Dry, cracked heels, or heel fissures, often worsen during warm weather due to increased activity and environmental exposure. Open-backed shoes like sandals offer little protection or support for the heel, allowing the skin to dry out and split. Warm temperatures and outdoor activities can lead to more time spent walking barefoot or in thin-soled footwear, which places more pressure on the heel. Excessive sweating followed by rapid evaporation also contributes to skin dryness. Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces during summer outings adds to the stress placed on the skin of the feet. Swimmers and beachgoers may experience dry skin from continuous water exposure, which strips the skin of natural oils. A podiatrist can help treat dry, cracked heels and reduce the risk of infection or deeper skin damage. If your heels are cracking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. 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 offices located in Abilene, and Brownwood, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Osteoporosis weakens foot bones by lowering their mineral density, making the feet more vulnerable to stress fractures and deformities. The bones in the feet are under constant pressure during walking and standing, and weakened bone structure increases the risk of small, fatigue-related foot fractures. In some patients, uneven posture or poor gait can worsen this by concentrating pressure on specific areas of the foot. Osteoporosis may also contribute to changes in foot shape due to bone loss, leading to pain and mobility issues. A podiatrist can assess posture, identify areas of abnormal pressure using diagnostic imaging and pressure mapping, and recommend medical treatment to reduce fracture risk. In some cases, surgery may be needed if fractures occur or deformities become severe. Ongoing monitoring may be necessary to catch early signs of deterioration and avoid complications, especially in older adults and people with diabetes. If the bones in your feet are cracking, 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 Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 offices located in Abilene, and Brownwood, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hallux rigidus is a form of degenerative arthritis that affects the joint at the base of the big toe, leading to pain and stiffness. This condition often develops gradually and can make activities like walking, running, or even standing for long periods uncomfortable. Over time, the joint may become increasingly stiff, and movement may be limited, making it difficult to bend the toe. Swelling and inflammation surrounding the joint are also common. Hallux rigidus can result from repeated stress, structural abnormalities, or previous injuries. Wearing supportive shoes with a stiff sole and avoiding high-impact activities may help relieve symptoms. Early recognition and management of hallux rigidus are important in preventing further joint damage and maintaining quality of life. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM of Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Abilene, and Brownwood, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.