November 2023

Cracked heels are not merely a cosmetic concern, their impact can extend beyond the surface, and may affect overall foot health and well-being. These painful fissures in the skin create an entry point for bacteria, increasing the risk of infections. As the cracks deepen, they can lead to bleeding and expose sensitive tissues, causing discomfort and hindering mobility. In severe cases, untreated cracked heels may contribute to balance issues, potentially increasing the risk of falls, particularly in older individuals. The pain associated with cracked heels can alter gait patterns, placing undue stress on other joints, such as the knees and hips. Moreover, the constant pressure on the feet can lead to chronic inflammation, exacerbating conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Addressing cracked heels involves more than cosmetic care, it is a vital aspect of maintaining overall foot health and preventing potential complications that can impact one's daily life and mobility. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer prescribed medication as an effective treatment method.

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. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse 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 one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel stability is an important aspect of overall balance and comfort, and it is often overlooked until you experience pain or discomfort in that area. Fortunately, there are several stretches that can help enhance heel stability and promote overall foot health. One beneficial stretch is the calf stretch. This simple exercise involves extending one leg behind you and leaning forward with the other, feeling the stretch in your calf and Achilles tendon. By keeping these areas flexible, you reduce the strain on your heel. Another effective stretch is the plantar fascia stretch. To perform this, sit down and cross one ankle over the opposite knee. Gently pull your toes back toward your shin, feeling the stretch along the arch of your foot. This stretch helps to maintain the flexibility of the plantar fascia, thus reducing the risk of heel pain. The final stretch to consider is the toe stretch. This can be done by sitting or standing and extending your toes as far as possible, then curling them under. This exercise strengthens the muscles in your feet and enhances overall heel stability. If you would like additional information about effective heel stability stretches, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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

Achilles tendon bursitis is a painful condition that involves inflammation of the fluid filled sac, or bursa, located between the skin of the heel. Posterior Achilles tendon bursitis affects the back of the heel, while anterior Achilles tendon bursitis, also called retromalleolar bursitis, is felt in front of the attachment of the Achilles tendon to the heel bone. Symptoms include swelling, warmth, pain, and a tender spot at the back of the heel. Diagnosis by a podiatrist begins with a discussion of symptoms and a medical history, followed by a physical examination to identify signs of inflammation and tenderness. X-rays may be used to rule out other potential causes of heel pain, and in some cases, an ultrasound or MRI may provide more detailed views. The primary goal is to relieve inflammation and reduce pain. Treatment approaches may vary based on the severity and location of the pain. In rare cases, surgical intervention may be considered. For help in relieving the pain of Achilles tendon bursitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm of Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Flatfoot is characterized by the loss of the foot's arch, leading to an abducted forefoot and a hindfoot deformity. The two types of flat feet are flexible and rigid flatfoot. In flexible flatfoot, the arch appears when not bearing weight, but disappears when weight is applied. Conversely, in rigid flatfoot, the arch is consistently absent. Flexible flatfoot often appears in young children and may self-resolve. Its frequency in adults is unclear, due to frequent misdiagnosis. The disorder can be either congenital or developed over time. Flexible flatfoot results from ligament laxity, while adult-acquired flatfoot is attributed to posterior tibial tendon insufficiency, potentially caused by factors like obesity, neuropathy, or trauma. Rigid flatfoot results from bone irregularities or arthritis. A missing foot arch and deformities are noticeable upon examination. If you have flatfoot and it is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine which type of flat foot you have, in addition to providing appropriate relief and treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.