How to treat dry cracked heels

Dry cracked heels can be an unpleasant and painful foot problem. If left untreated, cracked heels can develop into deep fissures that can be difficult to treat and make walking painful.

It can be easy to neglect our feet but a good foot care routine needn't be complicated. Washing and drying the feet carefully and applying a special heel balm can help keep dry cracked heels at bay.

What causes dry cracked heels?

There are many causes of dry feet and cracked heels. Prolonged standing or excess weight can put pressure on the fatty pad that cushions the sole.

If the skin is not supple it will widen and crack. Heels that are dry, thick and callused around the rim can be more difficult to treat.

Symptoms of cracked heels:

• Hardening of the skin on the edge of heel
• Painful cracked areas that can bleed
• Itchy, peeling or cracked skin on heels or feet
• Heel appears yellow or brown in colour

Dry feet and heels can sometimes be a matter of poor foot care or a consequence of a cold dry climate. For others, cracked dry heels can be associated with a more serious health problem.

Nerve damage commonly affects the feet of people with diabetes or poor circulation making it harder to detect small cracks and cuts.

Left untreated cracks can develop into deep fissures that provide an entry way for harmful bacteria. For people with diabetes, dry cracked heels can easily become infected and lead to serious illness.

Treating dry cracked heels

Fortunately there's lots you can to prevent dry cracked heels. People who suffer from diabetes, peripheal vascular disease or the frail aged should have their feet checked regularly by a podiatrist.
 

Foot care tips for dry cracked heels:

• Wash and dry the feet thoroughly every day, paying close attention to between the toes.
   
• Keep skin soft and supple by using a specialised heel balm. Normal moisturisers generally do not penetrate thick dry skin.
   
• See a podiatrist for treatment of calluses, corns and deep cracks.

• Wear protective shoes that cover the feet and prevent skin damage.

• Keep an eye out for small ulcers and cuts that could lead to infection.
   
• See your doctor if the skin on the feet or heels appear red, is hot to touch, swollen or painful. 

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