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Medical Conditions May Cause Cracked Heels

Cracked heels are an uncomfortable foot condition that can develop for various reasons. These can include wearing shoes that do not have a back or standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. Dry skin may also contribute to developing cracked heels and may come from having specific medical conditions. These can include eczema, psoriasis, or hyperkeratosis, which can happen from participating in sporting activities that consistently rub the skin. Additionally, a thyroid disorder may cause the skin to become dry, possibly leading to cracked heels, and it is not uncommon for diabetic patients to have this condition as well. Mild relief may be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by applying a good moisturizer. Wearing cushioned socks may help to protect the heels from rubbing against the shoes. Cracked heels can become infected so it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can prescribe medication that can begin effective treatment.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. 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 Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Morton’s Neuroma Surgery

Sometimes, certain afflictions of the foot can be so severe that they can only be treated properly by undergoing a kind of surgical procedure. It is important to note that foot surgery is not for everyone and you may not be a good candidate for particular surgical procedures. However, sometimes undergoing a surgical procedure can be beneficial and it might be the only way to treat severe conditions. For example, some individuals can benefit from a surgical procedure for Morton’s neuroma. This condition is defined as the swelling or inflammation of the nerve between the toes or metatarsal bones. The surgical procedure to address Morton’s neuroma consists of removing a small section of the nerve. An incision must be made to get to the damaged nerve and then the skin is quickly sewn up following the removal of the nerve. Contact a podiatrist today for more information about Morton’s neuroma or to learn if you might be a good candidate for surgery.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. 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 Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How Did I Get Morton’s Neuroma?

People who have experienced Morton’s neuroma are aware of the severe pain and discomfort it may cause. It is a foot condition that is caused by wearing shoes that are too tight. High heels can fall into this category, possibly causing pressure on the nerve that is found between the third and fourth toes. This nerve can become irritated and compressed, and refraining from wearing high heels may provide relief for some patients. Additionally, frequently resting the affected foot may lessen the symptoms, which can include a burning or tingling sensation, followed by a dull ache. A proper diagnosis is necessary to have effective treatment. This can consist of squeezing the affected area, and gauging the pain level. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove the damaged nerve. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Stretching and Strengthening the Achilles Tendon

Many problems can affect the Achilles tendon. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon is known as Achilles Tendonitis and is the most common injury to this site. It is generally caused by intense or excessive physical activity. If this condition is not treated properly, other afflictions can develop, such as Achilles tendinopathy where there is degeneration or damage to the collagen in the Achilles tendon, Achilles tendinosis where there are micro-tears to the tendon, and an Achilles tendon rupture where there is a partial or complete tear to the tendon. Symptoms of Achilles tendon issues include tightness, pain, weakness, and mobility issues. A variety of exercises can be done to generate healing and improve mobility. If you suffer from Achilles tendon discomfort, you should seek the counsel of a podiatrist for proper a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. 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 Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail is one of the most painful foot conditions to have. It happens when the nail grows into the skin instead of over it. This can happen for various reasons including wearing shoes and socks that are too tight, cutting the toenail incorrectly, and possibly from a toe injury. Some patients develop an ingrown toenail because of the shape of the nail or from poor foot hygiene. Diabetic people may be prone to ingrown toenails because of reduced blood flow to the feet. Additionally, experiencing toenail fungus frequently may lead to an ingrown toenail, and this can cause the nail to become brittle and put pressure on the surrounding skin. Many people are unaware that having poor posture may put extra weight on the toes too, therefore increasing the chances of getting an ingrown toenail. If you have existing or recurring ingrown toenails, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief and treatment techniques.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Common Foot Problems Among Seniors

About one-third of people over the age of 65 have foot problems that affect their daily lives. Some of these are simply the result of 65 years of standing, walking, running, and jumping. Joints stiffen, muscles get tired, arches flatten, heel padding thins out, and ligaments loosen. According to the American Geriatric Society, podiatrists see more older patients than any other age group. Underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis, often contribute to developing foot ailments like neuropathy and peripheral artery disease. Among the most common foot problems in seniors are deformities such as bunions and hammertoes. In addition, as everyday foot care becomes either more difficult or less frequent, seniors are more likely to develop ingrown toenails, corns, and calluses. Other common foot problems include gout, cracked heels, and plantar fasciitis. It is a good idea for seniors to make regular appointments with a podiatrist, who can help to treat and monitor any foot problems.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Methods That Can Determine the Right Shoe Size

The first place to start when determining the correct shoe size is by measuring your feet. Research has indicated that a large percentage of people worldwide are wearing the wrong shoe size. This often results in developing unwanted foot conditions consisting of corns, calluses, and blisters. To obtain the correct shoe size, it is beneficial to measure your feet at the end of the day when they are at their largest. The majority of shoe stores have a Brannock device which can accurately measure the feet. Conversely, many people choose to measure their feet at home, and this is done by standing on a piece of paper, and tracing the outline of each foot, followed by measuring them. At this point, the measurements can be compared to a size chart, and the correct shoe size can be determined. While in the shoe store, it is beneficial to try on both shoes and walk for a short time in them, which is helpful in ensuring a comfortable fit. If you have questions about how to get your right shoe size, please do not hesitate to consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.
- When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
- Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
- Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
- Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
- If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Is an Ankle Avulsion Fracture?

A broken ankle is a serious injury that can cause immense pain. The tissues surrounding a broken ankle may be affected by this injury. Additionally, there are nerves, tendons, ligaments, and muscles that may be damaged, and the entire foot must recover for daily activities to resume. There are things that can be controlled that may help to accelerate healing. These can include stopping smoking, controlling existing medical conditions like diabetes, and reevaluating medication that may slow down the healing process. A specific type of ankle fracture is referred to as an ankle avulsion. This type of break can happen as a result of a small piece of the ankle bone being pulled away from the surrounding ligament or tendon. This generally happens from a sudden injury, and typically causes pain and discomfort. Swelling can be part of the healing process and can change daily based on the type of activity that is pursued, the time of day, and the position the foot is in. The swelling can be eased when the foot is frequently elevated, and the amount of rest and activity are balanced as desired. A broken ankle requires the expert medical attention of a podiatrist, and it is suggested that you consult with this type of doctor who can offer you the best treatment methods.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

