The medical condition that is known as cracked heels can often cause discomfort, and in severe cases, it may be unsightly. It occurs when the skin splits, forming cracks. Deep cracks are known as fissures. Common reasons for this to occur can include standing for extended periods of time throughout the day, or wearing shoes that have an open back. Additionally, specific medical conditions can cause this condition, including psoriasis, diabetes, and circulation issues. Patients who are overweight may notice cracked heels developing, and this may be a result of the added weight that the feet endure. Relief may be found when shoes that have a back are worn, and it can help to soak the feet in warm water. It is beneficial to exfoliate the heels, followed by applying a good moisturizer. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC from New York. 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 one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

High heels may look sexy and make the legs look longer, but a lifetime spent wearing high heels can cause a lot of damage to the feet. The angle at which the toes and ball of the foot are jammed into a pointy toe box adds undue pressure on the bottom of the foot. The higher the heel, the more pressure is added. This may result in several painful foot conditions including bunions, hammertoes, corns, calluses, and Achilles tendonitis, to name a few. Other effects in the long-term wearing of high heels is plantar fasciitis, Haglund’s deformity at the back of the heel, which is also called pump bump, knee and back pain caused by the shifting of weight, and Morton’s neuroma, which affects the nerves under the third and fourth toe. If you are experiencing any of these foot conditions and the pain is ongoing or worsening, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and discussion of treatment options. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Basketball is fast-paced and demanding, making the feet and ankles especially vulnerable to injury. The constant running, jumping, and quick direction changes place significant stress on these areas, often leading to sprains, fractures, or tendon injuries. Ankle sprains are particularly common when a player lands awkwardly after a jump or rolls the foot on another player’s shoe. Stress fractures in the foot bones may also develop from repetitive impact on hard courts. Overuse injuries, such as Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, are frequent in athletes who train heavily without adequate rest. Even minor issues like blisters or bruised toenails can sideline a player, if not properly managed. Early evaluation and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications. Wearing protective footwear, strength training, and proper warm-ups can reduce the risk. If a basketball injury is causing pain in your feet or ankles or limiting performance, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hallux rigidus is a form of arthritis that affects the big toe joint, making it stiff and painful. The condition often begins with mild discomfort when walking or bending the toe, but over time the joint loses flexibility. People may notice swelling, difficulty wearing certain shoes, or pain that worsens with activity. In advanced cases, even standing can become uncomfortable as the joint becomes increasingly rigid. This problem usually develops from wear and tear on the joint, past injuries, or inherited foot structure. Because the big toe plays a key role in movement, hallux rigidus can significantly affect mobility and daily comfort. Early treatment may include anti-inflammatory medication, shoe modifications, or custom orthotics to ease pressure. If the joint damage is more severe, surgery may be considered. If you have pain in your big toe joint, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to ensure the condition is managed properly, mobility preserved, and pain reduced.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.