Cracked heels are a painful and unsightly issue that affects many. Don’t worry, this article is here to help. Discover why cracked heels occur, and how to get rid of them. It’s time to bid farewell to cracked heels and welcome back smooth, comfy feet!
Introduction
Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are common. Dry skin on the foot is the cause. This leads to cracking or splitting of the skin on the heel or sides. The cracks can be thick and painful. Plus, it’s often embarrassing due to the noticeable unsightly appearance.
This guide has two sections. One explains why cracked heels occur. The other is about how to treat them. Knowing why we get cracked heels makes appropriate treatment easier to understand and use.
Causes of Cracked Heels
Cracked heels, or heel fissures, are often caused by a combination of things. Not enough moisture, and too much time in water and hot climates, can be triggers. Loose-fitting shoes can also cause too much pressure on the heels, leading to cracks and blisters. Medical conditions like diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, psoriasis, or eczema can also impact your body’s healing abilities. People with dry skin, too, have a greater risk for cracked skin on the feet due to their skin’s inability to retain moisture. Lastly, age can reduce your skin’s elasticity and result in cracked heels.
Symptoms of Cracked Heels
Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common foot condition. They cause dryness and discomfort, and in some cases even bleeding.
They happen when the skin on the heel of the foot is dry and thick, forming cracks. Several things can lead to this, such as wearing shoes without proper support or cushioning in the heel area. Or excessive standing/walking, weight increases, athlete’s foot/other fungal infections, or open wounds from blisters/cuts.
Symptoms of Cracked Heels:
- Dry, cracked and flaky skin on the heels
- Red patches of skin from inflammation
- Pain during walking/activity
- Swelling/peeling of skin around heels
- Itching throughout feet/legs
- Bleeding if cracks are deep enough.
Risk Factors for Cracked Heels
Cracked heels can be caused by many conditions. Knowing the risk factors and causes can help prevent them. Common risk factors include:
- wearing open-back shoes without socks
- being overweight
- diabetes
- standing or walking barefoot on hard surfaces
- dry skin
- harsh soaps
- not drinking enough fluids
- hot water baths
- exposure to extreme temperatures
- contact with irritants
- chemical solvents
- certain medical treatments, like radiation
To reduce risk, take preventative measures such as:
- proper hydration
- reducing exposure to extreme temps
- wearing socks
- applying moisturizer
- avoiding harsh soaps
- monitoring medical treatments
Prevention of Cracked Heels
To prevent cracked heels, maintain good hygiene. Here are some tips:
- Moisturize twice daily with thick cream or ointment.
- Avoid hot showers and baths.
- Wear open-back shoes.
- Put a cushion under your feet when standing for long periods.
- Ask your doctor if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
- Exercise regularly.
- Switch to natural cleaning products that are free from added dyes and fragrances.
By taking these steps, you can protect your heels from cracking!
Home Remedies for Cracked Heels
Cracked heels can be an eyesore and sometimes cause pain. The skin on your feet is usually dry, and indoor air can make them drier. Long periods of standing, tough soaps, inappropriate shoes, or genes can lead to cracks in your heels. But, you don’t need to go to a doctor. Here are some home remedies!
- Keep them clean and dry. Use mild soap and pat them dry.
- Before bed, put on lotion or oil. This will keep the skin soft.
- Wear sandals or slippers with good arch support, not barefoot.
- Exfoliate a few days each week. Use a scrub to remove dead cells.
- Also at night, wear thick socks with a thick layer of moisturizer.
- Soak in warm water with salt. This exfoliates, and keeps skin soft.
Following these tips should improve your cracked heels over time!
Medical Treatments for Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are a common issue. They may not hurt, but can turn serious if left untreated. Seek medical advice if the issue persists.
Dry skin normally causes cracked heels, due to inadequate hydration or moisturizing. Treatments can involve: softening skin with moisturizers and hydrating, or exfoliating dead skin away.
- Moisturizing treatments include: petroleum jelly, creams, wax petals and oils. They contain lactic acid, urea and salicylic acid to heal dry skin.
- Hydrating treatments involve: 15-20 mins in a warm water bath with oatmeal or Epsom salt. Repeat several times a week until healed.
- Exfoliation involves: scrubbing with a pumice stone several times a week. Chemical peels can be used when other methods fail. Apply special acid soaked pads then wash off after set time.
Practice self-care over long periods and seek medical advice to avoid recurrence of cracked heels. Keep feet healthy and conditioned year round!
Conclusion
Cracked heels come in all shapes and sizes. The easiest way to avoid them is by preventing them with hygiene and moisturizing. But if you already have them, get medical help to find out the cause and create a plan. Feet are critical for comfort and moving around, so make sure to give them the best care!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is a cracked heel?
A1: Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are deep splits or cracks in the skin of your heel. These splits can be very painful and can cause discomfort while walking or standing.
Q2: What causes cracked heels?
A2: The most common cause of cracked heels is lack of moisture in the skin. Other causes include wearing ill-fitting shoes, being overweight, and having an underlying medical condition such as diabetes or an immune disorder.
Q3: How can I treat cracked heels?
A3: The best way to treat cracked heels is to keep your feet moisturized. A few ways to do this include using a foot cream or lotion, soaking your feet in warm water with Epsom salts, and exfoliating your feet with a pumice stone.
