Cracked Heels

Cracked heels is a common condition that occurs more often in warmer climates and during the summer months. Like hard skin, it is not serious unless left untreated.

Symptoms

The skin on the heel appears cracked dry and yellow in colour.

Causes

The heel withstands the initial contact of the 3.5 million average steps a foot takes every year. To combat this pressure the heels skin is about 4 times thicker than the rest of the body.

It is this protection that makes the heels prone to dryness and cracking, particularly in the summer when we wear sandals and shoes that expose them. Loss of moisture makes the skin less flexible when we walk. Rather than move with the foot, the skin stretches and splits.

If left untreated these cracks can become deep fissures exposing tissue to infection from dirt.

Treatment

A podiatrist will remove any hard skin around the heel area and smooth over any fissures. Advice on routine maintenance will be given and further follow up appointments to assess the condition.

Supporting Products

• Flexitol Heel Balm
• Scholl Heel repair cream
• Daily moisturising creams such as silk smooth or ccs, both containing urea.
• Scholl rough skin remover
• Party feet shower scrub