Cracked heel fissures develop when the skin on the heel becomes excessively dry and thick, leading to visible splits that can affect both comfort and mobility. The heel is designed to absorb shock and support body weight, but when the skin barrier is compromised, it cannot handle pressure effectively. This condition is frequently seen in individuals who spend long hours on their feet or who lack proper foot support. While mild cases may appear as simple dryness, untreated fissures can deepen and lead to more serious complications. Understanding this condition is important for maintaining both skin health and overall foot function.

Common symptoms include dry, scaly skin that appears along the edges of the heel, often accompanied by a yellow or thickened callus. As the condition progresses, cracks may form and create discomfort during walking. Pain is typically more noticeable when pressure is applied, especially after long periods of standing. In severe cases, the fissures may bleed or become inflamed, increasing the risk of infection. Some individuals also experience itching or sensitivity in the affected area. Recognizing these symptoms early allows for more effective management and improved comfort.

Risk factors for cracked heels vary and often involve both lifestyle and health related influences. Individuals who walk barefoot or wear poorly cushioned footwear are more likely to develop excessive pressure on the heels. Obesity increases the load placed on the foot, which can stretch and weaken the skin. Chronic conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders may impair skin integrity and healing. Additionally, reduced hydration, whether from environmental exposure or inadequate skin care, further increases vulnerability. These combined factors create an environment where the skin is more likely to crack under stress.

The causes of cracked heels are primarily linked to the loss of moisture and repeated mechanical pressure. When the skin becomes dehydrated, it loses flexibility and becomes rigid, making it easier to split. Continuous pressure from standing or walking forces the skin to expand, worsening the fissures. Management includes restoring moisture with specialized creams, using supportive shoes, and avoiding behaviors that increase strain on the heel. Routine foot care and early intervention are essential for prevention. If you have cracked heels that have become painful, it is suggested you seek care from a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate 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 one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot health plays an important role in overall mobility, safety, and independence as people age. Changes in the feet can affect balance, walking stability, and the risk of falls, making foot evaluation an important part of care for older adults. Problems such as thickened nails, poorly maintained skin, pressure areas, or untreated pain may signal more than a foot issue alone. These findings can sometimes suggest reduced mobility, declining strength, difficulty with self-care, or increasing frailty. In some cases, they may also reflect that a caregiver is struggling to keep up with daily care needs. A focused foot examination can help identify concerns early and guide treatment before more serious complications develop. Addressing foot problems may improve comfort, function, and safety. If you are an older adult, or caring for one, and foot discomfort, balance changes, or difficulty with walking persist, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Hammertoe is a toe deformity in which one of the smaller toes bends abnormally at the middle joint, often causing rubbing, pressure, and discomfort while walking. Treatment depends on how flexible or advanced the condition has become. Early care may include footwear changes with a wider toe area to reduce crowding and irritation. Padding or protective supports may help relieve pressure points and reduce friction. Custom orthotics can improve foot mechanics when abnormal pressure contributes to the problem. If corns or calluses develop, a podiatrist can safely manage those painful areas. When the toe becomes rigid or pain interferes with daily movement, procedural correction may be considered to improve alignment and comfort. A podiatrist can determine which approach best fits the severity of the condition. If you have toe pain, shoe irritation, or visible toe bending, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation for effective relief and management tips.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that can develop when high blood sugar damages nerves and reduces blood flow in the feet. People with diabetic neuropathy may not feel pain from cuts, blisters, or pressure points, which allows wounds to worsen. Poor circulation also slows healing and raises the risk of infection. Common signs include redness, swelling, drainage, and skin that feels warm around the sore. Foot deformities, poorly fitting shoes, and repeated pressure while walking can also increase the risk of ulcers. A podiatrist can examine the wound, check circulation, and remove damaged tissue to help healthy skin heal. Treatment also includes special dressings, reducing pressure on the foot with supportive devices, and managing infection. Early care is important because untreated ulcers can lead to serious complications, including loss of limb. If you have developed diabetic foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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