Items filtered by date: November 2019

Research has indicated that cracked heels affect more than fifty percent of the world's population. This condition may be a result of wearing shoes that have an open back, or from standing for long periods of time throughout the day. The skin may lose its elasticity, and can gradually develop deep cracks, which are also known as fissures. It may be beneficial to stretch the Achilles tendon before the day begins. This may help to ease the amount of weight the heels absorb as walking occurs. Patients may find relief when their feet are washed and thoroughly dried, followed by applying a good moisturizer. Additionally, cracked heels may be prevented when shoes are worn that offer adequate support for the heels. If you have any questions about effective remedies for this condition, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. 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 Latham, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has indicated that cracked heels affect more than fifty percent of the world's population. This condition may be a result of wearing shoes that have an open back, or from standing for long periods of time throughout the day. The skin may lose its elasticity, and can gradually develop deep cracks, which are also known as fissures. It may be beneficial to stretch the Achilles tendon before the day begins. This may help to ease the amount of weight the heels absorb as walking occurs. Patients may find relief when their feet are washed and thoroughly dried, followed by applying a good moisturizer. Additionally, cracked heels may be prevented when shoes are worn that offer adequate support for the heels. If you have any questions about effective remedies for this condition, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. 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 Latham, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion typically develops gradually, and is considered to be a deformity. It is defined as a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe. This condition can occur as a result of genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Symptoms that many patients may experience are redness and swelling surrounding the affected area, a burning sensation, or the feeling of numbness. In severe cases, an X-ray may be necessary to perform to help determine how large the bunion is, in addition to observing any existing arthritis. Moderate relief may be found if orthotics are worn, as well as resting the foot. If the bunion is causing extreme pain, surgery may be a viable option for treatment. This can be successful in permanently straightening and realigning the joints and bones. If you have developed a bunion, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can offer treatment options that are correct for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer of Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

The medical term that is known as osteoarthritis may cause bone spurs at the bottom of the big toe, which may lead to the development of a bunion. If you have this type of arthritis, relief may be found when larger size shoes are worn. This may prevent additional pressure from being exerted on the bunion. A common type of arthritis that is referred to as rheumatoid arthritis typically causes inflammation on the ball of the foot. Calluses may develop as a result of the bones pushing against the skin on that part of the foot. An additional form of arthritis, which is known as gout, can affect the big toe, and may come from eating foods that are high in purine levels. Gout attacks may be prevented when healthy eating habits are implemented into the daily routine. If you have arthritis in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Latham, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and may feel aches and pains from performing daily activities. Many types of foot pain can be caused by poor foot structure, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. A common form of pain can be found in the heel, which may be indicative of plantar fasciitis or a heel spur. The condition that is referred to as flat feet may cause pain in the middle of the foot, where the arch would generally be found. Patients have found moderate relief when custom-made insoles are worn, which may provide the support that is needed. Bunions may cause pain as a result of inflammation, and can become irritated as the affected part of the foot rubs against the shoe. If you experience any discomfort in your feet, it is strongly advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine the cause and offer treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. 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 Latham, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you are experiencing pain on the ball of the foot, it may be indicative of a condition that is referred to as Morton’s neuroma. It is typically caused by irritation that happens to a nerve connected to a toe. It can become thickened, and will most often occur between the second and third toes. It may be common among patients who have flat feet, high arches, or conditions that can include bunions and hammertoes. People who enjoy sporting activities that involve running may also be susceptible to developing this condition. Additionally, skiers or ballerinas may be prone to getting Morton’s neuroma as a result of wearing shoes that put pressure on the ball of the foot. Symptoms that are often associated with this ailment can include a numbing and tingling sensation, and pain or difficulty walking. If you suffer from this condition, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer of Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 our office located in Latham, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and may feel aches and pains from performing daily activities. Many types of foot pain can be caused by poor foot structure, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. A common form of pain can be found in the heel, which may be indicative of plantar fasciitis or a heel spur. The condition that is referred to as flat feet may cause pain in the middle of the foot, where the arch would generally be found. Patients have found moderate relief when custom-made insoles are worn, which may provide the support that is needed. Bunions may cause pain as a result of inflammation, and can become irritated as the affected part of the foot rubs against the shoe. If you experience any discomfort in your feet, it is strongly advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine the cause and offer treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. 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 Latham, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.