CRACKED HEELS

Cracked Heels

Cracked Heels and Dry Skin

Dealing with cracked heels and dry feet? Don't worry, you're not alone! This foot problem happens when the skin on the bottom of your heel gets dry and cracks. It might not be the prettiest sight, but if left untreated, those cracks can get worse and even lead to pain and infection.


At Pinnacle Podiatry, we can help you heal those cracked feet, ease any discomfort, and give you tips on preventing them in the future.

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Cracked Heels Causes

If the skin around your heels dries out, it can lose its smoothness and flexibility, which may result in cracking. This often happens because of a build-up of dead skin known as heel calluses. 

Wearing certain types of shoes like sandals or going barefoot can contribute to cracked heels by exposing the skin to callus formation. This is a common issue, especially in the summer months.


Dry skin is the main cause of cracked heels. When the skin around the heel becomes thick and dry, pressure on the heel can lead to cracking. Factors like fungal infections, medical conditions, medications, and certain footwear choices can also play a role.


Cracked heels develop in stages, starting with the formation of calluses and eventually leading to deep cracks that can be painful and even cause infections. It's important to take care of your feet to prevent this from happening, especially if you have diabetes.

Cracked Heels Treatment

Want to get rid of that pesky heel callus? Make an appointment with your friendly Podiatrist at Pinnacle Podiatry. It's important to stay on top of regular treatments to prevent any potential issues. 


Some treatments we may suggest include creams to keep your skin moisturised and healthy or an antiseptic liquid for deep or infected cracks.


When it comes to footwear, make sure you're wearing the right kind to avoid worsening the problem. Opt for enclosed-heel sandals instead of thongs, and try to wear socks or stockings whenever possible. Drinking enough water and including essential fatty acids in your diet can also help keep your skin hydrated.


If you're not seeing any improvement with at-home treatments or if you're in a lot of pain, don't hesitate to visit Pinnacle Podiatry. We can help by removing the thick skin, providing bandaging or strapping, or prescribing ointments or creams if needed. Don't wait - take care of your heels and keep them healthy and happy!

FAQS

Here are answers to some common questions about cracked heels and dry feet. 

  • Do podiatrists treat cracked heels?

    Yes, podiatrists will help by removing the thick skin, providing bandaging or strapping, or prescribing ointments or creams if needed. 

  • How to fix cracked heels?

    To heal cracked heels at home, moisturise the skin and opt for enclosed heel sandals instead of thongs. When seeing a podiatrist, we can help by treating and removing the cracked skin, bandaging or strapping.

  • What causes cracked heels?

    As discussed above, there are numerous causes of cracked heels. Some include barefoot walking, medical conditions like diabetes, fungal skin infections, and hot baths or showers that dry out skin.

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