Items filtered by date: May 2025

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common foot condition where the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry, thick, and begins to split. This often occurs when the skin loses moisture and elasticity, leading to roughness and the development of painful cracks. One major cause is having naturally dry feet, which can worsen without proper moisturizing. Standing for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces, puts constant pressure on the heels and can lead to skin breakdown. Dehydration reduces the skin’s ability to stay soft and flexible, increasing the risk of cracks. Additionally, being overweight can also add extra stress to the heel area, causing the skin to expand and split. Cracked heels may become painful, causing difficulty in completing daily tasks. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, 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 Keleigh Muxlow, DPM from Colorado. 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 Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fungal nail infections, or onychomycosis, often affect the toenails, causing them to become discolored, thickened, brittle, or misshapen. These infections are usually caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, public showers, or inside sweaty shoes. They can also develop after a nail injury or if the immune system is compromised. Early symptoms may include white or yellow spots under the nail, changes in nail texture, and a foul odor. As the infection progresses, the nail may become painful, lift from the nail bed, or crumble at the edges. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection through a nail sample and offer a range of treatment options. These may include topical or oral antifungal medications, laser therapy, or, in some cases, removal of the infected nail. They can also help prevent reinfection through hygiene guidance and proper foot care. If you have a fungal nail infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Keleigh Muxlow, DPM of Colorado. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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