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 Pedram Aslmand, DPM from Advanced Foot and Ankle Center. Our podiatrist 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 Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet, sometimes called fallen arches, occur when the arch on the inside of the foot is very low or absent, causing most or all of the sole to touch the ground. Some people are born with flat feet, while others develop the condition later in life. The most common type is flexible flatfoot, where an arch can be seen when sitting or standing on tiptoes but disappears when weight is placed on the foot. A less common type, called rigid flatfoot, occurs when the arch is absent at all times due to the way the bones are formed. Flat feet can also develop during adulthood as a result of tendon problems, injury, or certain neurological conditions. While some people have no symptoms, others may experience foot pain, fatigue, or difficulty with prolonged standing and walking. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure and function of the feet, analyze walking patterns, and recommend appropriate treatment. This may include supportive footwear, stretching exercises, or custom orthotics. If flat feet are causing discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Pedram Aslmand, DPM from Advanced Foot and Ankle Center. Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

The foot contains many joints that work together to create balance, movement, and shock absorption with every step. Some foot joints help the foot bend smoothly during walking, while others provide stability when standing or pushing forward. The joints in the middle of the foot help maintain arch support and adjust to uneven surfaces. Toe joints assist with balance and the final push that moves the body ahead. The ankle works closely with these structures to control motion and help distribute pressure across the foot. When one joint becomes stiff, inflamed, injured, or misaligned, other areas may work harder to compensate, which can lead to pain or changes in walking patterns. A podiatrist can evaluate how the foot moves as a connected system and identify areas contributing to discomfort or instability. If walking becomes painful or unsteady, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Pedram Aslmand, DPM from Advanced Foot and Ankle Center. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, most often between the toes. It usually begins with itching, redness, and a burning feeling that can worsen after wearing shoes for long periods of time. The skin may appear dry, cracked, or flaky, and in some cases small blisters can form. This condition develops when fungus grows in warm, damp environments, such as sweaty socks or shared surfaces like locker rooms. Simple habits like using clean towels and changing socks often can help reduce risk, but infections can still occur. Without proper care, symptoms may spread or lead to secondary skin problems. A podiatrist can identify the infection, determine its severity, and provide targeted treatments that clear the fungus and protect the skin. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Pedram Aslmand, DPM from Advanced Foot and Ankle Center.  Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.