Cracked heels are a condition where the skin along the heel becomes dry, thick, and split, often causing discomfort or pain. Common causes include vitamin deficiencies, chronic dry skin, mechanical stress from standing or walking, and frequent barefoot walking. Medical conditions such as diabetes can increase the risk due to reduced skin healing and circulation. Symptoms may include rough skin, visible fissures, tenderness, and, in severe cases, bleeding. Risk factors also include obesity, poor footwear support, and certain skin disorders. A podiatrist can assess the severity of cracked heels, provide safe debridement, recommend therapeutic moisturizers, and address underlying causes. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

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 Manisha Mehta, DPM from Detroit, MI. 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 Detroit, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Choosing the right running shoe plays an important role in foot comfort and preventing injuries. Start by considering where you run, as road, trail, and treadmill surfaces place different demands on the feet. Proper fit is essential, with enough room in the toe box to prevent pressure on the toes, while still holding the heel securely. Cushioning should match your body weight and running style, because too little may increase impact stress and too much can affect stability. Pay attention to shoe flexibility and how the sole bends, since this influences foot motion. Replacing running shoes is important because worn materials reduce protection for the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, gait, and running habits to recommend features that support movement and reduce strain. If you experience foot pain after running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Manisha Mehta, DPM from Detroit, MI. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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

Diabetic foot care exams play an important role in preventing serious complications for people with diabetes. Ongoing high blood sugar can cause nerve damage and poor circulation, leading to numbness, tingling, burning, or slow-healing wounds. Feet may look dry, cracked, or swollen. Sometimes they develop pressure points and ulcers. Because sensation may be reduced, the feet might not feel pain even when injury or infection is present. A podiatrist can help from the start by performing a thorough exam that evaluates skin health, circulation, nerve function, and nail condition. Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment, such as nail and callus care, wound management, and footwear guidance. Ongoing exams help monitor changes and reduce the risk of infection or ulcers. If you have diabetes and are experiencing foot problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Manisha Mehta, DPM from Detroit, MI. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Infant toenails are soft and delicate, so they benefit from gentle, consistent attention as your baby grows. Their nails often look thin or slightly uneven, which is normal in the early months. Because babies move constantly, it helps to check their feet regularly for snags that could catch on clothing or scratch their skin. Trimming should only be done when the nails become long enough to curl or snag. Using small baby nail scissors or clippers and cutting straight across keeps the process safe and comfortable. After bath time is usually the easiest moment, since warm water softens the nails. If you notice redness, swelling, or sensitivity surrounding a nail, it may be the start of an ingrown toenail or mild infection. If these changes continue or your baby seems uncomfortable, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper evaluation and support.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Manisha Mehta, DPM of Detroit, MI. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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