Cracked Heels
Is the skin on your feet dry? Are your heels
cracked? Dry, cracked heels are a common problem that most
people look at as a nuisance or a cosmetic problem that makes them
want to hide their feet. However, cracks, also known as
fissures, can be a problem if the skin around the edge of the heel
is thick (callused) and can become more complicated it the skin
bleeds or it is painful to stand. In more severe cases, the
skin can become infected.
Signs and Symptoms
Dry, cracked heels. Some people are more prone to cracked
heels because they have naturally dry skin. For some people,
the callus around the rim of the heel is more likey to crack and
even possible bleed for a variety of factors. Some of those
factors include prolonged standing, being overweight, or
wearing shoes that open to the back (especially flip flops!).
Other skin and medical conditions can also lead to dry, cracked
heels such as eczema, psoriasis, underactive thyroid and
diabetes.
Treatment
For mild cases, applying an oil based moisturizer at least twice
a day is essential. A pumice stone is helpful in removing
some of the thickness. Also, wearing quality socks and well
fitting shoes will help combat the problem. For more severe
cases, our podiatrist can remove, or debride, some of the callused
skin, and provide stronger cremes that actually helps dissolve some
of the thick skin.
Some Learning Library text is derived from Wikipedia. All text is Creative Commons licensed Share and Share Alike.