Facts About Cracked Heels

Cracked heels, medically termed heel fissures, are characterized by dry, flaky skin and fissures, or splits, in the skin around the heels. This condition often occurs when the skin on the heels becomes excessively dry and loses its elasticity, leading to cracks that can be painful and unsightly. Several factors contribute to the development of cracked heels, including prolonged standing, walking barefoot, wearing open-back shoes, or exposure to harsh weather conditions. Additionally, factors such as obesity, diabetes, and certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can increase the risk of cracked heels. Lack of proper foot care, including inadequate moisturizing or exfoliation, can worsen the problem. Left untreated, cracked heels may deepen, leading to bleeding, infection, and discomfort while walking or standing. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can successfully treat this condition by prescribing medication.

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 specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. 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.