Cracked Heels
What Are Cracked Heels?
Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common foot condition where the skin on the heels becomes dry, thickened, and splits open.
These cracks can range from superficial lines to deeper fissures that may cause pain, bleeding, or infection if left untreated. Cracked heels can affect anyone but are particularly common in individuals with dry skin or those who spend long periods on their feet.
What Causes A Cracked Heel?
Cracked heels develop when the skin on the heel becomes excessively dry and loses its elasticity. Common causes include:
Prolonged standing, especially on hard surfaces.
Wearing open-backed footwear, which exposes the heels to friction and drying.
Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
Medical conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism, which can affect skin health.
Lack of regular foot care or inadequate moisturising.
Environmental factors, such as cold weather or low humidity, can also contribute to dry, cracked skin.
Prolonged standing, especially on hard surfaces.
Wearing open-backed footwear, which exposes the heels to friction and drying.
Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
Medical conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism, which can affect skin health.
Lack of regular foot care or inadequate moisturising.
Environmental factors, such as cold weather or low humidity, can also contribute to dry, cracked skin.
How To Treat Cracked Heels
Initially, our foot health practitioner will examine your feet to look for any other symptoms that may be cause for concern, such as infection.
Treatment Summary:
(Click to expand)
(Click to expand)
Debridement
- We’ll begin by gently removing thickened, dry skin using sterile tools to promote healing and prevent further cracking.
- This will reduce discomfort and almost immediately alleviate the issue.
Moisurising
- Once the area has been debrided, applying a specialised moisturising lotion will help add some much need hydration to the impacted area, leading to softer feeling skin.
Footwear Advice
- Where possible, only wear shoes with a proper fit with wide toe boxes, and cushioning.
- If you can, avoid high heels or tight footwear that may worsen pressure points.
Aftercare Advice
- Continue to moisturise your feet at home to prevent dry, hard skin.
Foot Care For Everyone
Book An Appointment To Treat Your Cracked Heels
If left untreated, cracked heels can lead to pain whilst walking, bleeding or even infection. Early intervention is critical to avoid complications in the future and to ensure a speedy recovery time.
Book an appointment at The Barefoot Clinic for just £35 and our friendly practitioner will help you put your best foot forward.
Cracked Heel Treatment | The Barefoot Clinic
If left untreated, cracked heels can lead to pain whilst walking, bleeding or even infection. Book an appointment online today.
Service Type: Cracked Heel Treatment
Price: 35.00
Currency: GBP
Not Sure What You Need?
If you’re unsure what treatment you need, we’ll be able to uncover your symptoms and recommend the required treatment during your appointment. You can also send us a photo via WhatsApp to see if we can identify the issue in advance.