Cracked Heels

Cracked heels, or heel fissures, are common feet problems all over the world. They are usually caused due to dry skin, also known as xerosis. Sometimes the cracks cause pain and the problem is often aggravated due to thick skinned heels. Cracks often bleed and can even get infected.

Cracked heels are usually dry and have a thick skin around the rim of the heel. This thick skin is called callus, and it turns yellow or dark brown. Cracks can become more and more prominent if they are not treated properly. Deep cracks cause a lot of pain and often bleed. People with serious cracks will have problems standing with weight on the heels. Wearing hard shoes or thin footwear can make the problem worse.

Causes of cracked heels

There are many factors that can cause cracked heels. Naturally dry skin is among the main causes. There are other factors like thickness of skin, pressure applied on the heels as one walks, standing for long durations, excessive body weight, using improper footwear like shoes with thin soles and open back.

Some medical conditions are also responsible for cracked heels and other foot problems. Dryness of skin can be caused by medical conditions like under active thyroid and diabetes. Skin conditions like eczema, athlete’s foot and psoriasis can also increase the risk of cracked heels.

Treatment for cracked heels

There are some good household remedies for cracked heels. Keeping the heels moisturized is very important. Oil based moisturizing creams can be applying with good results. Cleaning the cracks regularly and using pumice stone helps reduce the problem. Removal of dead skin by sharp objects like blades and scissors should be avoided as this may lead to infections.

Home remedies for cracked heels

A few home remedies for cracked heels include use of hydrogenated vegetable oils, banana pulp, and lemon oil. Soaking the affected feet in warm water every day for about 15 minutes has good results on cracked heels. After the soak, the heels should be moisturized using a mixture of glycerin and rosewater. A mixture of melted paraffin wax and a little mustard oil is another effective remedy to cracked heels.

Malnutrition also contributes towards occurrence of cracked heels. A diet rich in calcium, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fats can prevent cracked heels and other foot related skin diseases. The foods that are rich in the above essential nutrients include green vegetables, cereals, wheat germs, whole grains, milk and milk products, meat, poultry, beans, sprouts, fish, herbs and flax seeds.

Remember that prevention is better than cure, and the best way to avoid cracked heels is to maintain proper foot hygiene. Clean and well moisturized heels will have much less chances of getting cracked than dirty, dry heels. Also, wearing proper footwear with standard soles will prevent your heels getting cracked.