When the skin on your feet becomes thick and dry, it can lead to cracks, or fissures in your heels and the soles of your feet. Sometimes cracks in the soles and heels are just unsightly inconvenience, but left untreated, they can become painful and lead to serious infection. Fortunately, conscientious foot care can help prevent and treat dry cracked heels.
Symptoms
According to DermNet NZ, cracked heels and soles begin with dry, hard, thickened skin around the outside of your soles and heels. This dry thick skin, or callus, can be yellow to dark brown in color. Small cracks can grow larger and deeper, becoming painful and bleeding. Untreated, they are prone to bacterial infection, and may require antibiotic ointment or oral medication, depending on the severity of the infection.
Causes
Some people have naturally dry skin that puts them at more risk for developing cracked heels and soles. According to the Foot and Ankle Center of Washington, when weight is put on your heel, it expands sideways. If the skin is not healthy and hydrated, it can cause cracks in your skin. Other factors that can lead to cracked heels include standing for long periods of time, being overweight and wearing open-back shoes.
Prevention
By taking the steps to prevent cracked heels, you can avoid the pain and discomfort associated with the condition. If you are overweight, losing weight will help prevent cracking of the heels. Other ways to help prevent cracked heels are staying hydrated, avoiding hot showers and baths and moisturizing the skin on your feet regularly.
Home Remedies
Home remedies can be an alternative way to treat cracked heels and soles. Wearing socks to bed after moisturizing is an essential practice. According to Natural News, before going to bed, you generously apply an oil, such as almond, grape-seed or olive oil, to your feet. After you have massaged the oil into your feet, put on a pair of heavy cotton socks. Remove the socks in the morning.
Papaya contains enzymes that digest proteins, making it helpful in treating cracked heels and soles. To use, mash a papaya into a mask and spread it onto the afflicted areas. According to Natural News, combination of milk and honey can be used as a moisturizing foot bath. To prepare, combine one cup of honey and two cups of milk. Pour the mixture into a basin. Soak your feet in the bath for 15 minutes, rubbing it into your calluses. You can gently file them down with an emery board or nail file, but take care not to apply too much pressure to delicate tissue.
Podiatrist
If your cracked heels or soles become severe, you should contact your podiatrist, who may remove the calluses or prescribe a high-moisdturizing topical cream. According to DermNet NZ, if you are experiencing a lot of pain, strapping may be required to hold the fissures together while healing occurs. Your podiatrist may also advise you on daily moisturizer use, arch supports and footwear that can help you prevent callus and crack formation in the future.
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