What exactly are they?
Cracked heels develop when there is a crack or break in the skin around the margins of the heels, which can be dry or thicker. These cracks might shut or open, which is ugly and unpleasant when standing or walking.

What Causes Them?

When we stand, walk, or run, our heels take the majority of the pressure from our bodyweight, causing the tissue under our heels to expand out and create a pushing strain on the skin around our heels.

 

Long hours of standing or wearing open back shoes can generate greater pressure and stress on the skin surrounding your heels over time. Being overweight can aggravate the situation.

 

If the skin surrounding your heels becomes dry or thicker, it loses its capacity to handle the tremendous strain and tension, causing it to break.

 

If you have dermatitis, psoriasis, diabetes, or hypothyroidism, you may be more prone to dry skin.

 

If you do not address the cracks in your heels, they might become infected, resulting in greater redness and pain.

 

 

To Treat Your Cracked Heels At Home, Follow These Steps.

If it is not too painful, lightly file the skin around your heels with an emery board or pumice stone.

 

If your heels are hurting, soak them in warm water with salt for 10 minutes (at most) to remove any germs that has built up in the creases of your skin.

 

As water can dehydrate the skin, make sure you properly dry your feet with a towel wrapped around your heels.

 

To the heels, apply an emollient containing urea, salicylic acid, or hydroxy acids. Avoid touching your toes. These emollients, which are available at your local pharmacy, are intended to lock in moisture in your feet while also softening harsh and rigid skin.

 

If your heel cracks are uncomfortable, cover them with a plaster or bandage and keep them dry for two days. If the bandage becomes moist, replace it with a new one.

 

Avoid wearing shoes with open backs. For additional support and protection around your heels, use shoes with a heel counter.

 

If you have a medical condition that affects your immune system or diabetes, you should contact your podiatrist before attempting to heal your cracked heels at home.

 

What Can a Podiatrist Help Me With?

If you have attempted all of the techniques outlined above, you may require professional assistance and should consult a podiatrist.

 

If the skin surrounding your heels has become extremely hard and thickened, a podiatrist can remove it with a scalpel, which is a highly sophisticated treatment that should only be performed by an experienced specialist.

 

Podiatrists can also apply a bandage and give heel cushions to relieve strain on your heels.

 

It is critical to keep your heels from cracking, especially if you have diabetes, which can lead to issues such as cellulitis. If you are concerned about your cracked heels, consult a podiatrist who can advise you on the best treatment option.

 

Tagged: Diabetic Footcare, Cracked Heels, Foot Care, Heel Pain, Podiatry