Cracked heels can occur at any time of the year and typically aren’t dangerous. However, you will find as a person with diabetes, and a dry heel can turn serious. Unfortunately, there are many reasons why heels crack and conditions that make it worse. Knowing what to look out for should help you fight it off.

What Causes Cracked Feet

• Having dry skin-when your skin becomes dry and thick, and it is prone to cracking. If you have calluses, you are more at risk as they will break when you walk.
• Your shoes-open backed sandals and shoes that don’t support your heels or feet are two of the biggest culprits of this issue.
• In particular, the way you bathe-if you take long showers under hot water and use soap that is too harsh for you, strips the natural oils your body needs.
• Fungal infections-fungal infections cause bacteria and create issues over the skin of your foot. If left untreated, that can lead to extreme cracking.
• Hypothyroidism-this is a condition that leads to an entire set of problems, but because dry skin is a side effect, you will notice your skin begins to tear and crack.
• Vitamin deficiencies-when your body doesn’t have the proper vitamins to keep you healthy, your skin will take a beating. You can experience sallow skin, itching, cracking, and bleeding in extreme situations. If left untreated, this could lead to infections.
• Obesity-obesity puts extra weight on your body, but especially on your knees and feet. As a result of the pressure, your feet take quite the beating. In particular, the rubbing of your shoes can cause immediate cracking and bleeding.

Our dedicated and loyal team at Your Next Step Podiatry can heal whatever problems occur in your heels, ankles, and feet. We have a professional and caring group of doctors that prioritize you and your health. Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, Dr. Aliza V. Eisen are incredible teams offering the latest skin lesion treatment, nail laser centers, and help with Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Our offices are in the glorious areas of Montgomery County, Chester County, Greater Philadelphia, Downingtown, and the Greater Philadelphia area, and Paoli. Offering you fantastic treatment, we can heal any issue that comes your way. Call our office in Downingtown at (610) 873-0322 or our Ardmore office at (610) 642-8837 to schedule an appointment today.