Items filtered by date: February 2025

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thickened, and splits. These cracks can cause discomfort and lead to infections if left untreated. The primary causes of cracked heels include dry skin, which reduces skin elasticity, and excessive pressure from standing or walking for long periods. Poor footwear choices, such as shoes that do not provide adequate support, can worsen the condition. Certain medical conditions like diabetes and eczema can also contribute to cracked heels, as they affect the skin’s ability to retain moisture. Obesity adds extra pressure on the feet, increasing the risk of cracks or fissures. Additionally, hydration is essential for maintaining skin health, and drinking sufficient water helps prevent the skin from drying out and cracking. Cracked heels can be painful and make it difficult to complete daily activities. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can successfully treat this ailment, which may include prescribed medication. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors 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 offices located in Erie, PA and Meadville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, typically felt as a sharp or stabbing sensation, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of sitting. The pain is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects your heel to your toes. Overuse, flat feet, high arches, or wearing unsupportive footwear can increase your risk of developing this condition. In addition to heel pain, you may also experience tightness or swelling along the bottom of the foot. Treatments often include rest, stretching exercises, and wearing supportive shoes or custom orthotics to relieve pressure. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend corticosteroid injections or even surgery. This type of specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like plantar fasciitis, and they can tailor a treatment plan to help alleviate pain and prevent future flare-ups. If you are struggling with heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Custom orthotics can be a powerful tool in managing bunion pain, especially when paired with properly fitted shoes. Bunions develop from misaligned joints at the base of the big toe, causing discomfort, swelling, and difficulty with footwear. Orthotics help by redistributing pressure away from the bunion, reducing friction and inflammation. They also improve foot alignment, which minimizes the progression of the bunion over time. When worn in supportive, roomy shoes that do not compress the toes, custom orthotics provide optimal relief. Look for shoes with a wide toe box and cushioning to complement the benefits of the orthotics. Together, they help alleviate pain and allow for more comfortable daily activities. While orthotics will not reverse bunions, they can significantly improve quality of life. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for expert advice and care.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Erie, PA and Meadville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome happens when the tibial nerve is compressed inside the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space in the ankle. It causes tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain in the foot, often worsening with activity. People with flat feet, diabetes, arthritis, or previous ankle injuries are more likely to develop it. Doctors diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome with a physical exam, nerve conduction tests, and sometimes imaging like an MRI scan. When conservative treatments like rest, orthotics, and targeted exercises do not help, surgery may be an option. Tarsal tunnel release surgery involves cutting the ligament over the nerve to relieve pressure. This can reduce pain and prevent further nerve damage. Recovery and satisfaction with the surgery varies, but exercises may help restore strength and movement. If you have persistent foot pain or numbness, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Erie, PA and Meadville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and redness. This condition commonly affects the big toe and can be caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or injury. People with naturally curved nails or certain foot conditions are more prone to developing ingrown toenails. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, redness, and in some cases, the formation of pus if an infection develops. The area surrounding the nail may feel tender or sore, especially when walking or wearing shoes. Treatment for an ingrown toenail starts with soaking the foot in warm water to reduce swelling. For mild cases, a podiatrist may lift the nail or trim it carefully. In more severe cases, part of the nail may need to be removed or treated with a local anesthetic. If you are experiencing an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper care.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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