We all know that cold weather is a top cause of seasonal cracked, dry heels. But if heel fissures stick around for the warmer seasons, you may need treatment to resolve your symptoms.
"Heel fissures" is the technical term for cracked heels. This condition can cause pain, especially when walking around with bare feet. In rare cases, heel fissures can lead to more serious issues.
For example, cracked heels can become infected. Cellulitis is an infection that commonly occurs in people who do not get treatment for cracked, dry heels. Cellulitis is treatable but can lead to serious complications if not addressed.
So, what can you do about your heel fissures before they progress to something more painful and potentially severe? Learn all about the treatments, causes, and symptoms of this condition in this article.
What Are the Symptoms of Heel Fissure?
One of the first symptoms of cracked, dry heels is a thickening of the skin on the bottom of the feet. The skin may turn brown or yellow. Over time, it will develop splits in the skin that may bleed or cause heel pain while walking.
What Causes Heel Fissures?
The main underlying cause of heel fissures is dry skin on the feet. Age, weight, and immune system function can also increase someone's risk for heel fissures.
There are many causes of dry skin, including lifestyle choices and medical conditions. Medical diseases and disorders that can cause dry, cracked heels include the following:
Diabetes
Hypothyroidism
Plantar dermatosis
Sjogren's syndrome
Athlete's foot
Heel spurs
More commonly, people develop heel fissures due to bathing habits. Taking hot showers and using harsh products can damage the skin on your feet. Standing for long periods and wearing sandals can also lead to cracked heels.
What Are the Treatment Options for Heel Fissures?
The good news about dry heels is that you can treat this condition at home with over-the-counter products. Dermatologist-recommended lotions from CeraVe, Cetaphil, or Dermal Therapy can restore the moisture balance to your feet.
Apply these products to your heels after a shower or, ideally, a bath. You can also use a pumice stone to remove thickened skin. Moisturize directly afterward to lock it in.
If learning how to treat dry heel at home doesn't work for you, it may be time to visit your local Chiropodist. Chiropodists are medical professionals who specialize in foot and ankle conditions.
A chiropodist may recommend strapping, debridement, or skin glue to treat dry heels. They may prescribe custom orthotics or medications to help patients feel comfortable during the healing process and prevent future fissures.
Cracked, Dry Heels? Schedule an Appointment at Qureshy Foot and Orthotic Clinic
Heel fissures happen when the skin on the heels thickens and starts to crack. If left untreated, this condition can lead to infection. That is why it is critical to care for your cracked heels at home and see a Chiropodist ASAP.
Do you need treatment for dry, cracked heels in Ontario? Qureshy Foot and Orthotic Clinic offers chiropodist services in Oshawa. Book an appointment online today!