October 2023

An individual would see a podiatrist for cracked heels because they are specialists in foot and ankle care, and cracked heels can be more than just a cosmetic issue. While minor heel fissures may be seen as a nuisance, severe cracks can be painful, bleed, or become infected. A podiatrist can identify the underlying causes of cracked heels, which may include biomechanical issues, skin conditions, systemic diseases, or prolonged pressure. This foot doctor can provide professional treatments such as debridement, where the hard, dead skin is removed safely, and prescribe specialized moisturizers or medicated creams. Additionally, they can offer guidance on footwear choices, recommend orthotic inserts to redistribute pressure, and offer advice on preventive measures. If you have persistent or severe cracked heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to ensure they are cared for and to avoid complications.

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 one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Experiencing arch pain in your foot can be uncomfortable and potentially lead to complications if not addressed promptly. As the pain persists or worsens, seeking help from a podiatrist is essential. This medically trained foot doctor can employ various techniques to diagnose the underlying causes of your arch pain. During a physical examination, the doctor assesses the pain's location, evaluates ligaments, and checks for signs of infection or inflammation. Taking X-rays can provide a comprehensive view of the foot's structure, which aids in detecting structural problems or injuries that may be contributing to the pain. In more complex cases, advanced imaging techniques, like MRI and CT scans, offer detailed images of bones and tendons, enabling a more precise diagnosis. In certain situations, an ultrasound scan may be recommended for pinpoint accuracy. Rest is fundamental, involving a break from activities that stress the feet. Supportive shoes with arch supports and night splints for conditions like plantar fasciitis can also provide relief. For help in dealing with pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

With the physical demands of basketball, players are constantly at risk of injuries. Among these, ankle injuries are the most common for basketball players. Others basketball-related injuries include sprains, fractures, impingement, and Achilles tendon problems. Basketball demands repetitive jumping, rapid changes in motion, and explosive movements, all of which make a player prone to musculoskeletal injuries. Ankle injuries alone account for nearly a quarter of all basketball-related injuries. Sprained ankles occur when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, often due to sudden changes in direction or landing improperly from a jump. Fractured ankles happen when the bones in the ankle, such as the tibia, fibula, or talus, break. They are often a result of high-impact collisions or awkward landings. Ankle impingement occurs when soft tissues, such as tendons or ligaments, become compressed within the ankle joint. This can lead to pain and a limited range of motion. The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can be especially vulnerable in basketball. Overuse, sudden acceleration, or deceleration can lead to such injuries as tendonitis or ruptures. If you or your child regularly plays basketball and ankle problems have developed, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

While occasional tiptoe walking is normal in toddlers who are exploring their bodies, persistent tiptoe walking may signal underlying issues that require attention from a podiatrist. One common cause is idiopathic toe walking, as sometimes children walk on tiptoe without any apparent reason. This condition usually resolves by the time the child is three years old, but persistent cases may require evaluation. Another potential cause is a tight Achilles tendon, as a shortened Achilles tendon can make it uncomfortable for a child to place their heels on the ground. Some children with sensory processing disorders may prefer tiptoe walking due to heightened sensitivity in their feet. Tiptoe walking can lead to muscle imbalances and joint issues in the long run, which may affect a child's balance and coordination, potentially leading to falls and injuries. If you notice that your child is frequently walking on tiptoe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help your child develop a healthier, more comfortable gait.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, allowing us to walk, run, and jump. An Achilles tendon injury occurs when the tendon is strained, stretched, or torn. Typically, injuries manifest through pain and stiffness along the back of the leg, near the heel or calf area. Individuals with an Achilles tendon injury may experience localized swelling, tenderness, or warmth around the affected area. In some cases, a noticeable snapping sound may accompany the injury, indicating a severe tear. Pain can worsen during physical activity, particularly when pushing off the foot or standing on tiptoes. Understanding these symptoms is vital for timely medical intervention and appropriate rehabilitation to ensure a swift recovery and regain the functionality of the Achilles tendon. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.