Cracked heels can be uncomfortable and unsightly, and vitamin deficiencies may contribute to their development. Insufficient levels of certain vitamins, especially from the B-vitamin group, can cause the skin to become dry and brittle, leading to cracks. Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin, and a deficiency can result in rough, cracked skin on the feet. Vitamin B3, or niacin, helps the skin retain moisture and improve its elasticity, preventing cracks. Vitamin B6 supports the body's ability to repair damaged tissues, including the skin, while vitamin B12 is vital for maintaining skin health and preventing dryness. A lack of these vitamins can impair the skin’s ability to stay hydrated and repair itself, making the heels more prone to cracking. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

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 Eveleigh Williams, DPM from Sole 2 Sole, PC. 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 Olympia Fields, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bumps on the bottom of the foot, such as plantar fibromas, are often benign growths that develop in the tissue beneath the skin, known as the plantar fascia. However, other conditions like calluses or bone spurs can also cause similar lumps. Plantar fibromas are firm, rubbery lumps that can vary in size and may cause discomfort or pain, especially when walking or standing. The exact cause of plantar fibromas is unclear, but factors like genetics, trauma, or repetitive stress on the feet can contribute. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, and sometimes a noticeable lump under the arch of the foot. In some cases, the fibroma or lump can interfere with movement and cause difficulty with footwear. Treatment options range from conservative methods, such as stretching exercises, orthotic insoles, and corticosteroid injections, to surgical removal, in more severe cases. A podiatrist can provide a thorough diagnosis and tailored treatment plan to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Eveleigh Williams, DPM from Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. There are different types of ingrown toenails, including curled, spoon, and pincer-shaped nails. Curled toenails grow inward due to their natural shape, often causing pressure on the skin. Spoon nails, which are concave and curved upward, can cause the edges of the toenail to dig into the skin. Pincer nails, where the toenail is excessively curved inward from both sides, can lead to more severe irritation and pain. Common causes of ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, injury, or genetic predisposition. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can become infected and lead to more serious complications. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose and treat ingrown toenails, providing pain relief, infection management, and guidance on proper nail care to prevent recurrence. If you are struggling with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Eveleigh Williams, DPM of Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Conditions such as balance issues, ankle instability, or pain from injuries can make walking challenging, increasing the risk of falls. Using a cane can help provide stability and reduce pressure on the affected area. When using a cane, the most effective approach is to hold it in the hand opposite the injured foot, allowing the cane and the affected leg to work together for better support. For example, if the right ankle is in pain, holding the cane in the left hand and stepping forward with both the left hand and the right foot simultaneously creates a more balanced and natural gait. This method minimizes strain on the affected foot and helps prevent altered walking mechanics that could lead to back or hip discomfort. A podiatrist can provide guidance on proper cane usage and evaluate underlying foot or ankle conditions to address pain and improve mobility. If you have fallen and have injured your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Eveleigh Williams, DPM from Sole 2 Sole, PC. 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 Olympia Fields, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.