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Cracked heels (Heel Fissures)- Causes, Symptoms and treatment

What is cracked heels (Heel Fissures)?

Cracked heels are a common foot problem that are often referred to as heel fissures. Cracked heels are commonly caused by dry skin (xerosis), and made more complicated if the skin around the rim of the heel is thick (callus). For most people this is a nuisance and a cosmetic problem but when the fissures or cracks are deep, they are painful to stand on and the skin can bleed - in severe cases this can become infected.

What are the causes of cracked heels ?

Cracked heels are often referred to as fissures and are usually caused by dry skin. Heel fissures can affect anyone, but risk factors include:

• Dry skin.
• Consistently walking barefoot or wearing sandals or open-backed shoes.
• Eczema and psoriases can also be contributing factors.
• Obesity.
• Inactive sweat glands.
• Using excessively hot water is a contributing factor.

What are the symptoms of cracked heels ?

If the cracks are bad enough there will be pain on weight bearing, that is not there when weight is off the heel. The edges or rim around the heel will generally have a thicker area of skin (callus). Wearing open or thin soled shoes usually make the symptoms worse.

Home remedies for the treatment of cracked heels.

1. Apply a moisturizing cream twice daily to the affected heels, such as flexitol heel balm.
2. Never try to reduce the hard skin your self with a razor blade or a pair of scissors. There is a risk of an infection developing and taking too much off.
3. Buy shoes with a good shock absorbing sole.

Prevention tips for cracked heels.

Moisturizing the feet regularly can prevent heel fissures. Once they occur, you can use a pumice stone daily to gently decrease the thick and flaky layer of skin. Avoid going barefoot or wearing open-backed shoes, sandals or shoes with thin soles. Shoes with strong shock absorption can help to improve the condition.

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