Cracked heels after running are a common foot concern that occurs when the skin around the heel becomes dry, thick, and unable to stretch normally. Repeated impact from running places extra stress on the heel skin. For some runners, the problem begins with sensitive, dry feet that feel rough or tight after exercise. Itching may develop as the skin becomes irritated. Without proper care, the skin progresses to peeling and painful cracks, or fissures. In more advanced cases, the deeper cracks may bleed and become vulnerable to infection.

Cracked heels develop through four stages. The first stage involves dry, rough skin that may feel uncomfortable. The second stage brings increased dryness with itching or mild peeling. During the third stage, cracks become deeper and may cause pain while walking or running. The fourth stage can involve bleeding cracks, significant tenderness, or signs of infection. Risk factors include frequent running, naturally dry skin, and footwear that does not fit well. Psoriasis can also contribute to thick, cracked skin on the feet.

Several causes can make cracked heels worse after running. Skin dehydration is a major concern because dry skin loses flexibility and can split more easily. Wearing ill-fitting shoes increases pressure or rubbing, while some socks also can create additional friction. Skin conditions such as psoriasis may further increase dryness and scaling. Moisturizing regularly and choosing comfortable running shoes can help protect the heel skin.

A podiatrist determines why your heels are cracking and checks for deeper skin damage. Treatment options include removing thickened skin, recommending a medical moisturizer, and protecting open cracks while they heal. The podiatrist may also recommend types of footwear or sock changes to reduce friction. Keeping the heels moisturized and avoiding activities that worsen painful cracks can support healing. If you have painful cracked heels from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief solutions and guidance on useful prevention tips. 

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 Diagnostic Foot Specialists. 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 offices located in Houston, TX, Houston, TX, and Bryan, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Poor circulation in the feet occurs when blood does not flow efficiently through the lower legs and feet. Symptoms may include cold feet, numbness, or slow-healing sores. Some people develop leg or foot discomfort while walking that improves after resting. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, and prolonged inactivity. Sitting for long periods can also limit leg movement and may contribute to circulation concerns.

Hiking with poor circulation in the feet requires extra planning, because longer periods of walking can increase discomfort and foot stress. Choose supportive hiking shoes with enough room for your toes, wear moisture-wicking socks, and avoid footwear that feels tight. Check your feet before and after each hike for blisters, redness, or changes in color. Take regular breaks and consider shorter trails with easier terrain. Stop hiking if you experience severe pain, increasing numbness, or significant color changes.

Poor circulation may result from narrowed arteries, vein problems, or other conditions affecting blood vessels. When circulation is reduced, the feet may receive less oxygen and nutrients, which can interfere with healing. A podiatrist can check pulses, skin temperature, and areas of pressure. Treatment focuses on the underlying cause while protecting the feet from injuries and complications. Wounds may require careful cleaning, protection, and monitoring.

Between hikes, avoid sitting for long periods of time without moving your legs. Stand regularly and gently move your ankles when sitting. Keep your feet protected from extreme temperatures because reduced sensation can make injuries harder to notice. Good foot care is especially important when hiking with poor circulation. If you have poor circulation in your feet or develop symptoms while hiking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact One of our podiatrists of Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

A heel spur is a calcium deposit that develops along the underside or back of the heel bone. The most common type forms beneath the heel and may be associated with plantar fascia strain. A spur can also develop where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel. Although the growth itself may not always cause pain, surrounding tissues can become irritated.

Pain may feel sharp when taking the first steps after waking or after sitting, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. A spur may appear on an X-ray as a small, pointed or hook-shaped calcium growth. However, it cannot usually be seen through the skin. Risk factors include repetitive impact, excess body weight, and tight calf muscles.

Heel spurs develop when repeated stress causes the body to deposit calcium near an irritated attachment site. Running, jumping, and walking on hard surfaces can contribute to ongoing strain. Foot mechanics may also play a role, especially when the arch collapses excessively or the foot rolls inward. A podiatrist begins treatment by reviewing symptoms and examining the foot. X-rays may be used to identify a spur and rule out other causes when needed. Treatment can include activity changes, wearing supportive footwear, and custom orthotics, when appropriate.

Healing focuses on reducing irritation while addressing the reason the heel is under repeated stress. A podiatrist may recommend temporary activity modification and cushioning inserts to reduce pressure. If heel pain or suspected heel spurs are affecting your routine, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact One of our podiatrists from Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

Foot blisters are small, fluid-filled pockets that develop when the skin is damaged or irritated. They commonly appear in areas exposed to repeated rubbing, pressure, or moisture. Symptoms may include tenderness, redness, and a raised area filled with clear fluid. Wearing poorly fitted shoes, increasing activity quickly, or walking for long periods of time can increase the risk. Most blisters heal with protection, but recurring or unusual blisters deserve professional evaluation.

Frostbite is another possible cause of foot blisters and develops when skin and underlying tissues freeze after prolonged exposure to extreme cold. Blisters may appear after the affected area begins warming. Frostbite can also cause numbness, pale or bluish skin, and severe pain. Risk increases with extended cold exposure, wet footwear, and inadequate protection. Frostbite requires prompt medical attention because deeper tissue damage can occur. Do not intentionally pop frostbite blisters.

An allergic reaction can also cause blistering when the skin reacts to an irritating substance or allergen. New footwear materials, adhesives, or topical products may trigger contact dermatitis. Symptoms can include itching, redness, swelling, and small blisters. Fungal infections are another potential cause, particularly when athlete’s foot affects the skin between the toes. Fungal symptoms may include itching, scaling, and fluid-filled areas. Warm, damp environments and sweaty footwear increase infection risk.

A podiatrist can examine the skin, review your footwear and activities, and determine the likely cause of recurring blisters. Treatment may include protecting the area, recommending appropriate footwear, or addressing an allergic trigger. For suspected frostbite, urgent medical evaluation is important. Avoid popping blisters unless specifically directed by a podiatrist, and keep the area clean and protected. If you frequently develop blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention tips, an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact One of our podiatrists of Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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