Mildly cracked heels are generally not a serious foot condition unless they develop into fissures, which may bleed and become infected. Cracked heels are caused by standing on hard or uneven surfaces for most of the day, or from wearing shoes that do not have a back. Flip-flops fall into this category, and it is beneficial to limit wearing these types of shoes. Patients who have existing medical conditions, such as psoriasis, diabetes, or a thyroid disorder, may be prone to getting cracked heels. One of the first signs that cracked heels may be developing is the hard, thickened skin surrounding the heel. This is referred to as a callus and can be yellow or brown in color. Cracks can form over the callus and can become worse when pressure of standing or running is exerted. Effective prevention methods can include washing and drying the feet daily, followed by applying a good moisturizer on them. If you have cracked heels that are causing problems, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can successfully treat this condition.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South Texas. 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 Brownsville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a foot condition that can be painful. The tibial nerve is found inside the tarsal tunnel, and an injury can cause this nerve to become compressed. It may also occur from having an abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet or a bone spur. The tibial nerve is located in the ankle and allows movement and feeling in various parts of the foot. The tarsal tunnel lies in the back of the inside of the ankle, and when this nerve is irritated in this narrow tunnel, tarsal tunnel syndrome can develop. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this foot condition can consist of a tingling or numbing sensation on the sole of the foot, and the toes may be difficult to move. Treatment generally begins with resting the foot and eliminating any activities that can cause discomfort. Some patients choose to wear orthotics, which may help reduce some of the symptoms. If the pain is severe and daily activities are difficult to accomplish, surgery may be an option to enlarge the tarsal tunnel. If you have this syndrome, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can guide you toward the treatment that is best for you.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Renee Rodriquez, DPM of Foot Clinic of South Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

There is a disorder that attacks an individual's immune system that may result in rheumatoid arthritis, which is abbreviated as RA. It targets the cells in the lining of the joints, and will often affect both feet. This is a condition that causes severe inflammation and pain, and it can be difficult to walk and complete daily activities. Some of the beginning symptoms of RA can consist of having a slight fever, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. There may be factors that can contribute to getting RA, including smoking, obesity, and it may be more prevalent among women. Practicing a gentle exercise routine may provide moderate relief for patients who are afflicted with RA, in addition to taking certain medications. If your feet are stiff and it is painful to walk, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose RA, and offer correct treatment solutions. 

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Renee Rodriquez, DPM of Foot Clinic of South Texas. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

The risk of falling increases with age due to declining physical health, greater mobility issues, a more sedentary lifestyle, vision problems, hazards in the home, and side effects of medications. Falling can be serious for older people and is one of the leading causes of injury, disability, or even death in this age group. Stability and balance can be issues for seniors, which makes falling a risk. Because vision declines with age and older people have more eye-related diseases, seeing and judging distances becomes harder and it is easier to fall over obstacles in their environments. Issues with poor lighting, clutter, and improper maintenance in homes are more likely in this population, which also contribute to falling. Sadly, an elderly person is also more likely to fall for no obvious reason, but this can happen from a medical condition, such as a heart issue, circulation problems, or dehydration. To minimize falling and the consequences it might have, if you are a senior, it would be wise to assess and tend to home risks, get regular physical and eye exams, wear supportive and well-fitting shoes, use walking devices as needed, and try to stay as active as possible. Including a podiatrist among the health care professionals you see for routine foot exams and treatment of any current or brewing issues can increase your confidence that your mobility and independence will continue unharmed.

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 Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South Texas. 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 Brownsville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.