Cracked heels develop when the skin around the heel becomes dry, thick, and splits due to pressure and lack of moisture. Causes include prolonged standing, wearing open-back shoes, and footwear that does not properly support the heel, which increases stress on the skin. Dry climates can worsen the condition by removing natural moisture. Risk factors include obesity, aging, and poor foot-care habits. Symptoms include rough skin, flaking, discomfort, and painful fissures that can deepen if untreated. A podiatrist can assess severity, remove thickened skin safely, recommend treatments, and provide guidance on proper footwear and hydration. Cracked heels can be painful. If you have developed  this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, 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 Summit 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 one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Wallace, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Chronic ankle instability develops when the outer side of the ankle repeatedly gives way, often following previous sprains that did not fully heal. Over time, weakened ligaments and poor joint support can lead to ongoing problems. Common causes include repeated ankle injuries, improper rehabilitation, and footwear that lacks support. Risk factors include high impact activities, uneven surfaces, and poor balance. Symptoms include frequent turning of the ankle, persistent discomfort, swelling, and a feeling of unsteadiness during movement. A podiatrist can evaluate ligament strength, assess gait, and provide treatment such as bracing, custom orthotics, and strengthening exercises. Early intervention can restore stability and prevent further injury. If you have ankle instability or pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Summit Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Wallace, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, leading to crystal deposits in the joints. The big toe is commonly affected because it is more prone to temperature changes and slower circulation, which encourages crystal formation. Symptoms often appear suddenly and include intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint. Causes include genetics, obesity, certain medications, and decreased kidney function that limits the body’s ability to remove uric acid. Risk factors include high blood pressure and degenerative arthritis, which can increase susceptibility.  A podiatrist can help by diagnosing gout, managing pain, and recommending lifestyle changes. If you have pain in your big toe and surrounding joints, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and effective relief and treatment options.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Summit Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Wallace, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.