Archives

3 Ways to Deal with a Cracked Heel

Having to stand on hard surfaces for long periods of time for work is a major contributor to the excess pressure on your feet that can cause layers of dry skin to build up, especially on your heels. If you are carrying packages or extra weight, this can exacerbate the effects.

People dealing with skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema may be more susceptible to developing cracked and dry skin. It’s important to treat cracked heels and heel fissures before they worsen since deep fissures may bleed and lead to horrible infections.

3 tips to heal and prevent cracked heels:

  1. Remove cracked skin—Excess dead skin can be erased with a pumice stone or file after bathing or soaking to soften the area. Don’t expose your heels to the elements with open footwear like sandals because this can increase irritation and drying.
  2. Rehydrate— For severely cracked heels, moisturize your cracked heel skin two or three times per day, especially after showering, to rehydrate the area. Apply a healing cream at night and cover your feet with socks to keep the cream from rubbing off before it is fully absorbed.
  3. Protect your feet —Wear breathable socks made of cotton or linen to protect your feet and choose properly-fitted, supportive, and comfortable shoes. Heel pads and custom orthotic inserts can be utilized to correct imbalances and provide proper cushioning.

If you need help treating your cracked heels, contact your foot care specialist. At Your Next Step, our team of board-certified podiatrists, Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, serves the Ardmore, Paoli, and Downingtown, PA area with high-quality foot and ankle care. Common conditions include sports injuries, joint pain, toe deformities, nail fungus, chronic tendon pain, and skin problems. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment with our dedicated podiatrists.

  • Recent Posts

  • Categories