyday activities, such as walking, can become difficult if corns are left untreated. Corns are hardened layers of the skin, often caused by too much friction and the use of improper footwear. They can feel very sensitive when touched, and often become irritated when shoes are worn. To help lessen the pain of a corn, it’s advised that you wear a cushion or pad over your corn to stop any further friction. It is also suggested to soak the feet in warm water, and filing at the corn may help to decrease its size. In order to safely treat your corn, it is recommended to consult with a podiatrist for professional care.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The central nervous system is connected by the peripheral nerves to the nerves in the body. These nerves deliver physical sensations to the brain. The medical condition that is referred to as peripheral neuropathy can occur if the nerves become damaged or destroyed. This may happen as a result of genetic traits, an injury, or if there is an existing infection. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this disorder can consist of a tingling sensation in the hands and feet, excessive sweating, and the feet may feel heavy. A proper diagnosis is generally performed by a podiatrist, which can help to determine the extent of the ailment. This can often include having a blood test, CT scan, or MRI taken. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Arthritis can affect a person in many different ways. One form of inflammatory arthritis is known as gout, which may often cause issues for the toes, specifically the big toe. Gout typically develops due to a buildup of uric acid when the body tries to break down purines found in foods. Dietary changes may be effective in reducing purine levels as well as the likelihood of a gout flare up. Drinking a lot of water may help with the swelling and inflammation that is often caused by gout. Another method of reducing gout-related inflammation, is by icing the affected joints and keeping the feet elevated. As far as reducing your purine levels, it’s advised that you avoid meats and fish such as bacon, turkey, scallops, and muscles, to name a few. For more advice on how to manage your gout, we recommend that you consult with a podiatrist for professional care.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

It is fairly common for a person to have broken their pinky toe. This can happen as a result of a heavy object falling on top of it, or possibly from stubbing it against a piece of furniture. When the pinky toe is broken, you may still be able to walk on it, however it can produce severe pain and discomfort. An effective treatment for a broken pinky toe may be referred to as buddy taping. This is done by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it. This procedure may help to support the broken toe as the healing process takes place. Severe fractures may produce a fever, and it may be necessary to perform surgery or to take pain medication. If you have broken your toe, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat a broken toe. 

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The medical condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma is defined as swelling around the nerves that pass between the bones in the foot. It can cause pain and discomfort at the ball of the foot, as well as a burning or numbing sensation in the toes. It can develop as a result of a muscular disorder, in addition to participating in certain sporting activities. Wearing high heels may cause this condition to develop, and this can be due to minimal room for the toes to move freely in. Effective treatments may consist of wearing custom made orthotics, and performing specific exercises and stretches that may help in the healing process. If you have any of these symptoms, it is advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment techniques.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

People who enjoy running are generally familiar with the importance of properly training, which often includes gradually increasing mileage and speed. This may be beneficial in reducing the risk of getting a stress fracture. This type of injury is known as a hairline fracture, and develops over time. It occurs when the bones are stressed from frequent exercise, and are unable to heal properly. An X-ray is typically taken to determine the extent of the stress fracture, followed by implementing recovery methods. These can consist of wearing a protective boot for approximately six weeks, or having surgery performed that may be necessary to heal severe stress fractures. If you have endured this type of injury, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can guide you toward treatment options that are correct for you.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A painful foot injury can take the joy out of running. It can happen suddenly, or develop gradually, and may never completely disappear. There are methods that may help to prevent running injuries from occurring. These can consist of performing stretches and exercises that can keep the body strong. Research has indicated it is beneficial to have strong glute muscles, and this a critical factor in maintaining strength and power while running. Additionally, muscle soreness may be diminished when foam rolling is implemented, and this may also help to improve range of motion. When running shoes are purchased, it is important to choose shoes that fit correctly, and support your body as the miles are increased. If you would like to learn about additional stretches that can help to prevent running injuries, please consult with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.