Cracked heels can simply be due to dry skin. However, walking barefoot, callus buildup, wearing shoes that do not have sufficient heel support, and aging can also lead to cracked heels. More seriously, cracked heels can occur from other medical conditions including diabetes, fungal infections, or deficiencies in vitamins C, B3, or E. This condition can be painful and even start to bleed. In addition to wearing supportive footwear and moisturizing the feet, tending to a diet that provides sufficient nutrients and vitamins is recommended to prevent this affliction. If you have cracked heels and they are worsening, bleeding, or appear infected, contact a chiropodist as soon as you can.
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 Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician 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.
