Cracked
Heels
Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, can be more than just a cosmetic concern. They can cause pain and discomfort and, in severe cases, can lead to infection. At Infinite Podiatry, we offer a range of professional treatments to heal your cracked heels and restore your foot health.
What Causes Cracked Heels?
Cracked heels are often caused by a combination of factors. Understanding the cause is the first step toward effective treatment. Common causes include:
Dry Skin: A lack of moisture can make the skin on your heels dry, hard, and prone to cracking.
Excessive Pressure: Standing for long periods, especially on hard surfaces, can put pressure on the fat pad under the heel, causing it to expand and crack the skin.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like athlete’s foot, psoriasis, eczema, and diabetes can contribute to the problem.
Wearing Open-Backed Shoes: Sandals or flip-flops can allow the fat pad to expand sideways, increasing the risk of cracking.
- Systemic Issues: Often due to underlying conditions, asuch as diabetes, psoriasis or eczema.
Our Professional Treatment Plan
We provide personalized care to address the root cause of your cracked heels. Our treatment approach may include:
Debridement: This is a gentle, pain-free process where a podiatrist safely removes the hard, dead skin (callus) from around the cracks. This promotes healing and reduces pressure.
Professional Moisturizing & Dressings: We can apply medical-grade emollients and dressings to help the skin heal, retain moisture, and prevent further cracking.
Custom Orthotics: If your cracked heels are caused by poor foot biomechanics or gait, custom orthotics can help by redistributing pressure and supporting your feet properly.
Footwear Advice: We’ll provide expert advice on the best types of shoes to wear to protect your heels and prevent the condition from returning.
For severe cases, we may also recommend specific topical treatments or other medical interventions. Don’t suffer in silence—let our team help you get back on your feet comfortably.