Cracked heels develop when the skin around the heel becomes dry, thickened, and begins to split. These cracks, also called fissures, often appear along the outer edge of the heel where pressure is greatest. The problem usually begins with a buildup of hard skin known as a callus. As pressure increases beneath the heel, the fatty tissue that cushions the foot spreads outward, placing stress on the surrounding skin. When the skin lacks enough flexibility, small cracks may form. Several factors contribute to cracked heels, including prolonged standing, excess body weight, and wearing open-backed shoes. Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, may also increase the likelihood of developing heel fissures. People with diabetes may be more vulnerable to complications from cracked skin. Understanding these causes helps explain why heel cracks sometimes worsen over time.

Symptoms of cracked heels vary depending on the severity of the skin damage. Early signs often include dry, rough skin and thickened areas around the heel. The affected skin may appear yellow or dark brown as calluses develop. Small cracks may initially cause little discomfort, but deeper fissures often become painful when walking or standing. Continued pressure may cause the cracks to widen and extend into deeper layers of skin. In more severe cases, the skin may bleed or become infected. Infection may cause additional redness, swelling, and discomfort around the affected area. Cracked heels are particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes because reduced sensation in the feet may make injuries difficult to notice. Deep fissures may also increase the risk of developing foot ulcers. Recognizing these changes is important for preventing further complications.

Podiatric care focuses on treating damaged heel skin and addressing the factors contributing to repeated cracking. A podiatrist examines the heels to determine the severity of the fissures and identify areas of excessive pressure. Treatment may involve carefully removing thickened skin to reduce discomfort and improve flexibility. A podiatrist may also recommend specialized moisturizing treatments or protective dressings to support healing. For deeper cracks, medical-grade tissue adhesives may help hold the skin together. Supportive insoles or heel cups may be recommended to distribute pressure more evenly across the heel. Treatment recommendations depend on the condition of the skin and any underlying health concerns. If cracked heels are causing pain or interfering with walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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 David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and 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 Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can cause pain, redness, and tenderness along the nail border. Drainage or infection may develop. Wearing tight shoes can press against the nail and worsen irritation. Walking may become uncomfortable, especially when the toe rubs against footwear. Other causes include cutting nails too short, rounding the corners, or having naturally curved nails. People who sweat heavily or put repeated pressure on the toes may also face greater risk.

Many ingrown toenails improve with early care, but surgery may be recommended when pain continues or the nail repeatedly grows into the skin. A podiatrist may suggest surgery when there is a significant infection, recurring inflammation, or a nail shape that makes conservative care unsuccessful. Surgery can provide longer-lasting relief by removing the portion of the nail causing the problem. It may make daily activities more comfortable.

During a nail procedure, the podiatrist first numbs the toe with a local anesthetic. For a partial nail avulsion, only the affected edge of the nail is carefully removed. This preserves the healthy portion. A complete nail avulsion removes the entire toenail and may be considered when the whole nail is causing problems. The podiatrist may also treat the nail root to reduce regrowth. The toe is then cleaned and covered with a dressing.

Healing usually involves keeping the toe clean and following the podiatrist's instructions for dressing changes. Wearing roomy shoes can reduce pressure while the toe heals. Avoiding unnecessary pressure can support recovery. Your podiatrist may also recommend limiting activities that place stress on the toe. If you have a painful ingrown toenail that needs surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this procedure is right for you. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors 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 Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Burning pain near your ankle can make movement uncomfortable. One possible cause is tarsal tunnel syndrome, which develops when a nerve becomes squeezed inside a narrow passage along the inner ankle. This passage is called the tarsal tunnel. The nerve provides feeling to the sole of the foot. When pressure builds around it, you might notice tingling, numbness, or sharp pain. Discomfort can spread from the ankle into the arch or sole. Symptoms can affect one foot or both. They may worsen with activity and ease with rest.

Several factors can increase pressure inside the tarsal tunnel. Flat feet can cause the ankle to roll inward, placing extra strain on nearby tissues. A sudden increase in running or other demanding activity can also trigger symptoms. Swelling around ankle tendons may crowd the nerve. Other causes include excess weight or a cyst. Because these symptoms can resemble other foot problems, an accurate diagnosis matters. A podiatrist can examine your foot, review when the discomfort began, and check how your ankle moves. In some cases, an MRI scan or nerve test can help confirm the cause.

Treatment focuses on relieving nerve pressure and improving comfort. A podiatrist may recommend supportive shoes that help control inward foot movement. Custom shoe inserts can improve foot position and reduce strain around the ankle. A podiatrist also guides targeted stretching and strengthening exercises or recommends a brace for additional support. Early evaluation helps guide care. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

A broken foot occurs when one or more bones in the foot are fractured. This type of injury can happen after a fall, sports injury, or sudden impact. Some fractures occur without the bone breaking through the skin, while an open fracture happens when the broken bone pushes through the skin. Pain, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the foot can occur after an injury. Some patients also notice tenderness or changes in how the foot looks. The location and type of fracture help determine how serious the injury is and what treatment the foot requires.

A podiatrist can examine the injured foot and determine the location and type of fracture. Imaging can help provide a clearer view of the broken bone and guide treatment. Depending on the injury, treatment can include a splint, cast, or protective shoe. Some fractures require surgery to place the bones in the correct position and support proper healing. A podiatrist can also monitor the foot during follow-up visits and check for changes in pain, swelling, or sensation. A fracture can take several weeks to heal, so professional follow-up is an important part of care.

Certain symptoms after a foot injury require prompt attention. New or worsening pain, a foot that becomes pale or cool, or numbness and tingling in the toes can signal a problem that needs evaluation. A cast or splint that feels too tight also requires attention. A podiatrist can assess these concerns and determine whether the foot is healing as expected. Professional care can also help identify problems that could affect the foot’s function or ability to bear weight. Getting the injury evaluated can provide a clearer understanding of the fracture and the treatment needed for recovery. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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