May 2020

The medical condition that is known as cracked heels can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Common signs of this ailment can include visible cracks in the skin, in addition to thick and peeling skin. It may occur as a result of wearing shoes that have an open back, or from standing for long periods of time throughout the day. Existing medical conditions that can include psoriasis, diabetes, and eczema may play a significant role in developing this condition. It may be beneficial to stay as hydrated as possible, and mild relief may be found when a good moisturizer is frequently applied. Cracked heels can become infected if they are not promptly treated. If you notice symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment is for you.

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 Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The medical condition that is known as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause the patient to experience pain and discomfort, in addition to having deformed toes. It may be difficult to stand for extended periods of time, and the feet can ache for the majority of the day. The joints often become weak, which can be a result of tissue, bone, and cartilage breaking down. A common symptom is swelling, and patients may find it difficult to complete daily activities. The feet may change shape, and larger shoes may have to be worn that can accommodate the changing foot. Patients who are afflicted with RA can find relief when the feet are elevated, and it may feel better to soak the feet in warm water. If you have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in the feet, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe is considered to be one of the most common types of fractures. The toes consist of several small bones, which can easily become broken. It can happen from dropping a heavy object on your toe, or from possibly stubbing it against a piece of furniture. A broken toe generally causes difficulty walking, and can take between four to six weeks to completely heal. Many patients choose to use a treatment method that is referred to as buddy taping, which may be effective for mild fractures. This consists of taping the affected toe to the toe next to it. This treatment method can provide the support that is needed as the healing process occurs. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can treat mild or severely fractured toes.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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