Cracked heels, sometimes referred to as heel fissures in the medical field, are frequent foot ailments many individuals have to deal with. These fissures in the skin can be as shallow or as deep as you like, and when they are deeper, they can be exceptionally uncomfortable and cause bleeding if they are not treated. However, what can be done to treat cracked heels, and what causes them in the first place? Let’s go into more detail about this issue, shall we?
Let’s get straight to the point.
Cracked heels, or heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heel becomes dry, thickened, and lacks elasticity, leading to painful cracks that can bleed. Causes include dry skin, pressure from weight, ill-fitting shoes, certain medical conditions, and environmental factors.
Symptoms range from pain, bleeding, and thickened skin to possible infections. To treat and prevent cracked heels, moisturise regularly, exfoliate gently, wear proper shoes, stay hydrated, avoid harsh soaps, and seek medical advice for severe cases. Early treatment and proper foot care can help avoid complications.
What are Cracked Heels?
Cracked heels are splits or cracks in the skin around the heel. As mentioned in a recent video, these cracks can be superficial or deep. Deep cracks, also known as full-thickness cracks, can be especially painful and may even bleed. The skin around the heels is naturally dry, and it loses its elasticity when it becomes excessively dry. This lack of stretchiness in the skin can lead to cracks, especially if there are other contributing factors.
Causes of Cracked Heels
1. Dry Skin
- Overview: Dry skin is the primary and most common cause of cracked heels. The skin around our heels is naturally thicker and drier than the rest of our body. Without adequate moisture, it becomes brittle and can easily crack.
- Why It Happens: The skin on our feet lacks oil glands, which makes it reliant on sweat glands for moisturisation. When these sweat glands are not sufficient to keep the skin hydrated, it becomes dry.
- Aggravating Factors: Factors such as cold weather, low humidity, and overexposure to hot water can exacerbate skin dryness.
2. Weight and Pressure
- Overview: Constant pressure on the feet, especially the heels, can lead to the formation of cracks.
- Why It Happens: When we stand or walk, our body weight exerts pressure on our heels. This can cause the skin to expand sideways, especially if it’s dry and inflexible.
- Aggravating Factors: Obesity, prolonged standing, or walking on hard surfaces can increase the risk of heel cracks due to added pressure.
3. Ill-fitting Shoes
- Overview: Shoes that don’t fit properly can contribute significantly to the development of cracked heels.
- Why It Happens: Ill-fitting shoes, especially those with an open back, can allow the fat pad of the heel to splay or expand sideways. This expansion stretches the skin, leading to cracks.
- Aggravating Factors: High-heeled shoes or those lacking proper arch support can further stress the heel skin.
4. Medical Conditions
- Overview: Certain medical conditions can predispose an individual to have dry and cracked heels.
- Why It Happens: Conditions like diabetes can reduce blood flow to the feet, leading to dryness. Eczema and psoriasis are skin conditions that can cause dryness and flakiness.
- Aggravating Factors: Not managing these conditions effectively or neglecting foot care can worsen the situation.
5. Environmental Factors
- Overview: The environment we live in can play a significant role in the health of our skin, including the skin on our heels.
- Why It Happens: Dry, arid climates can sap moisture from the skin. Similarly, exposure to harsh soaps or chemicals can strip the skin of its natural oils.
- Aggravating Factors: Overuse of air conditioners or heaters, which reduce indoor humidity, and prolonged exposure to chlorinated water in swimming pools can further dry out the skin.
Understanding these causes in-depth can help in better prevention and management of cracked heels. Proper foot care, combined with awareness of these factors, can go a long way in maintaining healthy feet.
Symptoms of Cracked Heels
1. Pain, Especially When Standing or Walking
- Overview: One of the most noticeable symptoms of cracked heels is pain. This discomfort can range from mild annoyance to severe pain, depending on the depth and location of the cracks.
- Why It Happens: As the skin cracks, it exposes the sensitive inner layers of the skin, which aren’t designed to handle direct pressure or exposure. This can lead to pain, especially when weight is placed on the feet.
- Associated Feelings: The pain might be described as sharp, burning, or stinging. It can intensify after long periods of standing or at the end of the day.
2. Bleeding From Deep Cracks
- Overview: In severe cases, the cracks or fissures can penetrate deep enough to reach tiny blood vessels, leading to bleeding.
- Why It Happens: Deep fissures can rupture the capillaries in the skin. This is especially common in areas where the skin is under constant pressure or stretching.
- Associated Risks: Open cracks that bleed are more susceptible to infections, as they can become entry points for bacteria.
3. Hardened, Thickened Skin Around the Heel
- Overview: Before cracks even appear, the skin around the heels might become hard and thick, known as callus formation.
- Why It Happens: This is the body’s natural response to repeated pressure and friction. The skin tries to protect itself by thickening.
- Associated Feelings: The thickened skin can feel rough to the touch and may appear yellowish or brown in colour.
4. Red or Flaky Patches
- Overview: The skin on and around the cracked heels can become inflamed, leading to redness. Additionally, the skin might start to peel or flake off.
- Why It Happens: Dryness and the stretching of the skin can cause inflammation. The flakiness is a result of dead skin cells shedding.
- Associated Signs: The skin might also feel warm to the touch, and there might be slight swelling.
5. Infection in Severe Cases
- Overview: If not treated promptly, cracked heels can become infected.
- Why It Happens: Open cracks provide an entry point for bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens. The warm and sometimes moist environment of the feet can be conducive to microbial growth.
- Associated Signs: Signs of an infection include increased redness, swelling, pus formation, and sometimes even fever. The pain might also worsen, and there could be an unpleasant odour.
Recognising these symptoms early on is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications. If you notice any of these signs, especially indications of an infection, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Proper foot care and hygiene can also help in preventing the onset of these symptoms.
Remedies and Prevention
1. Moisturise Regularly
- Overview: Keeping the feet moisturised is one of the most effective ways to prevent and treat cracked heels.
- How It Helps: Moisturisers create a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and helping to heal existing cracks.
- Recommendations: Opt for thick creams or ointments that contain ingredients like shea butter, urea, or lanolin. Apply the moisturiser after bathing and before bedtime for maximum absorption.
2. Exfoliate
- Overview: Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, which can contribute to dryness and cracking.
- How It Helps: By removing the outer layer of dead skin, exfoliation allows moisturisers to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
- Recommendations: Use a pumice stone or a foot scrub once a week. Ensure you do this gently to avoid causing further damage. Always moisturise after exfoliating.
3. Wear the Right Shoes
- Overview: Proper footwear can play a significant role in preventing cracked heels.
- How It Helps: Shoes that fit well and provide adequate support reduce the pressure on the heel, preventing the skin from expanding and cracking.
- Recommendations: Avoid wearing open-back shoes or sandals for extended periods. Opt for shoes with a cushioned sole and proper arch support.
4. Stay Hydrated
- Overview: Hydration from within is just as crucial as external moisturisation.
- How It Helps: Drinking adequate water helps maintain skin elasticity and prevents excessive dryness.
- Recommendations: Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, more if you’re active or live in a hot climate. Foods with high water content, like fruits and vegetables, can also contribute to hydration.
5. Avoid Harsh Soaps
- Overview: Some soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.
- How It Helps: Using milder soaps helps retain the skin’s natural moisture, reducing the risk of cracks.
- Recommendations: Opt for soaps labelled “moisturising” or “gentle.” Avoid products with alcohol or strong fragrances, as they can be drying.
6. Seek Medical Advice
- Overview: In some cases, home remedies might not be enough, and professional intervention is required.
- How It Helps: A podiatrist or dermatologist can provide specialised treatments and recommend products specifically designed for severely cracked heels.
- Recommendations: If you notice deep cracks and signs of infection, or if your heels don’t improve after trying home remedies, it’s essential to consult a healthcare practitioner.
Conclusion
Cracked heels, while common, can be painful and unsightly. By understanding the causes and taking preventive measures, you can keep your feet soft, smooth, and crack-free. Remember, your feet carry you everywhere, so give them the care they deserve!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Cracked Heels?
Cracked heels are typically caused by dry skin, often exacerbated by factors such as standing for long periods, wearing open-backed shoes, or exposure to cold weather. When the skin on the heels becomes dry, it loses its elasticity, making it prone to cracking. Other contributing factors include obesity, diabetes, fungal infections, and medical conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Excessive pressure on the feet, often due to ill-fitting shoes or high heels, can also lead to cracks in the skin.
What Are The Symptoms Of Cracked Heels?
The most common symptoms of cracked heels include dry, rough, and thickened skin on the heels, accompanied by visible cracks or fissures. These cracks can range from shallow splits to deep, painful tears. In severe cases, the cracks may bleed, become infected, or cause discomfort while walking. The skin may also become inflamed or reddened, especially if the cracks are large or if the area becomes irritated.
How Can I Prevent Cracked Heels?
Preventing cracked heels involves maintaining good foot hygiene and moisturising regularly. Apply a thick moisturiser or heel balm to your feet, especially after showering, to lock in moisture. Wearing shoes that cover and support your heels, such as closed-toe shoes or sandals with a strap, can help reduce pressure and exposure. Avoid standing for long periods and consider using cushioned insoles to relieve pressure on your feet. Regularly exfoliating your feet to remove dead skin can also help prevent the build-up of dry, cracked skin.
What Are Some Home Remedies For Cracked Heels?
Home remedies for cracked heels often focus on moisturising and softening the skin. You can soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes to soften the skin, followed by gently exfoliating with a pumice stone or foot file. After drying your feet, apply a thick moisturising cream or oil, such as coconut oil, shea butter, or a specialised heel balm. For deeper cracks, you may apply a medicated ointment, such as urea-based creams, to help heal and hydrate the skin. Wearing socks overnight after applying moisturiser can also lock in hydration.
When Should I See A Doctor For Cracked Heels?
If your cracked heels are painful, bleeding, or showing signs of infection (such as redness, pus, or warmth), it’s important to seek medical advice. A doctor or podiatrist can help treat more severe cases, especially if the cracks don’t heal with home remedies. People with diabetes or poor circulation should see a healthcare professional if they experience cracked heels, as they may be more prone to complications, such as infections or delayed healing.
