Cracked Heels Care You Can Count On

What You Need To Know

Understanding what causes cracked heels and how they are treated.

Understanding Cracked Heels and Fissures

Cracks and fissures are breaks in your skin. They may be the result of skin that is too dry or too moist. When skin is too dry, it can become rough and flaky, and a large fissure often forms at the base of the heel. When skin is too moist, you may develop a bacterial or fungal infection, which can cause cracks between the toes.

Your skin is a complex organ that requires the right amount of moisture to stay healthy. Walking barefoot can strip your skin of its natural oil, and so can wearing sandals or open shoes. Natural oils form a protective layer on your skin. Without enough oils, skin may crack. Cracks may widen, becoming deep fissures that may not be able to heal on their own. These openings leave your foot vulnerable to infection.

Moist skin can result from not drying feet after bathing, or from excess sweat. Wearing shoes without socks or shoes that don’t ventilate can trap sweat on your feet. Overly moist skin can encourage bacteria and fungus to grow, weakening your skin and leading to cracks. Fungus can also progress to athlete’s foot or thick fungal nails.

During your visit, your doctor will ask you questions about your medical history and current symptoms, and will also talk with you about the kinds of shoes you wear. Your doctor will then inspect your feet for breaks in the skin, growths, drainage, and redness. Your skin may also be tested for fungus so treatment can begin right away.

Treatment and Everyday Foot Care

Your doctor can treat your cracks and fissures in the office. If moist skin is causing fungus or bacteria, your doctor may apply medication to your feet. You may be given an antifungal foot soak or lotion to take home, and oral medications may also be prescribed. If you have dry skin, your doctor may remove rough patches with a pumice or special lotion. Fissures may be taped to help them heal, and an antibiotic ointment may be prescribed to soothe cracks and prevent infection.

For dry skin at home, use moisturizer on your feet after bathing and at bedtime. Ask your doctor before using a pumice stone to reduce calluses. Never walk barefoot, and avoid sandals and other open shoes that expose your skin to drying conditions.

For moist skin, always dry between your toes after bathing and do not apply moisturizer between the toes. Ask your doctor about antifungal powders and lotions or special foot antiperspirants. Choose cotton socks instead of nylon so moisture can wick away from your skin.

Whether you have dry or moist skin, check your feet daily. Look at the top and bottom of your feet and between your toes, using a mirror if needed. Call your doctor if you notice redness, swelling, or increased heat. Choose well-fitting canvas or leather shoes that allow skin to breathe, avoid synthetic shoes that trap moisture, and always wear shoes with socks, even at home. With consistent care and the right footwear, most patients see steady improvement in the comfort and appearance of their heels.