What to Know About Cracked Heels

Cracked heels are a common condition that can affect people of all ages. They occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thickened, and cracked. This can be caused by a number of factors, including:

Dry skin: This is the most common cause of cracked heels. When the skin on the heels is dry, it is more likely to crack.

Wearing shoes that don't fit well: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can put pressure on the heels and cause them to crack.

Standing for long periods of time: This can put pressure on the heels and cause them to crack.

Obesity: Obese people are more likely to develop cracked heels because of the increased pressure on their heels.

Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop cracked heels because of poor circulation and nerve damage.

Symptoms of cracked heels can include:

- Dry, thickened skin on the heels

-Cracking or fissuring of the skin on the heels

-Pain or tenderness in the heels

-Bleeding from the cracks

-Infection

Cracked heels can often be treated with simple home remedies, such as:

- Soaking the feet in warm water for 15-20 minutes several times a day

-Applying a moisturizer to the heels after soaking them

-Wearing shoes that fit well

-Avoiding standing for long periods of time

-Using a pumice stone to gently remove dead skin from the heels

In some cases, cracked heels may require medical treatment, such as:

- Antibiotics to treat an infection

- Antifungal medication to treat a fungal infection

-Surgery to repair severe cracks

If you have cracked heels, it is important to see a doctor if:

- The cracks are deep or painful

- They are bleeding or infected

- They do not improve with home treatment

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