Cracked heels develop when dry, thick skin around the heel splits under pressure. The soles of the feet do not have oil glands, which makes the skin more likely to lose moisture and become dry. Standing for long periods can add pressure to the heels. Friction from shoes that do not fit properly can also thicken the skin and contribute to cracking. As cracks deepen, the area can become irritated and painful. Some cracks can become severe enough to make standing or walking uncomfortable.

Several factors can increase the chance of developing cracked heels. Aging can reduce skin elasticity, leaving the heel less flexible and more likely to split. Open-back shoes can allow the heel's natural padding to spread outward, placing added stress on dry skin. Exposure to dry air can also remove moisture from the feet. In some patients, severely dry or cracked heels can be related to conditions like psoriasis, athlete's foot, or diabetes. Soreness, redness, and swelling can signal that the skin needs professional attention.

A podiatrist can examine cracked heels and determine how deep the cracks are and whether another foot condition is contributing to the problem. The evaluation can also identify thick callused skin and areas of excess pressure. Treatment can include professional removal of thick skin to reduce strain around the cracks. A podiatrist can also recommend protective padding or appropriate skin treatments based on the condition of the heel. Advice about properly fitting, supportive shoes can help address pressure and friction that contribute to repeated cracking. Patients with diabetes or circulation problems should take cracked skin seriously because foot wounds can lead to complications. If you have symptoms of cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

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 Jason Bell, DPM from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . 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 our office located in Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Working in a restaurant can be demanding on your feet. Long shifts often involve standing, walking, and moving quickly across hard floors. Foot pain may develop when the feet are under constant pressure without enough support. Common symptoms include aching, burning, and tenderness. Pain may affect the heels, balls of the feet, or ankles. Symptoms can become more noticeable near the end of a shift.

Several factors can increase the risk of foot pain in restaurant workers. Standing for many hours can place repeated stress on the feet. Hard flooring can add impact with every step. Shoes that are worn out, poorly fitted, or lacking support may also contribute. A higher risk can occur when workers choose footwear based mainly on appearance instead of function. Existing foot conditions can make discomfort worse during long shifts.

Choosing the right restaurant work shoes can often make a meaningful difference daily. Look for shoes with dependable arch support and comfortable cushioning. A secure fit can help reduce unnecessary movement inside the shoe. Slip-resistant soles are especially important because restaurant floors may become wet or greasy. Shoes should also provide enough room for the toes and protection from common workplace hazards. Additionally, lightweight, breathable materials can improve comfort during extended shifts.

When foot pain continues, a podiatrist can examine the feet and determine what may be causing the problem. The evaluation may include checking your walking pattern, footwear, and areas of tenderness. Depending on the findings, treatment may include wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or activity changes. A podiatrist can also identify conditions that require additional care. If you have foot pain while working in the restaurant industry, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, and guidance on additional tips on the correct shoes to wear for your workday.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Jason Bell, DPM from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet and ankles happen when extra fluid collects in tissues around the lower legs. Mild swelling may develop after a long day, but persistent or sudden swelling deserves attention. Common symptoms include puffiness, tight skin, and shoes that feel unusually snug. Swelling can affect one foot or both feet. The location, timing, and severity can help identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate care.

Standing for long periods is a common cause because gravity encourages fluid to collect in the lower legs. A high-sodium diet may also contribute because excess sodium can cause the body to retain water. Pregnancy can increase swelling as hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus affect circulation. Obesity also may place extra stress on the veins and joints. Risk factors include prolonged standing, frequent salty foods, and excess weight.

A podiatrist begins by reviewing symptoms, health history, and activity level. The feet and ankles are examined for tenderness, skin changes, and circulation concerns. Depending on the findings, additional testing may be recommended to identify the cause. Treatment may include reducing sodium, elevating the legs, or using compression when appropriate. The podiatrist also treats related foot problems that may increase discomfort.

Getting the cause of swollen feet and ankles identified can help prevent the problem from becoming a lasting concern. Mild swelling linked to standing may improve with rest and elevation, while swelling related to pregnancy or weight may require closer monitoring. Sudden swelling, severe pain, or breathing difficulty requires prompt medical attention. A podiatrist can help determine whether your symptoms are related to a foot condition or another concern during your normal daily activities. If you have unexplained swollen feet and ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Jason Bell, DPM of Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters are small pockets of fluid that form beneath the outer layer of skin. On the feet, they frequently develop when repeated friction damages the skin. Shoes that rub against the heel or toes can create enough friction to cause a blister. Heat, burns, or certain skin reactions can also lead to blister formation. Most blisters contain clear fluid, although some contain blood after a stronger injury. A blister can feel tender or painful, especially when pressure from a shoe repeatedly irritates the affected area.

Foot blisters can vary in size and appearance. The skin around a blister can become red and sore. A blister can break open, leaving the sensitive skin underneath exposed. This can increase the risk of infection. Signs of infection include increasing pain, redness, or swelling. Pus can also develop in an infected blister. People with diabetes need to pay particular attention to blisters on their feet because reduced sensation can make them harder to notice. Problems with blood flow can also interfere with healing. Repeated blisters can indicate that pressure or friction is affecting the same area of the foot.

A podiatrist can examine a painful blister and determine whether infection or another foot problem is present. The evaluation can also identify pressure points and areas where shoes are repeatedly rubbing against the skin. A podiatrist can recommend ways to reduce pressure and protect the affected area while it heals. Care can also address foot structure or movement patterns that contribute to repeated friction. Blisters that are very painful, keep returning, or show signs of infection deserve prompt evaluation. Patients with diabetes should be especially careful about changes in the skin of their feet. If you have developed foot blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Jason Bell, DPM of Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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