Cracked heel fissures develop when the skin on the heel becomes excessively dry and thick, leading to visible splits that can affect both comfort and mobility. The heel is designed to absorb shock and support body weight, but when the skin barrier is compromised, it cannot handle pressure effectively. This condition is frequently seen in individuals who spend long hours on their feet or who lack proper foot support. While mild cases may appear as simple dryness, untreated fissures can deepen and lead to more serious complications. Understanding this condition is important for maintaining both skin health and overall foot function.

Common symptoms include dry, scaly skin that appears along the edges of the heel, often accompanied by a yellow or thickened callus. As the condition progresses, cracks may form and create discomfort during walking. Pain is typically more noticeable when pressure is applied, especially after long periods of standing. In severe cases, the fissures may bleed or become inflamed, increasing the risk of infection. Some individuals also experience itching or sensitivity in the affected area. Recognizing these symptoms early allows for more effective management and improved comfort.

Risk factors for cracked heels vary and often involve both lifestyle and health related influences. Individuals who walk barefoot or wear poorly cushioned footwear are more likely to develop excessive pressure on the heels. Obesity increases the load placed on the foot, which can stretch and weaken the skin. Chronic conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders may impair skin integrity and healing. Additionally, reduced hydration, whether from environmental exposure or inadequate skin care, further increases vulnerability. These combined factors create an environment where the skin is more likely to crack under stress.

The causes of cracked heels are primarily linked to the loss of moisture and repeated mechanical pressure. When the skin becomes dehydrated, it loses flexibility and becomes rigid, making it easier to split. Continuous pressure from standing or walking forces the skin to expand, worsening the fissures. Management includes restoring moisture with specialized creams, using supportive shoes, and avoiding behaviors that increase strain on the heel. Routine foot care and early intervention are essential for prevention. If you have cracked heels that have become painful, it is suggested you seek care from a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment, 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 Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, especially between the toes where moisture tends to build up. The condition develops when fungi grow in warm, damp environments. It can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, socks, shoes, or shared areas like locker rooms and public showers. Common symptoms include itching, redness, and burning. Some people experience peeling skin, scaling, or an unpleasant odor. People who sweat heavily, wear tight or non-breathable footwear, and spend long periods in damp shoes may be at greater risk of developing athlete’s foot. A weakened immune system can also be a factor. Without proper treatment, the infection can spread to other areas of the foot or even to the toenails. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose athlete’s foot, recommend effective treatment options, and provide guidance on foot hygiene and footwear choices to help prevent future infections. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disease develops when blood flow to the legs and feet becomes reduced, often because arteries become narrowed, over time. In the feet, this may appear as pain during walking that improves with rest, coldness compared with the other foot, and slow-healing sores, in addition to skin color changes, or thinning, fragile skin. Some people notice reduced hair growth on the legs or feet, thickened nails, numbness, or weakness. As circulation worsens, pain may occur even while resting, especially at night. Because reduced blood flow can delay healing and increase the risk of serious complications, early recognition is important. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation, examine skin and nail changes, and identify warning signs that need further medical attention. If you notice foot pain with walking, unexplained wounds, or changes in skin temperature or color, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that supports the arch along the bottom of the foot. It develops when this tissue becomes overstretched or overused. Causes often include foot arch problems, running long distances, obesity, and a tight Achilles tendon that increases strain on the heel. Symptoms include sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning, along with stiffness and tenderness. Risk factors include repetitive activity, poor footwear, and limited flexibility. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend supportive shoes, stretching exercises, and other treatments to reduce discomfort. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis. 

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.