About Cracked Heels

Known to the medical world as "heel fissures," cracked heels are common to people who have dry skin or those who stand on their feet for extended periods of time. Cracked heels are cosmetically annoying and sometimes can be itchy and painful. In severe cases of cracked heels, the cracks in the skin become so deep that they begin to bleed and are prone to infection.

Significance

Cracked heels occur on feet that are prone to be callused. When callused feet go untreated, the skin continuously becomes thicker. Thick skin causes the heel to expand outward when weight is applied to the foot. The expansion of skin is what causes the heel to become cracked.

Identification

Left untreated, callused heels become dark brown with discoloration. Cracking of the skin begins as thin, fragmented lines. Over time, those thin lines can become wider and deeply embedded into the skin.

Considerations

Consider using a pumice stone and a thick, moisturizing lotion daily. If cracked heels are beyond repair, consider professional treatment from a podiatrist before conditions worsen.

Prevention/Solution

Wearing properly fitted shoes will lessen the likelihood of forming calluses. If you suffer from medical conditions, such as diabetes, psoriasis or ezema, daily exfoliation of your feet can prevent cracked heels. Exfoliation is done by simply removing the dried calluses of your feet with a pumice stone.

Warning

Avoid wearing thin sole shoes and sandals. For shoes that do not have sufficient padding, you should adhere comfort soles or heel guards to the inside of your shoe. Avoid prolonged standing, whether you are at work or at home. If your job forces you to stand, try relieving the weight from your feet as often as possible.