Reasons Cracked Heels Can Develop

Mildly cracked heels may feel better when a good moisturizer is applied daily. This is a foot condition that can happen for various reasons, including standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. It may also occur from wearing shoes that have an open back, such as flip flops, or possibly from washing the feet with harsh soaps. There may be existing medical conditions that can cause cracked heels to develop. This condition may be common for diabetic patients to get, who are often aware of the serious consequences if prompt medical attention is not received. Many people who are diabetic are unable to feel cuts on their feet, and cracked skin on the heels may rapidly become infected. Some people get cracked heels from a vitamin deficiency, or from a skin or thyroid disorder. If you have cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can provide you with the correct 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.