Cracked heels develop when the skin surrounding the heels becomes dry, thick, and splits due to pressure or lack of moisture. Common causes include zinc or omega 3 vitamin deficiency, dry skin, diabetes, being overweight, fungal infections, and certain skin diseases. These factors can reduce skin elasticity and healing ability, leading to painful cracks or fissures. Symptoms include rough, flaky skin, redness, bleeding, and tenderness when walking. A chiropodist can safely remove thickened skin, treat any underlying infection, and recommend moisturizing creams or custom orthotics to reduce pressure on the heels. Regular professional care and proper foot hygiene can restore comfort and prevent recurrence. If you are struggling with cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can offer effective relief and treatment techniques.
Dry, cracked heels are more than a cosmetic inconvenience. For many people, they are uncomfortable, deep, painful, and may even bleed. If you suffer from cracked heels, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.
Causes
- Prolonged standing
- Wearing open-back shoes
- Wearing shoes that don’t cushion the heels
- Living in a cold or dry climate
- Taking long, hot showers
- Not moisturizing the heels
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Palmoplantar keratoderma
- Juvenile plantar dermatosis
Treatments
- Soaking the feet
- Exfoliating with a pumice stone
- Moisturizing the heels
- Wearing closed-back shoes that cushion heels
- Avoiding prolonged standing
- Taking warm, rather than hot, showers
- Treating underlying skin conditions
While milder cases of cracked heels can be treated at home, some patients present with deep, painful, bleeding heel fissures that are at risk of becoming infected and may require medical care. Additionally, patients with diabetes or any other conditions that affect the immune system should be monitored by a chiropodist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
