Cracked heels, a common issue for diabetics, are often caused by dry skin, reduced circulation, and nerve changes that decrease the ability to feel early symptoms. The heels may look thickened, flaky, or split with visible fissures, and they may feel sore, tight, or tender when standing or walking. In some cases, the cracks can deepen and increase the risk of infection, especially when blood flow is compromised. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight, while causes often involve pressure from standing, open backed footwear, and reduced skin moisture. A podiatrist can assist by assessing sensation, circulation, and skin integrity, followed by a clear diagnosis and a personalized care plan. Treatment options include regular debridement of thick skin, protective dressings, footwear advice, and orthotic support to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas. If you have diabetes and are dealing with painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with 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 Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. 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 offices located in Bronx, NY Yonkers, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken foot refers to a fracture in one or more bones of the foot that disrupts normal movement and weight-bearing. Healing time can vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture, overall health, and how well the foot is protected during recovery. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty standing or walking. Causes often involve falls, sports injuries, repetitive stress, or direct impact. Risk factors include osteoporosis, overuse, wearing improper footwear, and high-impact activities. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the injury using a physical examination and imaging, create a personalized treatment plan, and monitor healing progress. If you have symptoms of a broken foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. 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 Bronx, NY Yonkers, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot or lower leg that often occur in runners, basketball players, or dancers due to repetitive impact, overuse, or sudden increases in activity intensity. They may not be immediately visible but can cause localized pain that worsens with weight bearing, swelling, tenderness, or bruising. Many individuals notice discomfort that improves with rest but returns during activity, making early recognition important. Stress fractures commonly affect the metatarsals, especially the second and third, due to repetitive pressure during jumping or dancing. A podiatrist can evaluate suspected stress fractures through a thorough physical examination and imaging, such as X-rays or an MRI, to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other injuries. Treatment may include activity modification, protective footwear, orthotics, or immobilization to allow proper healing. Early intervention prevents complications and ensures a safe return to activities. If you experience persistent foot pain after activity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Bronx, NY Yonkers, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a common and acute form of inflammatory arthritis that often shows up first in the foot, especially the big toe. The toe may look red and shiny, and  feel warm, sometimes with tight skin that appears stretched. It often feels like sudden burning pain, throbbing, and extreme tenderness, even to light touch or sheets. Symptoms can arrive quickly and flare at night. Causes include high uric acid levels, kidney issues, and diets high in purines, such as red meat, shellfish, and alcohol. A podiatrist can help from the start by confirming the diagnosis through history, imaging, and laboratory testing when needed. Treatment may begin with pain relief, anti-inflammatory care and footwear advice. It may then move into long-term management, lifestyle education, and coordination with medical providers. Early care can reduce damage and recurrence. If you are dealing with painful gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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