Cracked heels develop when the skin on the heel becomes dry, thickened, and splits, sometimes leading to pain or bleeding. This often happens when the skin loses moisture and elasticity. Causes include diet deficiencies that affect skin health, use of harsh soaps that strip natural oils, and exposure to cold weather that dries the skin. Additional factors such as being overweight and walking or standing for long periods of time can increase pressure on the heels and worsen cracking. Risk factors include poor hydration, inadequate foot care, and wearing open back shoes. A podiatrist can help by treating damaged skin, recommending proper care, and preventing infection. If you have painful or persistent cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate relief tips, 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 Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. 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 Hendersonville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the heel bone due to repeated stress on the foot. Many people do not notice symptoms. However, if pain occurs, it is often felt as a sharp or stabbing sensation in the bottom of the heel. This pain is usually worse with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a long time. This discomfort, called inflammation, is linked to irritation and swelling of nearby tissue. One of the main risk factors for heel spurs is long-term strain on the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue that supports the arch. Excess body weight and changes in foot alignment are further causes. Without proper care, symptoms may worsen, affect walking and impede daily activities. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through X-rays, evaluate foot mechanics, and provide treatment to relieve pressure and improve function. If you are experiencing pain from heel spurs, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

Diabetic limb salvage is a set of treatments aimed at preventing limb loss in people with severe foot complications from diabetes. It is often necessary due to conditions such as a severe form of peripheral artery disease, foot ulcers, or gangrene caused by poor circulation and nerve damage. Risk factors include long-standing diabetes, infection, and delayed wound care. The process involves restoring blood flow, removing infected tissue, and promoting healing through advanced medical care. A podiatrist plays an essential role by identifying problems early, managing wounds, and coordinating care to improve outcomes. If you have diabetes and notice non-healing wounds, discoloration, or severe pain in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you seek prompt professional care from a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective management solutions.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, often caused by a sudden twist, uneven surfaces, sports activity, or a simple misstep. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and difficulty bearing weight. The ankle may look puffy or discolored and can feel stiff, weak, or unstable, with pain ranging from mild soreness to sharp discomfort during movement. A podiatrist can help by beginning with a detailed examination and imaging when needed to determine the severity of the injury. Early diagnosis is important to rule out fractures and guide proper care. Treatment may start with protection and swelling control, followed by bracing, footwear guidance, and targeted exercises to restore strength and flexibility. More severe sprains may require advanced care to prevent chronic instability. Proper treatment supports healing and reduces the risk of repeat injury. If you have a sprained ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hendersonville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.