Items filtered by date: October 2023

Heel fissures, also known as cracked heels, are a prevalent foot issue among adults, and they can be both painful and unsightly. These fissures appear as dry, flaky skin, and are often accompanied by deep, painful cracks on the heels. Several factors contribute to the development of heel fissures. One of the primary culprits is dry skin, typically caused by environmental conditions, such as low humidity or excessive heat, which can lead to the loss of natural skin moisture. Walking barefoot, particularly on hard surfaces, can also increase the risk of developing heel fissures. Additionally, underlying health conditions, like diabetes or thyroid disorders, can affect skin health, making individuals more susceptible to these conditions. If heel fissures become severe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to rule out underlying health issues, in addition to receiving appropriate treatment options. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. 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 Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot orthotics, whether over-the-counter or custom-made, are specialized insoles designed to address various foot and gait-related issues. They work by correcting imbalances in foot structure and gait, improving posture, and relieving pain through support and pressure redistribution. Custom orthotics, which are molded to the individual's foot shape, offer a personalized fit ideal for specific alignment problems, pathologies, or deformities. They aid in healing by reducing strain on injured areas and can prevent conditions like stress fractures, tendonitis, and tendon rupture. Orthotics also provide cushioning, shock absorption, and enhanced stability, thereby reducing the risk of falls. Athletes can benefit from custom foot orthotics by improving foot support, limiting shock, and reducing tendon stress. This can enhance performance while minimizing injury risk. Over-the-counter insoles may offer basic comfort but lack the effectiveness of custom orthotics. This makes custom orthotics the preferred choice for those with unique foot-related needs. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to ensure the proper fit and function of orthotics tailored to your individual foot needs.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Pickleball, a popular sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, offers a range of benefits while posing some potential foot concerns. On the plus side, pickleball provides an excellent cardiovascular workout, promoting heart health and weight management. It is a low-impact sport, reducing stress on joints, and making it suitable for various age groups. Enhanced agility, balance, and improved hand-eye coordination are additional perks. However, repetitive lateral movements and sudden directional changes may lead to foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. The quick, short sprints involved can strain calf and ankle muscles. Wearing proper footwear and stretching before and after playing are vital to minimize risks. Overall, the enjoyment and health advantages derived from playing pickleball can be well balanced with adequate foot care and injury prevention measures. If you would like additional knowledge concerning foot health and pickleball, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Katie Besselman, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Plantar fasciitis is believed to be the most common complaint of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a broad band of tissue on the sole that supports the arch. This inflammation can make your heel hurt, swell, or turn red, particularly when getting out of bed in the morning. The causes of plantar fasciitis are varied, often stemming from factors like foot and calf tightness, weak foot muscles, or undue stress on the arch. Excessive running, wearing poorly fitted shoes, and some work actions can make the condition worse. Treatment focuses on addressing the root causes and reducing inflammation. It may involve wearing shoes with better arch support, changing shoe size, and moderating activities that strain the foot. Stretching and strengthening exercises, like towel curls, may help reduce symptoms. If you have developed plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who specializes in managing this condition. 

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Stress fractures, although often seen as minor injuries, can lead to significant discomfort and prolonged recovery if not addressed properly. Understanding the causes and seeking timely treatment are essential steps toward a smoother healing process. One of the primary causes of these hairline fractures is repetitive stress and overuse, particularly common among athletes and those engaged in high-impact activities. The constant pounding on the bones, such as during running, can weaken them over time, eventually resulting in a fracture. Insufficient rest between activities or abrupt increases in intensity or duration can increase the risk. Identifying stress fracture symptoms is important for early intervention. Pain, localized tenderness, and swelling are common signs, typically worsening with activity and subsiding with rest. Treatment often involves rest, immobilization with a brace or cast, and sometimes crutches are used to reduce weight-bearing. By recognizing the causes and seeking appropriate treatment, individuals can recover from stress fractures more quickly and minimize the risk of recurrence. If you have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and guide you toward the correct treatment options. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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