Cracked Heels - Causes, Remedies and Preventions

Cracked Heels - Causes, Remedies and Preventions

Cracked heels are a common foot problem that are often referred to as heel fissures. Cracked heels are commonly caused by dry skin (Eros), and made more complicated if the skin around the rim of the heel is thick (callus).

For most people this is a nuisance and a cosmetic problem but when the fissures or cracks are deep, they are painful to stand on and the skin can bleed - in severe cases this can become infected.
Cracked Heels Symptoms

Cracks in the rim of the heel or soles or web of toes are the main symptoms. The length and width may vary depending upon the position and pressure exerted. The edges of the cracks are usually raised as crusts and resist healing. Other than fissures, mostly there won’t be any symptoms. But in extreme cases, pain will be more with bleeding and restriction of movement. Also, there will be pain in the cracks while walking or standing or touching the part. Red raw part may show in some deep ulcers. Discharges can occur in case of infection.

Cracked Heels Home remedies

Applying an oil based moisturizing cream twice daily is really important to get on top of this problem. A pumice stone can be used to reduce the thickness of the hard skin. After looking at the 'tomato' analogy above it should be obvious why it is important to avoid open backed shoes or thin soled shoes.

Never try to reduce the hard skin your self with a razor blade or a pair of scissors. There is a risk of an infection developing and taking too much off.

Cracked Heels Prevention

Because so many viruses cause them, there isn't a vaccine that can protect against catching colds. But to help prevent them, kids should:

- Try to steer clear of anyone who smokes or who has a cold. Virus particles can travel up to 12 feet (3.7 meters) through the air when someone with a cold coughs or sneezes, and even secondhand smoke can make your child more likely to get sick.

- Wash their hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after blowing their noses.

- Cover their noses and mouths when coughing or sneezing.

Do not use the same towels or eating utensils as someone who has a cold. They also shouldn't drink from the same glass, can, or bottle as anyone else - you never know who might be about to come down with a cold and is already spreading the virus.

Do not pick up other people's used tissues

Do :
- Keep soles clean
- Wear soft, cushioned, comfortable shoes or slippers
- Wear socks to prevent friction
- Apply oil, if there is dryness
- Take rich sources of vitamins - fruits, dates, leafy vegetables etc.

Should not do:
- Walking bare foot
- Tight shoes
- Standing for a long time in water
- Contact of bleaching powder or any other chemical
- Using strong chemical soaps