While cracked heels may be considered by most to be an unsightly and mildly uncomfortable nuisance, they can develop into a more troublesome and serious condition in certain cases. Cracked heels can often improve with home treatment—such as by sloughing off dead skin in the shower with a pumice stone or by applying foot cream at night and covering the feet with cotton socks. However, the elderly, and people with certain medical issues should not attempt to treat cracked heels at home. Cracked heels that are allowed to deepen may bleed, and become painful or even infected. Severely cracked heels can be particularly problematic in older adults, or people with diabetes, eczema, psoriasis, or thyroid issues, and should be attended to by a podiatrist to help treat them properly and safely, and to avoid the possible development of cellulitis or a foot ulcer.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
- Invest in a good foot cream
- Try Using Petroleum Jelly
- Ease up on Soaps
- Drink Plenty of Water
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
- Moisturize After Showering
- Skip a Shower
- Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
- Don’t Scrub Your Feet
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
