Cracked Heels
Heel fissures, also known as cracked heels can be a simple cosmetic problem and a nuisance, but can also lead to serious medical problems.
Heel fissures occur when the skin on the bottom, outer edge of the heel becomes hard, dry and flaky, sometimes causing deep fissures that can be painful or bleed.
Cause:
Heel fissures can affect anyone, but risk factors include:
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Living in a dry climate,
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Obesity
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Consistently walking barefoot or wearing sandals or open-backed shoes,
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inactive sweat glands.
Like many foot conditions, heel fissures can become more dangerous if they go untreated and become deep or infected. This is especially dangerous for people with diabetes or compromised immune systems.
Treatment:
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Filing and creaming with a heel balm will help, but a foot health practitioner can debride the area more successfully.
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If the cracks become infected, then an antiseptic cream needs to be applied.
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Moisturizing the feet at least twice a day and wearing socks over moisturizer while sleeping can also help.
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Paraffin Wax Treatment can help.
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Never use a razor or scissors to remove any skin.
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Contact me for a Classic Foot Treatment and have a happy feet again!