A person's feet provide overall support and structure for the human body. They support weight, are used for mobility, protection and as a way to generate physical exercise. Keeping feet in good condition promotes overall body health. Having dry, cracked feet is a condition that needs to be addressed to prevent further medical issues. The dryness of the skin causes the surrounding foot area---especially the heel to become vulnerable to fissures and cracking. There are several causes of dry, cracked feet.
Predisposed
One factor that could lead to dry, cracked feet is that the person is predisposed to having this condition. Some people are born with dry skin on the foot, or they could develop dryness as a particular medical condition worsens. Conditions such as autonomic neuropathy and underactive thyroid lowers the overall metabolic rate in the body---causing lower than normal levels of sweating. Because of the reduction of sweat in the foot, dryness begins to develop. Excessive water exposure can also lead to dry feet---especially if the water contains chemicals such as chlorine and iron. If the feet are not moisturized routinely, they have a greater chance of cracking.
Mechanical Factors
Mechanical factors leading to dry, cracked feet may include different ways that the person's legs and feet develop. Pronation is one such condition that may cause dry, cracked feet. Pronation includes overpronation and underpronation. Overpronation occurs when the feet leans inward excessively. Underpronation or supination occurs when the feet may lean in a more outward fashion. Both can cause wear and tear on the feet, causing them to crack under pressure---especially if the heel, toes and side of the feet are excessively dry. Bone spurs, poor posture, broken bones, torn muscle or malformations in the bone can also lead to heavy pressure points in particular foot areas---wearing on the skin and causing cracking.
Obesity
Obesity can be directly linked to dry cracked feet. The main reason for this is the added weight and pressure placed on the soles of the feet. When there is more pressure placed on the foot, the pressure wears down on the dry areas of the foot and they begin to crack---much like a tomato skin cracks and expands when pressure is applied to it as it rests on a hard surface. Losing weight and taking care of the feet will prevent the cracks from splitting open, bleeding and becoming infected.
Open-Back Shoes
Preventing dry cracked feet can be done by avoiding open-back shoes. When a dry foot is exposed to air, it is more susceptible to getting scratched or injured. Having the back of the foot exposed can also allow debris to get into cracks in the feet. Dirt, grit, grass and other loose items can get into the cracks and lead to infection. Wearing socks and comfortable shoes throughout the day will also keep moisture on the foot and prevent additional damage to dry, cracked areas.
Prolonged Standing
Standing for long periods of time can affect feet that are dry and cracked. It can also make dry feet crack, especially if improper posture is involved. People who have occupations that require them to stand for extended periods of time daily such as a barber, parts manufacturer, bank teller or waitress may be more susceptible to dry, cracked feet. Taking periodic breaks by sitting and wearing proper shoes that are breathable, comfortable and non-contorting will reduce the risk of developing dry, cracked feet.
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