What You Need To Know About Cracked Heels

When there is a fissure or a break in the skin around the edges of the heels, cracking can occur. This is more likely to happen if the skin in that area of your foot is dry or thick, and these cracks can open and close, resulting in pain when standing or walking.

When we stand, walk or run, a lot of pressure is placed on our heels from our body weight, and this can cause the tissue under our heels to spread out, resulting in a pulling force on the skin around the heels. Standing for extended periods of time or wearing open back shoes can also cause cracked heels as they can place increased pressure and tension on the skin around this area. It is important to check on your heels regularly because if the skin in this area is dry or thickened, it may lose its ability to withstand such pressure and will break, so you need to monitor your feet and care for them properly.

Those who suffer from dermatitis, diabetes, psoriasis or hypothyroidism are more at risk for developing dry skin, so you would have to pay extra attention to this part of your body. If any cracks in your heels are left untreated, they may become infected, and you will experience increased redness and a lot of pain.

If you have cracked heels, there are certain steps you can take at home to help treat this condition. The first is to file the skin around your heels gently with either an emery board or pumice stone if it is not too painful. If your heels are causing you too much pain, soak them in warm water with salt for a maximum of ten minutes, as this will clear any bacteria in the cracks of your skin. Next, dry your feet thoroughly with a towel because water can dehydrate the skin and make matters worse. You will then have to apply an emollient that contains urea or salicylic acid to your heels, which can be purchased at pharmacies. They are designed to lock in moisture in your feet and will help soften your hardened skin. If the pain from the cracks is unbearable, cover them with a plaster or bandage to keep them dry for a couple of days and avoid open-back shoes. It is very important to wear the right footwear, so invest in the right shoes with the proper support.

If the situation is severe or you have a medical condition affecting your immune system or have diabetes, it is a must that you see a podiatrist before treating your cracked heels on your own because they will be able to suggest the best treatment for your needs and condition specifically.

If you require professional care, Elite Foot Care can help. Whether you require diabetic foot care or have other concerns related to your feet, we can help, so if you are in Edmonton, contact us today!