Strong, flexible foot arches play an important role in balance, comfort, and long-term mobility. Gentle daily stretching can help reduce tension and improve circulation in the muscles that support the arch. The towel stretch is an easy option that lengthens the plantar fascia and calf by gently pulling the foot toward the body while seated. Another effective technique is the ball roll, which massages the arch and helps release tight tissue by slowly rolling the sole of the foot over a small ball. While these stretches can be helpful, persistent pain or stiffness may signal an underlying issue. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics, identify contributing conditions, and create a personalized treatment plan that may include custom orthotics or advanced care. If you have pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, which may include additional arch stretches. 

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels are a common foot concern that often worsens during winter when cold air and low humidity dry the skin. Hot showers can strip natural oils from the feet, increasing dryness and making the skin less flexible. Walking barefoot on hard surfaces places repeated pressure on the heel, causing thickened skin to split. Symptoms include rough texture, visible cracks, discomfort, and, in severe cases, pain or bleeding. Without proper care, cracks may deepen and raise the risk of infection. A podiatrist can assess skin health, safely remove thickened tissue, and recommend medical grade moisturizers, protective footwear, and preventive care routines. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer 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 one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors 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 Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As the body changes with age, the feet often feel the effects first because they carry the weight of every step. Skin may become thinner and drier, toenails may thicken, and flexibility can decrease, making routine care more important. Many older adults experience reduced sensation or slower healing, which means small issues like corns, cracks, or nail problems can progress more quickly than expected. Choosing supportive footwear, moisturizing regularly, and checking the feet each day for redness, swelling, or pressure spots can help maintain comfort and stability. Gentle stretching and staying active can also improve circulation and mobility. Being consistent with foot care supports safer movement and overall well-being. If you notice persistent discomfort, skin changes, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for individualized guidance.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot ulcers require specialized care to remove dead tissue and promote healthy healing. Different types of wound care are used depending on the severity and condition of the ulcer. Sharp debridement uses sterile instruments to remove damaged tissue quickly and precisely. Autolytic and enzymatic methods rely on moisture or natural enzymes to help the body clear away unhealthy tissue more gradually. Mechanical debridement, which uses gentle cleansing or dressing changes, can aid in removing debris, though it must be performed carefully to protect healthy skin. For deeper or infected ulcers, hydrosurgical techniques may be used to target damaged tissue with pressurized saline for improved precision. A podiatrist can evaluate the ulcer, determine which type of wound care is most effective, and monitor healing progress. If you have a foot ulcer that will not heal, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.