What Causes Cracked Heels

*What Are Heel Fissures?*

Heel fissures, or cracked heels, are common but not usually dangerous. However, they can sometimes lead to infections like cellulitis. Cracked heels occur when the skin on your heel becomes hard and dry. You can treat cracked heels and prevent them from occurring.

**What Causes Cracked Heels?**

Cracked heels start with dry, thick skin around your heels. Extra pressure on the fat pad of your heel can cause cracks. Anyone can get heel fissures, but some factors increase the risk:

- Wearing open-heeled shoes like sandals
- Taking hot baths or showers
- Using harsh soaps
- Having cold, dry skin
- Dry, cold weather
- Standing for long periods

Certain medical conditions may also lead to cracked heels:

- Hypothyroidism: Low hormone production by the thyroid.
- Juvenile plantar dermatosis: A skin condition in children.
- Sjögren's syndrome: A chronic condition that reduces moisture.
- Athlete's foot: A fungal infection.
- Heel spurs: Bony growths on the heel.

**How to Treat Cracked Heels at Home**

Most cases of cracked heels can be treated at home. Start by soaking your feet and moisturizing them twice daily. Use thick creams with skin softeners for best results. Follow these steps:

1. Soak your feet in soapy water for 20 minutes.
2. Gently scrub with a loofah or pumice stone.
3. Dry your feet thoroughly.
4. Apply a heavy moisturizer like petroleum jelly.
5. Wear thick socks to keep the moisturizer in place.

When looking for over-the-counter solutions, check for ingredients like:

- Urea
- Salicylic acid
- Alpha-hydroxy acid
- Saccharide isomerate
- Lactic acid

These help soften skin and remove dead cells but may cause irritation.

**Cracked Heels Treatment**

If your cracked heels are severe or don’t improve after a week, consult a doctor. Severe dryness prevents good skin from growing back properly.

You might need treatment from a podiatrist or foot specialist. Possible treatments include:

1. **Strapping:** Bandages around the heel to limit movement.
2. **Debridement:** A professional removes thick skin; do not attempt this yourself.
3. **Medicated cream:** Your doctor may prescribe stronger creams than those available over-the-counter.
4. **Skin glue:** Used to hold fissure edges together for healing.
5. **Shoe inserts:** Insoles provide better support and redistribute weight.

See a doctor if you notice redness or signs of infection like odor or leaking cracks.

**How to Prevent Cracked Heels**

Check your feet daily, especially if you have diabetes. Look for swelling, cuts, athlete’s foot, or warm spots.

Wash your feet every day using warm water and dry them well—especially between toes—to prevent moisture buildup.

Trim toenails straight across and file gently to avoid ingrown nails.

Wear supportive footwear with clean socks that fit well. Shop for shoes later in the day when feet swell slightly.

Protect your feet from extreme temperatures by wearing shoes at the beach and using sunscreen on exposed areas. Wear socks at night if it’s cold and choose lined waterproof boots in winter.

Credit: webmd.com