Another term for Cracked Heels is heal fissures and this is a
common foot problem for many people
Cracked heels are commonly caused by dry skin (xerosis).
The problem of cracked heels is made more complicated if the skin
around the rim of the heel is thick (callus). For most people, cracked
heels are a nuisance and a cosmetic problem. When the fissures or
cracks associated with cracked heels are deep, they are painful
to stand on and the skin can bleed - in severe cases this can become
infected. The skin of cracked heels is normally dry and may have
a thick callus that appears as yellow or dark brown area of skin,
especially along the inside border of the heel.
Some of the factors that can cause cracked heels include:
- Prolonged standing
- Being overweight
- Open backs on shoes
- Skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczem
You can treat cracked heels by applying a moisturizing cream to
the heels at least twice a day. You can also use an Emory board
to rub the heels and try to reduce the thickness of the skin. You
should never try to remove the thick skin of cracked heels with
a razor or sharp object as this only increases the soreness of the
cracked heels and opens the cuts to infection. A podiatrist will
be able to safely remove the hardened skin around the cracked heels
and prescribe a special cream to use for the cracked heels. The
podiatrist will also give advice about insoles or a special heel
cup to wear in the footwear to make walking more comfortable on
cracked heels.
Please feel free to browse the menu on this page if you wish to
find out more about cracked heels.
|
