Definition
Cracked heels are often referred to as fissures and are usually caused by dry skin. For most people this is a nuisance and a cosmetic problem but when the fissures are deep, the skin bleeds easily and is can be very painful. The heels appear yellow or dark brown depending on the skin type and are normally accompanied by dry skin. Symptoms include a hard growth of skin, usually on the outer edge of the heel. Patients may experience pain while walking and increased discomfort in thin soles or open back shoes.
Cause
In active sweat glands
Dry skin
Prolonged standing
Obesity
Open backed shoes can be a contributing factor
Surgery to the lower extremities
Heel Spurs
Mal-alignment of the metatarsal bones (the bone structure of the sole of the foot)
Flat feet and high arched feet
Treatment & Prevention
Apply moisturizing cream twice daily to the affected heels.
Use pumice stone to reduce the thickness of the hard skin.
Avoid open backed shoes or thin soled shoes.
Buy shoes with a good shock absorbing sole.
