Cracked heels, or heel fissures, are common skin splits caused by dryness and thickened skin on the heel’s edges. These cracks often result from prolonged pressure or lack of moisture, making the skin lose elasticity and resilience. While anyone can develop cracked heels, they are more common in women due to factors like hormonal changes, which affect skin hydration, and lifestyle habits such as wearing open-backed shoes or high heels, which increase pressure on the heels. Cracked heels can worsen with standing for long hours, obesity, or walking barefoot. Preventing them involves regular moisturizing with thick creams or balms, exfoliating dead skin, and wearing supportive, closed shoes. Relief includes removing hardened skin with a pumice stone and using intensive foot creams. If you have severe cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist to avoid infection and restore comfort.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
