Cracked heels occur when the skin around the heel becomes excessively dry and thick, then splits. The heels may look rough, or yellowed, with visible lines or deep fissures that can sometimes bleed. The skin often feels tight and itchy, especially when standing or walking for long periods. Causes include dry weather, prolonged standing, and certain medical conditions like diabetes or skin disorders. A podiatrist can help from the start by accurately diagnosing the severity of the cracks and identifying contributing factors. Early treatment may include safe debridement of thickened skin, prescription moisturizers, and infection prevention. Care can then progress into customized treatment plans, footwear recommendations, and long-term skin care education to prevent recurrence. Proper foot care can improve comfort and restore skin health. If you are dealing with painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Sam Sanandaji, DPM from Foot and Ankle Care Center. 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 office located in Beverly Hills, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hallux rigidus is a form of arthritis that affects the big toe joint, making it difficult and often painful to bend the toe during walking or daily activities. Many people first notice stiffness, swelling, or a sharp ache when pushing off the ground, especially in tighter shoes. As the condition progresses, the joint may lose more motion, causing persistent discomfort and changes in the way a person walks. Treatment focuses on relieving pain and protecting the joint. Wearing supportive shoes with a stiff sole, custom orthotics, and activity adjustments can reduce strain. Anti-inflammatory care or targeted exercises may also help improve comfort. In more advanced cases, surgical options can restore function or reduce pain. If you have developed this condition,it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment plan.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Sam Sanandaji, DPM of Foot and Ankle Care Center. 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 contact our office located in Beverly Hills, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Managing a diabetic foot ulcer requires a thoughtful blend of treatments that support healing while protecting the surrounding skin. Care often begins by removing unhealthy tissue to create a healthier base for recovery. Moisture balancing dressings may be chosen to keep the wound environment stable, while topical or oral medications help reduce the risk of infection. Some ulcers benefit from advanced options such as biologic materials that encourage tissue growth or specialized padding and footwear to take pressure off the injured area. Vascular health and glucose control also influence how well the ulcer responds to care. Because every wound is different, a tailored plan helps promote steady progress and lowers the chance of complications. If your ulcer is not improving or feels differently than expected, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Sam Sanandaji, DPM from Foot and Ankle Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Athlete’s foot infections affect the skin on the feet and often start between the toes or on the soles. Interdigital infections involve red, flaky patches in the spaces between the toes, where the skin can split or soften when damp. A moccasin infection affects the bottom, sides and heels of the foot and causes thick, dry and scaly skin that can look like stubborn dryness. Both types of athlete’s foot infections cause itching, burning, peeling and a strong odor. The fungus that causes the infection spreads easily on warm, damp surfaces, including locker rooms, pool decks and shower floors, especially while barefoot. Wearing tight shoes and sweaty socks give the fungus the heat and moisture it needs to thrive. A podiatrist can examine damaged areas and recommend a treatment to clear the infection. If you have symptoms of an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Sam Sanandaji, DPM from Foot and Ankle Care Center. 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 office located in Beverly Hills, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.