How to Heal Cracked Heels

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, is often an extremely painful condition that can occur from a variety of circumstances. Having to stand on hard surfaces for long periods of time for work is a main contributor since the excess pressure on your feet can cause layers of dry skin to build up. If you are overweight, this can exacerbate the problem. People contending with psoriasis or eczema may be more susceptible to cracked and dry skin generally, and especially on the heels. It’s important to treat cracked heels before they worsen since deep fissures can develop causing bleeding and sometimes lead to infection.

How to heal and prevent cracked heels:

●     Avoid building layers of cracked skin—Remove excess dead skin with a pumice stone or file after bathing or soaking. Don’t wear open footwear that exposes your heels to the elements causing irritation and drying.

●     Moisturize—Apply an emollient cream moisturizer to your cracked heel skin two or three times per day, especially after bathing, to hydrate the area. Apply ample cream at night and cover with socks for an overnight absorption of moisture.

●     Proper foot protection—Always wear socks to protect your feet and choose properly fitted and supportive shoes. Heel pads and orthotic inserts can help shift pressure imbalances and provide cushioning.

If you need help treating your cracked heels, contact your foot care specialist. At Fit Feet for Life, our team of board-certified podiatrists has access to advanced technologies and years of experience to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, including heel pain, sports injuries, toe deformities, nail fungus, and plantar warts.  Bonnie Sanchez, DPM, and Gregory Cook, DPM, provide high quality foot and ankle care to patients in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area at our five offices conveniently located in Sun City Center, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and our two Tampa locations. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.