Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heel becomes dry, thick, and splits under pressure. The heel supports body weight during standing and walking, which makes it more prone to stress and skin breakdown. When the skin loses moisture and elasticity, it can no longer stretch properly, leading to visible cracks. While mild cases may only affect the surface, more severe fissures can deepen and cause discomfort or complications if not treated.

Symptoms of cracked heels include dry, rough skin around the heel, visible splitting, and a hardened or callused surface. In more advanced cases, the cracks may become painful, especially when walking or standing for long periods. Deep fissures can bleed and may expose underlying tissue, increasing sensitivity. If the condition worsens, the open cracks can allow bacteria to enter, raising the risk of infection. Redness, swelling, or drainage may indicate that medical attention is needed.

The primary causes of cracked heels include dry skin, which can result from environmental factors or lack of proper hydration. Walking barefoot can increase pressure on the heel and contribute to skin thickening and splitting. Wearing shoes that do not provide proper support or cushioning can also place added stress on the heel. Standing for extended periods of time and exposure to harsh conditions can further reduce skin flexibility and lead to fissure formation.

Risk factors for cracked heels include aging, obesity, and medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders that affect skin health. Poor foot hygiene and lack of regular moisturizing can also increase the likelihood of developing heel fissures. Maintaining proper foot care, including hydration and wearing supportive footwear, can help prevent this condition. Early care is important to avoid complications and improve comfort. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, 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 Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & 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 Whiting and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain can affect people of all ages and make everyday activities more difficult. Because the feet support the body's weight and absorb impact with every step, discomfort can interfere with walking, working, and exercise. Foot pain may develop suddenly after an injury or gradually. Common causes include arthritis, nerve problems, and overuse injuries. Some people experience aching, burning, or sharp pain. Others notice swelling, stiffness, or tenderness that limits normal movement. The location of the pain may vary depending on the underlying condition, making a professional evaluation important for identifying the cause and recommending the most appropriate treatment.

The feet contain many bones, joints, and muscles that work together to provide stability and movement. When one structure is injured or not functioning properly, it can affect the way the entire foot moves. Ongoing foot pain may cause a person to change the way they walk, placing additional stress on the ankles, knees, and hips. This altered movement may also contribute to discomfort in the lower back. A thorough examination helps determine whether symptoms are related to inflammation, joint dysfunction, or another underlying condition. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before the problem worsens and affects long-term mobility.

A podiatrist is specially trained to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the feet and ankles. During an evaluation, the podiatrist examines foot structure, walking patterns, and joint function to identify the source of the pain. Treatment is personalized and focuses on improving mobility, relieving discomfort, and restoring healthy foot function. Early podiatry care may also help prevent additional strain on nearby joints and reduce the risk of future complications. If foot pain is limiting your daily activities or making it uncomfortable to walk, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Toenail fungus is an infection that changes the appearance and strength of the nail. It usually begins at the edge of the nail and slowly spreads deeper. The affected nail can become yellow, white, or brown. It may also become thicker, brittle, or crumbly, making it harder to trim. In some cases, the nail can lift away from the skin underneath. Although the infection is not always painful at first, discomfort can develop as the nail thickens. Toenail fungus usually affects the big toe, but it can spread to other toenails. Because the infection rarely clears on its own, early evaluation by a podiatrist helps prevent it from becoming more difficult to treat.

Warm, damp environments allow fungus to grow more easily. People are at greater risk if they have athlete’s foot, damaged nails, or certain long-term health conditions like diabetes. Spending long periods of time in shoes that keep the feet hot and sweaty can also increase the chance of infection. A podiatrist examines the nail and may take a small sample to confirm that fungus is causing the problem before recommending treatment. This step helps identify the infection correctly because other nail conditions can look similar. An accurate diagnosis also helps guide the most effective treatment plan.

A podiatrist creates a treatment plan based on the severity of the infection and the condition of the nail. Treatment includes prescription antifungal medicine, medicated nail lacquer, and professional nail care. Regular follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healthy nail growth and adjust treatment when necessary. Early treatment helps reduce the chance of the infection spreading to other nails and improves the opportunity for a healthier-looking nail to grow back. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact Scott Amoss, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Whiting and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are bony bumps that develop at the base of the big toe, while the joint gradually shifts out of its normal position. As the big toe moves toward the smaller toes, the joint becomes more prominent and may become painful over time. Bunions often develop slowly and may be influenced by inherited foot structure, arthritis, or long-term pressure on the joint. As the deformity progresses, walking and wearing shoes can become increasingly uncomfortable. The skin over the bunion may become irritated, and the surrounding joint may lose flexibility. Because bunions tend to worsen without proper care, a professional evaluation is important to determine the severity of the problem and recommend appropriate treatment. Early podiatry care may also help preserve joint function and reduce discomfort.

Symptoms of a bunion vary depending on its size and progression. Many people experience pain, swelling, or redness around the base of the big toe. Others notice stiffness or difficulty bending the toe during walking. As the joint changes shape, shoes may fit poorly and place additional pressure on the affected area. Some individuals also develop corns or calluses because the toes begin rubbing against one another. Ongoing discomfort can interfere with work, exercise, and everyday activities. Identifying the problem early allows treatment to begin before the deformity continues to progress and affects overall foot function.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating bunions and other foot conditions that affect mobility. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates the alignment of the foot, reviews symptoms, and determines the extent of the bunion before creating an individualized treatment plan. Treatment focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function, and slowing further changes to the affected joint whenever possible. Early podiatry care may also help patients remain active and improve overall foot health. If you are experiencing bunion pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Scott Amoss, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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