Cracked heels, a common foot condition, often result from various risk factors and underlying causes. Dry skin is a primary contributor, often worsened by prolonged standing on hard surfaces. People with diabetes or other conditions affecting blood circulation are at increased risk of cracked heels. Wearing open-backed shoes, flip-flops, or high heels can place undue pressure on the heels, leading to cracks and fissures. Environmental factors, such as low humidity, can also strip moisture from the skin, making it more prone to cracking. Additionally, obesity adds extra weight, which can put additional stress on the heels. Regular moisturizing and wearing supportive, well-fitting footwear can help prevent and manage cracked heels. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

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 Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care 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 Seaford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot bruises occur when blood vessels in the foot rupture, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissues. The types of foot bruises can include contusions, hematomas, and purpura, each with distinct characteristics and causes. Contusions result from direct injury, such as bumping or hitting the foot, that lead to swelling, pain, and discoloration. Hematomas involve significant bleeding, where blood pools under the skin, often due to more severe trauma. Purpura, on the other hand, occurs without injury and is typically linked to underlying medical conditions, such as blood disorders or infections. The causes of foot bruises can range from minor accidents, such as tripping or wearing ill-fitting shoes, to more serious conditions like fractures or systemic illnesses. Because foot bruises can signal various issues, from simple injuries to significant health concerns, it is essential to seek a medical evaluation from a podiatrist. If you have unexplained bruises on your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Ankle sprains vary in severity and are classified into three grades. A Grade 1 sprain is mild, involving slight stretching of the ligaments with minimal damage. It typically results from a minor twist or roll of the ankle, often seen in everyday activities. A Grade 2 sprain is more severe, with partial tearing of the ligaments. This type usually occurs from a more significant impact or an awkward landing, leading to moderate pain and swelling. The most serious, a Grade 3 sprain, involves a complete tear of the ligament. This severe injury often results from high-impact events or sudden, forceful movements, causing intense pain, swelling, and instability. Each grade requires specific treatment and rehabilitation to ensure proper recovery and prevent future issues. If you have suffered an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine what the grade is, and offer appropriate treatment options.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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