Cracked Heels

Cracked heels are a common foot problem that affects many people. This condition causes discomfort and can lead to more severe issues if left untreated. Knowing the causes, symptoms and treatment modalities for cracked heels is crucial for maintaining healthy feet and overall well-being. 

In this comprehensive article, let's explore the cracked heels reason and discuss effective cracked heel treatment methods. We'll look at various factors contributing to this condition, from environmental causes to underlying health issues, home remedies, professional treatments to heal cracked heels, and tips to prevent them from recurring. 

What are Cracked Heels? 

Cracked heels or heel fissures are common foot problems that occur when the skin at the bottom of the heel becomes dry, complex, and thickened. This condition often starts with the development of a callus, a yellow or dark brown discoloured area of skin around the rim of the heel. As the condition progresses, tiny cracks begin to form over the callus. 

If left untreated, these cracks can deepen, causing pain when walking or standing. In severe cases, the fissures may become so deep that they begin to bleed, potentially leading to infections such as cellulitis. Cracked heels can range from a minor nuisance to a serious health concern, especially for people with diabetes with reduced foot sensation. 

Causes of Cracked Heels 

Cracked heels have various causes, including: 

• Prolonged standing, especially on hard floors, increases pressure on the heels and leads to constant friction, potentially causing cracks and open sores. 
• Walking barefoot or wearing ill-fitting shoes can contribute to this problem. 
• Ageing skin loses elasticity and produces less oil, making it more susceptible to dryness and cracking. 
• Poor foot hygiene and exposure to harsh elements can exacerbate the issue. 
• Dry skin, particularly during winter with low humidity, increases the risk of cracked heels. 
• Obesity puts extra pressure on the fat pad under the heel, expanding sideways. 
• Medical conditions like diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and skin problems like psoriasis can also lead to cracked heels. 

Symptoms of Cracked Heels 

The following are some common symptoms of cracked heels: 

• People with cracked heels may experience pain and discomfort, especially while standing or walking. 
• Visible cracking or splitting on the skin of the heels 
• Itchiness in the affected area 
• Bleeding 
• Flaky skin 
• If an infection develops, warmth, redness, and swelling may occur. 
• For individuals with diabetes, cracked heels pose a particular risk due to the potential loss of feeling in the feet, which can lead to diabetic foot ulcers. In extreme cases, cracked heels can result in cellulitis, a severe skin infection requiring medical attention. 

Risk Factors 

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing cracked heels, such as: 

• Prolonged standing or walking barefoot, especially on hard floors 
• Ageing 
• Poor foot hygiene 
• Exposure to harsh soap 
• Having cold, dry skin 
• Dry, cold weather 
• Medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, juvenile plantar dermatosis, diabetes, athlete's foot, and skin problems like psoriasis can also lead to cracked heels. 

Diagnosis 

Diagnosing cracked heels involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Doctors look for signs of cracked heels and inquire about footwear habits and previous treatments. They may also assess walking style and foot positioning to identify mechanical issues. 

In some cases, additional tests might be necessary to determine underlying causes, including: 

• Blood tests to check for infections, diabetes, or nutritional deficiencies that affect skin health. 
• Pedobarographic studies help identify high-pressure areas on the feet, which may contribute to heel fissures. 
• Doctors may perform skin biopsies or imaging tests like dermoscopy or Wood's lamp examinations for complex cases. 
• These tools help detect skin conditions or infections that could be causing the problem. 

Treatment 

Treating cracked heels involves a combination of moisturising and exfoliating techniques, such as: 

• Limit baths and showers to 5-10 minutes, using a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to preserve natural oils. 
• Within 5 minutes of bathing, apply a moisturising cream containing 10-25% urea, alpha hydroxy acid, or salicylic acid to lock in moisture. 
• Before bed, use plain petroleum jelly and consider wearing socks overnight. 
• During the day, a liquid bandage over the cracks creates a protective barrier, reducing pain and speeding up healing. 
• Proper footwear is crucial; avoid open-heeled shoes and opt for well-fitting, supportive options. 
• Medical treatments include debridement by a podiatrist, prescription medications, or wound care treatments for severe cases. 
• If symptoms persist after a week of home care, consulting a doctor is advisable for a personalised treatment plan. 

How to Prevent Cracked Heels 

• Preventing cracked heels involves several simple yet effective steps. Moisturising feet regularly, especially in the mornings and evenings, helps keep the skin soft and supple. 
• It's crucial to avoid walking barefoot on rough surfaces. 
• A gentle foot scrub using a pumice stone regularly prevents the build-up of dead skin cells, which has a protective effect on the heels. 
• Wearing protective heel cups in shoes can reduce stress on the heels. 
• Using honey as a foot scrub after a soak or as a foot mask overnight can help heal cracked heels. 

Home Remedies for Cracked Heels 

Several effective home remedies can help treat cracked heels. 

• Bananas, rich in vitamins A, B6, and C, are natural moisturisers. Mash ripe bananas into a paste and apply it to the feet for 20 minutes before rinsing. 
• Honey, a natural antiseptic, can be mixed with warm water for a soothing foot soak. 
• Vegetable oil, packed with vitamins A, D, and E, can be applied overnight to heal cracked heels. 
• Vaseline and lemon juice, in combination, can help exfoliate and moisturise. For a natural scrub, combine rice flour, honey, and vinegar. 
• Other remedies include olive oil, shea butter, and oatmeal blended with oil. 
• Remember to moisturise your feet twice daily and follow a simple care routine of soaking, exfoliating, and moisturising to prevent and treat cracked heels effectively. 

Conclusion 

Cracked heels can significantly impact our daily comfort and foot health. From simple home remedies to professional treatment modalities, numerous ways exist to address and prevent cracked heels. The key lies in maintaining a consistent foot care routine and addressing any underlying health conditions that might contribute to the problem. 

Taking care of our feet is crucial to overall well-being. By incorporating the tips and treatments discussed in this article, we can keep our heels smooth, pain-free, and healthy. Remember, if symptoms persist or worsen despite home care, it's essential to seek advice from a doctor. Healthy feet are the foundation of an active, comfortable lifestyle, so don't neglect them. 

FAQ's 

1. What can happen if I ignore cracked heels? 

Ignoring cracked heels can lead to serious complications. The cracks may deepen, resulting in severe pain and bleeding. This can create an open wound, potentially leading to cellulitis, a dangerous skin infection. For people with diabetes, cracked heels pose a higher risk, potentially causing diabetic foot ulcers. 

2. How do I stop my heels from cracking? 

To prevent cracked heels, moisturise your feet regularly, especially after bathing. Use a pumice stone to remove dead skin gently. Wear supportive, well-fitting shoes and avoid open-heeled footwear. Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. If symptoms persist, consult a podiatrist for professional treatment. 

3. Which deficiency causes cracked heels? 

Vitamin deficiencies can contribute to cracked heels. Lack of vitamins A, E, and C may lead to dry, rough skin and decreased skin elasticity. B-vitamin deficiencies, particularly B3 (niacin) and B7 (biotin), can cause dry, flaky skin. A balanced diet with abundant fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help address these deficiencies. 

4. Can cracked heels be cured permanently? 

While cracked heels can be treated effectively, permanent cure depends on addressing underlying causes and maintaining good foot care habits. Regular moisturising, exfoliation, and wearing supportive footwear can help prevent recurrence. Professional treatment may be necessary for long-term management of severe cases or those caused by medical conditions. 

5. Is coconut oil good for cracked heels? 

Coconut oil can benefit cracked heels due to its moisturising and antimicrobial properties. It helps retain skin moisture and may reduce the risk of infections. Apply coconut oil after soaking your feet for best results. However, some studies suggest that while effective, petroleum jelly might be more potent in managing heel fissures. 

Dr. Shraddha Mahalle.

CARE Medical Team