Cracked heels develop when the skin around the heel becomes very dry, thick, and less flexible. As the skin loses moisture, it can split and form painful cracks. These cracks can become deeper when pressure is placed on the heel while walking or standing. Dry weather can contribute to cracked skin, but other factors can also play a role. Open-heeled shoes, shoes that do not fit properly, and certain health conditions can increase the risk. Severe cracks can become sore and allow germs to enter the skin. A podiatrist can examine the heels and determine why the skin is cracking.

A podiatrist can evaluate the condition of the skin and look for signs that the cracks are deeper or becoming irritated. Professional care can include removing thickened skin from the heel and recommending appropriate products to improve the skin’s condition. A podiatrist can also assess how pressure is placed on the heel when walking and determine whether foot structure or footwear is contributing to the problem. If cracked heels are linked to an underlying health condition, the podiatrist can consider that factor when developing a treatment plan. Severe or persistent cracks deserve professional attention because damaged skin can be more vulnerable to infection.

Cracked heels can cause pain, tenderness, and difficulty walking when the splits become deep. A podiatrist can monitor the affected skin and help manage problems that interfere with normal foot function. Professional treatment can also focus on protecting the heel while the skin heals and addressing factors that contribute to repeated cracking. Patients with severe cracks or symptoms that do not improve should have the area evaluated. A podiatrist can determine whether additional treatment is appropriate and check for signs of infection or another condition affecting the skin. If you have symptoms of cracked heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM from Coastal Podiatry Center. 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 New Port Richey, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon is the thick band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and helps the foot push off during walking, running, and jumping. An Achilles tendon injury occurs when this tendon becomes irritated, partially torn, or completely ruptured. Symptoms may include pain near the heel, swelling, and weakness when pushing off. Some injuries develop gradually, while others happen suddenly during physical activity.

Common causes include repeated athletic stress, sudden increases in exercise, and forceful movements, such as jumping or sprinting. Risk factors include limited flexibility, previous Achilles problems, and activities that place repeated strain on the tendon. Age can also affect tendon resilience. Achilles tendon injuries may range from mild tendinitis or tendinopathy to partial tears and complete ruptures. Recognizing symptoms early can help prevent worsening damage.

Healing depends on the severity of the injury and how well the tendon is protected during recovery. A podiatrist begins by examining the heel and ankle, checking strength, range of motion, and walking ability. Imaging tests may be recommended when a tear or rupture is suspected. Treatment may include activity modification, wearing supportive footwear, or immobilization. Severe injuries may require surgical evaluation. Follow-up visits help monitor tendon healing and guide gradual increases in activity.

Recovery should progress carefully because returning to sports too soon can place excessive stress on healing tissue. A podiatrist may recommend stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises as recovery advances. Patients should follow activity restrictions and avoid movements that increase pain. With appropriate care, many Achilles tendon injuries can improve, although healing time varies considerably. If you have an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM of Coastal Podiatry 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 our office located in New Port Richey, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot surgery can restore comfort and improve movement when other treatments no longer provide enough relief. Many foot problems respond well to conservative care, but some conditions continue to cause pain or limit daily activities. One example is hammertoe, which develops when a toe bends abnormally at the middle joint. As the deformity becomes more severe, the toe can become stiff, painful, and difficult to straighten. Pressure from shoes can also lead to corns, calluses, and irritation. A podiatrist carefully evaluates the affected foot to determine whether surgery is the best option based on the condition and its impact on daily life.

Before recommending surgery, a podiatrist performs a thorough examination and reviews symptoms, foot structure, and joint movement. Imaging tests, like X-rays, help show the position of the bones and the severity of the deformity. Surgery includes different techniques depending on the problem being treated. A podiatrist might straighten the toe by releasing tight tendons, removing a small section of bone, or stabilizing the joint. The goal is to reduce pain, improve alignment, and restore function while making it easier to wear shoes comfortably. Each treatment plan is designed to match the patient's condition and activity level.

Recovery after foot surgery depends on the type of procedure and the condition being corrected. A podiatrist provides detailed instructions, monitors healing, and evaluates progress with follow-up visits. Careful monitoring helps reduce the chance of complications and supports a successful outcome. Early evaluation also allows a podiatrist to determine whether surgery is necessary before the condition becomes more limiting. Prompt treatment can improve comfort, increase mobility, and help patients return to daily activities with greater confidence. If you have a hammertoe that requires surgery, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist  to discuss the benefits of foot surgery with you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM of Coastal Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Flat feet occur when one or both feet have a low arch or no visible arch while standing. In some people, the arch never fully develops during childhood. In others, it drops later because of aging or an injury. When symptoms appear, patients can feel aching in the heel or arch, tired feet, or swelling near the ankle. Flat feet can also change how weight moves through the legs. This change can contribute to discomfort in the knees, hips, or lower back.

A podiatrist can determine whether flat feet are causing your symptoms. The visit includes a review of your health, a foot exam, and an evaluation of how you stand and walk. The podiatrist may check whether an arch appears when you rise onto your toes. X-rays can help when an injury, arthritis, or a bone problem is suspected. A wet footprint can suggest a low arch, but it cannot show why the arch is flat. Shoe wear also offers clues, though worn soles do not confirm a diagnosis. An exam is important because heel pain and tired feet can have several causes.

Treatment depends on the symptoms, foot structure, and daily activities. A podiatrist can recommend supportive shoes that fit correctly and provide enough room for the toes. Custom orthotics are prescription inserts shaped for your feet. They can improve support, balance pressure, and make standing or walking more comfortable. A podiatrist can also suggest changes to activities that place extra stress on the feet. Regular follow-up visits allow the doctor to check your comfort and adjust the treatment plan. Surgery is reserved for severe pain or a major change in foot structure that does not improve with other care. Many patients manage flat feet well with a plan designed around their needs. If you have foot problems related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM from Coastal Podiatry 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 our office located in New Port Richey, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.