Cracked Heels Problems & Solutions

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common, often quite painful, foot problem. Cracked heels are due to the thickening and fissuring of the skin on the heel of the foot. Deep cracks can cause the skin to bleed and in severe cases can cause infection.

What are the causes?

Cracked heels are caused by dry skin. Certain medical conditions predispose an individual to dry skin, such as diabetic neuropathy, obesity, and skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema.

What are the symptoms?

The initial symptom of getting cracked heels is the development of dry, hard, thickened skin around the rim of the heel. This may be yellow or dark brown discolored area of skin. Initially small cracks are visible. If left untreated and as more pressure is placed on the heel, these cracks become deeper and can begin to bleed. This results into very painful situation during walking and standing.

What are the treatment and prevention measures?

Dr. Roth recommends the use of the Foot Fixer Kit to help moisturize and protect skin against cracked heels. Gentle cleansing with Dr. Roth's Foaming Foot Wash, followed by the application of topical moisturizers such as Dr. Roth's Foot Balm, can help to maintain healthy skin that can better resist breakdown and injury.

For severe cracked heels, Dr. Roth recommends using the Nail & Foot Gel to help sooth and treat the affected area.