Cracked heels develop when the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry and begins to split. Shallow cracks can affect only the outer layer of skin and cause little discomfort. Deeper cracks can become painful and sometimes bleed. Dry skin is an important factor because skin that lacks moisture is less flexible and more likely to split under pressure. Aging can contribute because the skin loses moisture more easily as people get older. Athlete’s foot and eczema can also cause dry or irritated skin that increases the chance of heel cracking.

Certain vitamin deficiencies have also been linked with dry, cracked skin. Vitamin E helps protect skin cells and supports healthy skin. Vitamin B-3, also called niacin, helps the body turn food into energy and supports skin health. Severe vitamin B-3 deficiency can cause dry, scaly skin. Vitamin C supports collagen production, which helps give skin structure and strength. A serious vitamin C deficiency can contribute to dry skin and slow wound healing. However, deficiencies of these vitamins are considered rare in developed countries, so cracked heels do not necessarily indicate a nutritional problem.

A podiatrist can examine cracked heels and determine whether another foot or skin problem is contributing to the condition. An evaluation is especially important when cracks are deep, painful, or bleeding. Patients with diabetes or nerve damage should also have cracked heels evaluated because foot wounds can become more serious. A podiatrist can remove thickened skin safely and recommend treatment to protect damaged areas. Care can also address fungal infections or other conditions affecting the skin. Proper treatment can reduce discomfort and help protect the heels from further damage. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

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 Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners 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 Nashville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis causes pain along the bottom of the heel. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes irritated or strained. This tissue supports the arch and helps absorb pressure with every step. Repeated stress can cause small tissue injuries and discomfort. Plantar fasciitis may affect people of many ages, especially those who spend much of the day standing, walking, or participating in activities that place repeated pressure on the feet. Recognizing the condition early can help prevent heel pain from becoming a persistent problem.

One of the most recognizable symptoms of plantar fasciitis is sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning. The discomfort may improve after moving around but can return after sitting or resting for a long time. Pain may also develop after exercise, prolonged walking, or extended periods of standing. Tenderness commonly occurs near the bottom or inner portion of the heel. As symptoms continue, everyday activities may become more difficult, including walking, working, and completing household tasks.

Several risk factors can contribute to plantar fasciitis. Frequent running, walking, and prolonged standing can place additional stress on the plantar fascia. Flat feet, high arches, and certain walking patterns may also affect how pressure is distributed across the foot. Wearing shoes without adequate support can increase strain, particularly when standing or walking for long periods of time. Carrying excess body weight may place additional pressure on the feet and contribute to irritation. 

A podiatrist can examine the foot, review symptoms, and assess foot structure and walking mechanics to determine the likely cause of heel pain. Treatment may include wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and stretching exercises. If you have consistent heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Morton’s neuroma develops when tissue around a nerve in the ball of the foot becomes thick and irritated. It usually affects the space between the third and fourth toes. Despite its name, it is not a tumor or a form of cancer. Symptoms include burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the forefoot. It may feel as though a pebble is trapped beneath the foot or a fold has formed inside the sock. The discomfort can become sharper when standing, walking, or placing pressure on the affected area.

Pressure on the forefoot can contribute to this nerve problem. Shoes with a narrow toe box or high heels can squeeze the toes and place stress on the ball of the foot. Running and other high-impact activities can also irritate the area through repeated pressure. Certain foot shapes can raise the risk, including flat feet, high arches, and bunions. Hammertoes can also change how weight moves across the forefoot. Because symptoms can resemble a stress fracture or another nerve disorder, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins.

A podiatrist examines the foot, reviews the symptoms, and presses areas to locate the source of pain. X-rays can help rule out bone problems, while an ultrasound can provide a closer view of the irritated nerve. Treatment from a podiatrist includes orthotics that reduce pressure beneath the forefoot. The podiatrist can also recommend shoes with a roomy toe box and proper support. Injections can reduce inflammation around the nerve. When these measures do not provide enough relief, surgery can release pressure on the nerve or remove the damaged portion. The best approach depends on the severity of the symptoms and how long they have been present. Early evaluation can help prevent irritation and make walking more comfortable. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma. 

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 Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners 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 Nashville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe can cause enough pain to make walking and standing difficult. Breaks can happen after a hard stub, fall, or heavy object lands on the foot. Some fractures develop from repeated stress on the bone instead of one sudden injury. Pain and difficulty walking are key symptoms. A traumatic break can also cause throbbing, swelling, and bruising. Some patients hear a pop or crack when the injury occurs. However, being able to walk does not mean the toe is not broken.

Toe fractures range from small stress fractures to more serious breaks. A stress fracture is a tiny crack caused by repeated pressure on the bone. It can cause soreness after walking or running and tenderness when the area is touched. A displaced fracture occurs when the broken bone moves out of its normal position. The toe can look crooked, and severe injuries can break the skin. Broken toes and sprained toes can feel similar, so an accurate diagnosis matters. Most broken toes take about six to eight weeks to heal, although recovery varies by injury.

A podiatrist can examine an injured toe and determine whether symptoms point to a fracture. The evaluation can assess swelling, tenderness, and toe alignment. An X-ray can help confirm the break and show whether the bone has moved. Treatment depends on which toe is injured and how severe the fracture is. Options can include buddy taping, a rigid-sole shoe, or a walking boot. More serious fractures can require the bone to be repositioned or surgery to restore alignment. Proper treatment can lower the risk of lasting pain, reduced movement, or problems while walking. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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