Cracked heels often follows having extremely dry skin. It can be a painful ailment, and in severe cases, can develop into fissures that can bleed and become infected. Cracked heels can be unsightly, and can occur from wearing shoes that have an open back, or possibly from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. Additionally, there may be existing medical reasons why this condition may occur. These can include eczema, psoriasis, thyroid disorder, or obesity. Methods can be implemented that may reduce the risk of getting cracked heels. It is advised to refrain from wearing flip-flops that have an open back, and most of these types of shoes have little or no support. People who are overweight may choose to wear orthotics, which may help to evenly distribute their weight away from the heels. If you have cracked heels, please consult with a chiropodist who can steer you toward the right treatment techniques. 

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, can cause pain and discomfort. If your cracked heels are bothering you, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Dry, thickened skin around the rim of the heel is typically the first sign of cracked heels. While this condition is common and usually just a nuisance, some cases can be more severe. If left untreated and as more pressure is placed on the heel, the cracks become deeper and eventually walking and standing can be painful. These deep cracks or fissures can bleed and also become infected. Those with diabetes need to be especially careful as fissures could lead to diabetic foot ulcers. 

Causes

Cracked heels can be the result of several different factors, including: 

• Dry skin
• Taking long, hot showers or using harsh soaps
• Standing for long periods of time
• Walking barefoot
• Walking in shoes with an open back, such as sandals or flip flops
• Wearing shoes that do not fit properly
• Living in a cold or dry climate
• Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis

Treatment

There are many at-home treatment remedies for cracked heels. Applying moisturizers to the heel can help hydrate the skin. Soaking your feet in warm water and exfoliating them with a loofah or pumice stone can help to buff away dead skin cells. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can prevent cracked heels by:

• Avoiding standing in one position for prolonged periods of time
• Wearing well-fitted shoes with a closed back
• Washing your feet with gentle soaps and lukewarm water
• Moisturizing the feet daily

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON . 

The medical term for the foot condition known as Sever’s disease is called calcaneal apophysitis. It is an ailment that affects the heel of young teenagers who frequently participate in running and jumping activities. It happens as a result of repeated trauma inflicted on the heel’s growth plate which is part of an underdeveloped heel. Common symptoms may include limping, swelling, and the pain may worsen when the heel is squeezed. It is beneficial to wear shoes that have adequate cushioning in the heel and arch area, and it can help to maintain a healthy weight. This is often advised so the heel can be protected from additional pressure. There are specific stretches that can be performed that may help to strengthen the Achilles tendon, which is connected to the heel. If your child is afflicted with Sever’s disease, please confer with a chiropodist sooner than later so the correct treatment can begin.

Sever’s disease typically affects young children and teenagers. If your child complains of foot pain, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Sever’s Disease? 

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. It is typically caused by overuse due to repetitive activities such as running, jumping, and playing certain sports. This condition most frequently affects children between the ages of 8 and 14. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of Sever’s disease include: 

• Pain in the back or bottom of the heel
• Pain when the sides of the heel are squeezed
• Limping or walking on tiptoes to avoid putting pressure on the heel
• Difficulty running, jumping, or participating in usual activities
• Fatigue 

Diagnosis

Sever’s disease is diagnosed by taking a thorough medical history and performing a physical examination. Imaging studies, such as an X-ray, can help rule out other injuries like a fracture. 

Treatment

Sever’s disease typically heals without any long-term complications. Treatment involves resting the affected foot by reducing typical activities, wearing orthotics to support the foot, immobilizing the affected foot, taking medications to reduce pain and inflammation, and stretching the foot. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON . 

Cuboid syndrome is a condition that affects the feet. This ailment may also be referred to as dropped cuboid, locked cuboid, and subluxed cuboid. The cuboid bone is one of seven tarsal bones that are located on the outside of the foot. Repeated stress on the outside of the foot may result in cuboid syndrome and this could be due to the torn tendons surrounding these bones. It is quite a common injury among ballet dancers because of the style of dance that is practiced. It can also occur from an ankle injury or certain medical conditions including flat feet and overpronation. As mentioned, the pain accompanied by cuboid syndrome is felt on the outside of the foot and it may even spread to the ankle and toes. The patient may limp, and the overall foot may feel weak. Additionally, the pain may be at its worse upon arising in the morning and subside as the day progresses. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a chiropodist who can effectively treat cuboid syndrome. 

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joint and ligaments surrounding the cuboid bone in the foot become injured. If you think that you may have cuboid syndrome, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

The cuboid bone is one of the seven tarsal bones located in the foot. Cuboid syndrome develops when the cuboid bone moves down and out of alignment with the other bone (calcaneus bone) in the joint of the foot. Cuboid syndrome can be the result of a sudden injury like an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly over time from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures. 

Symptoms

The most common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain on the outside of the foot which may worsen with activity. 

Other possible symptoms include: 

• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot
• Swelling
• Sensitivity on the bottom of the foot
• Reduced range of motion  

Diagnosis

A chiropodist can diagnose cuboid syndrome based on your medical history and a physical examination of the foot. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, often fail to show the dislocated cuboid. 

Treatment

Treatment often includes resting, icing, compressing and elevating the affected foot, taping, wearing orthotic inserts, and taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain. The chiropodist may also be able to manipulate the dislocated bone back into alignment.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON . 

Foot wounds are injuries that break the skin on the foot. If cared for properly, they should heal and not cause serious problems. If one is diabetic, there are more risks for infection and medical treatment should be obtained immediately. Whether serious or minor, the treatment for a foot wound involves keeping it clean and covering it with a bandage until it heals. Before doing anything, the hands should be washed with soap and clean water so that bacteria will not be transferred into the wound and cause an infection. Alcohol, peroxide, or harsh antiseptics should not be used as these could inflame a wound. Never use a dirty towel to apply pressure to the wound. Keep the wound moist with an antibacterial cream or petroleum jelly as this will excel healing. Bandage the wound, making sure the sticky part of the bandage is not touching it. Change the bandage every 24 hours or more frequently to prevent it from getting dirty or wet from wound secretions. Wounds that are larger or will not stop bleeding may need stitches. Make sure tetanus shot status is up to date and consider a tetanus booster for a deep wound. Depending on your comfort in taking care of a foot wound, a chiropodist can help ensure it is taken care of properly.

Wound care is the process of treating and preventing wounds on the feet. This is especially important if you have diabetes, as diabetic foot wounds are common and can lead to serious complications when left untreated. To learn more about proper wound care, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Why Is Wound Care Important for Diabetics?

While wound care is important for maintaining the health of your feet, it is especially important for people with diabetes. This is because diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation, causing foot wounds to heal very slowly or not to heal at all. Diabetics also frequently suffer from neuropathy or nerve loss. This means no matter how big or little the wound, they might not feel it on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. This is why it is imperative that diabetics complete daily foot checks.

Wound Care Basics

The best way to care for wounds is to prevent them in the first place. It is recommended that people with diabetes perform a daily examination of their feet to locate cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds. Early detection allows for ample time to treat the wounds and prevent further complications. If you notice a wound at home, you can clean it using water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover the wound with a clean bandage. Seeing a chiropodist, who can examine your feet thoroughly and treat any existing wounds, can also help you maintain proper foot health. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON .