Items filtered by date: July 2024

Cracked heels can result from various factors, including dietary deficiencies. Insufficient intake of essential vitamins like A, C, and E, as well as minerals such as zinc and iron, can contribute to dry, flaky skin prone to cracking. A diet lacking in omega-3 fatty acids may also impair skin hydration and elasticity, causing heel fissures. Additionally, dehydration plays a critical role, as inadequate water intake reduces skin moisture, making heels more susceptible to cracking. Other causes include prolonged standing or walking barefoot, which increases pressure on the heels, and wearing open-back shoes that fail to support the heel adequately. Cracked heels can be painful and unsightly. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment solutions, which often includes prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Stephanie Oexeman, DPM from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth, or CMT, disease is a hereditary condition that affects the ability of the peripheral nerves to communicate with the muscles, joints, and skin. A progressive condition, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease affects the lower extremities first, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy, particularly in the legs and feet. Symptoms such as balance difficulties, high foot arches, twisted ankles, and foot slapping can make walking and finding appropriate footwear challenging. With no cure available, managing CMT involves stretching and exercise techniques to preserve muscle strength and flexibility, while orthotic devices and braces can provide much-needed support for improved mobility. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary to correct bone deformities. Consulting a podiatrist can be particularly beneficial in managing CMT-related foot issues, offering personalized treatments and recommendations to enhance quality of life. If you are suffering from a rare foot condition, such as CMT, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance in managing its symptoms.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Stephanie Oexeman, DPM of Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot, resulting from a thickening of tissue around a nerve, often between the third and fourth toes. Symptoms include a burning sensation, tingling, or numbness in the affected area, along with the feeling of a small pebble or lump underfoot. Pain may worsen with activity or wearing tight shoes. Treatment options for Morton's neuroma focus on relieving pressure on the affected nerve. This includes wearing shoes with a wider toe box or adding padding to support the arch and alleviate pressure. Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms also helps. Podiatrists may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation, or in severe cases, surgical removal of the neuroma. Early intervention ensures effective management, relieving discomfort and restoring foot function. Visiting a podiatrist is suggested for a precise diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Stephanie Oexeman, DPM of Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls in older adults are often caused by sarcopenia, a condition characterized by the loss of muscle mass and strength, leading to reduced stability and increased risk of falls. Poor balance, vision impairments, and certain medications can also contribute to this issue. To prevent falls, incorporating balance and strength exercises into daily routines is essential. Activities such as tai chi, yoga, and resistance training can enhance muscle strength and improve coordination. Additionally, ensuring adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium through diet or supplements can support bone health and reduce fall risk. Regular eye check-ups and managing medications can further prevent falls. Falling can seriously impact the feet, which may cause the inability to complete daily activities. If you have endured a foot injury from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. This healthcare professional can treat your foot condition, in addition to offering effective fall-prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Stephanie Oexeman, DPM from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Heel pain is a frequent complaint that can significantly impact daily activities. One common cause is plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. Another cause is Achilles tendonitis, where the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated, often due to overuse or improper footwear. Heel spurs, which are bony growths on the heel bone, can also lead to pain and discomfort, especially during walking or standing for long periods. Conditions such as bursitis, arthritis, and nerve compression can contribute to heel pain as well. Addressing heel pain typically involves rest, wearing supportive footwear and possibly using orthotic shoe inserts. Stretching exercises can also provide relief. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate treatment solutions. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Stephanie Oexeman, DPM of Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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