Cracked Heels Treatment

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Cracked Heels

Cracked heels happen when dry, thickened skin on the heels splits or cracks. If the cracks only affect the outer layer of skin, there may be little to no pain, though the cracks can feel uncomfortable and may catch on socks. In more severe cases, the cracks can extend into the healthy skin beneath, causing pain, bleeding, and increasing the risk of infection if not properly treated.
Dry heels with cracked heels, dry skin

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What Causes Cracked Heels?

When the skin around the heel becomes dry, it loses its flexibility and elasticity, leading to splits and cracks. These cracks often occur alongside calluses, which are thickened layers of dead skin. Thick calluses can result in deep and painful cracks, typically caused by excessive pressure and force on the heels. Contributing factors include:
  • Spending long periods on your feet
  • Wearing hard, unsupportive footwear such as thongs, open-backed sandals, or going barefoot
  • Biomechanical issues that increase pressure on the heels
  • Taking long, hot showers
  • Increased body weight
  • Medical conditions like diabetes

 

Since high heels are often worn with open-back shoes during warmer weather, cracked heels are a common issue during the summer months.

Cracked Heel Symptoms

In addition to the cracking and splitting of your heels, you may experience other symptoms of cracked heels, such as discomfort, pain when standing, itchiness, bleeding if the cracks are deep, and a white, dry appearance around the heels.

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Located Within Ochre Medical Centre Wyalla, Shop 20, 238 Taylor Street, Newtown QLD 4350

Cracked Heels Treatment

Cracked heel treatment begins with removing the hard, dry skin, addressing any underlying issues or infections, and taking steps to prevent future occurrences.

At Priority Podiatry Clinic, we can safely reduce the thickness of your calluses to a more manageable level. We will assess your heels for any underlying conditions or signs of infection, using dressings as necessary. Our team will also help identify the factors contributing to your calluses and cracked heels, and develop a tailored management plan to reduce the chances of the problem returning.

Our Top Tips On How To Prevent Cracked Heels

When you notice callus building up on your heels, it’s important to see your podiatrist for safe removal.

Here are some steps to help prevent cracked heels:

  • Moisturize your feet daily with a urea-based cream to keep the skin soft and supple, but avoid the areas between the toes.
  • Select proper footwear that doesn’t encourage callus or dry skin buildup. Avoid prolonged use of thongs or walking barefoot, and opt for sandals with enclosed heels when possible.
  • Wear socks or stockings to protect your feet.
  • Stay hydrated and include essential fatty acids, like Omega-3 fatty acids, in your diet to help maintain skin hydration and elasticity, preventing dryness and cracking.
  • Exercise regularly to improve circulation, which helps heal cracks and reduces the risk of them returning.

If your condition is related to nutritional or medical disorders, a referral to other health professionals may be necessary. Your Priority Podiatry Clinic podiatrist can guide you through this process when appropriate.

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Cracked Heels FAQ

The best way to fix cracked heels is to make an appointment with your podiatrist so they can remove the dry, hard skin from your heel. Then they will be able to assess the area and treat any underlying problems or infections. They will then be able to recommend proactive measures to help reduce the chance of recurrence.

The most effective way to treat cracked heels is to see your podiatrist for a formal assessment of any underlying problems or infections. However, for short term relief you can soften the skin on your cracked heels by using a thick moisturiser or urea cream. It may also provide relief to soak your feet in a foot bath with lukewarm, soapy water for 20 minutes.

When only the outer layer of skin is affected, you may not feel much pain, although the cracks can cause discomfort as they catch on your socks. However, if the cracks go deeper and affect the healthy skin beneath, cracked heels can become painful, lead to bleeding, and, if left untreated, increase the risk of infection.

Podiatrists do treat cracked heels, but if the condition is caused by nutritional or other medical issues, a referral to additional healthcare professionals may be required.

 

Make an appointment with Priority Podiatry Clinic for effective cracked heel treatment.

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