Categories
- Cardiology 84
- Dermatology 45
- Endocrinology 33
- ENT 16
- Fertility 190
- Gastroenterology 78
- General-Medicine 81
- Gynecology 80
- Hematology 19
- Infectious-Diseases 33
- Neurology 52
- Oncology 34
- Ophthalmology 23
- Orthopedics 69
- Pediatrics 31
- Procedure 23
- Public-Health 144
- Pulmonology 59
- Radiology 8
- Urology 68
- Wellness 161
- Woman-and-child 77
![Cracked Heels Cracked Heels](https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/images/articles/cracked-heels.webp)
Cracked Heels: Causes, Treatment and Home Remedies
Cracked heels, also referred to as heel cracks, are a common foot condition that causes discomfort or even pain. People result from dry skin and are followed by thickened skin, sometimes with yellow or brown calluses around the heel edge. If the cracks in the heels are dense, they can be painful, hurting when a person stands up, and sometimes they might bleed.
Secure your health with a second opinion. Make informed decisions and book your appointment today!
Get A Second OpinionCauses or reasons for cracked heels
- Longer standing, especially on hard floors
- Wearing shoes or sandals with open back
- To have calluses
- Diabetes, which increases the pressure of the heels
- Skin disorders, such as foot athlete, psoriasis, or eczema
- Vitamin Deficiency
- Fungal Infection
- Hypothyroidism
- Atopic dermatitis
- Psoriasis
- Obesity
- Aging
What are the symptoms of cracked heels?
- Flaky skin
- Itching
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Red, inflamed skin
- Ulceration
- Loss of feeling in your heel
- Cellulitis, an infection
- Diabetic foot ulcer
Cracked heels treatment
Moisturizers and Emollients:
Prescription or over-the-counter moisturizers containing ingredients like urea, salicylic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acids can help soften and exfoliate the skin, reducing cracking.
Topical Steroids:
In cases of inflammation or dermatitis, your doctor may prescribe topical corticosteroids to reduce redness, itching, and swelling.
Prescription Medications:
In severe cases or if an underlying condition is present, your doctor may prescribe oral medications like retinoids or immunosuppressants to help improve skin health.
Antifungal or Antibacterial Creams:
If fungal or bacterial infections are contributing to cracked heels, your doctor may recommend topical antifungal or antibacterial creams or ointments.
Debridement:
For thickened or callused skin, your doctor may perform debridement to remove dead or excess tissue, promoting healing.
Foot Soaks:
Prescription foot soaks containing ingredients like potassium permanganate or diluted bleach may be recommended to help cleanse and disinfect the skin.
Custom Orthotics:
If mechanical factors like flat feet or improper gait contribute to cracked heels, your foot doctor may prescribe custom orthotic inserts to provide support and relieve pressure on the feet.
Home remedies for cracked heels
Moisturizing:
Apply a thick moisturizing cream or petroleum jelly to your heels daily, especially after bathing or exfoliating, to help lock in moisture.
Oils:
Massage your heels with natural oils like coconut oil, olive oil, or almond oil to help moisturize and soften the skin. You can also add a few drops of essential oils like lavender or tea tree oil for added benefits.
Honey:
Apply raw honey directly to your heels and cover with socks overnight to help lock in moisture and promote healing.
Banana Paste:
Mash a ripe banana and apply the paste to your heels for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off to help moisturize and nourish the skin.
Stay Hydrated:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, which can help prevent dry, cracked skin.
Wear Socks:
Wear cotton socks to bed after applying moisturizer or petroleum jelly to help seal in moisture and prevent further drying.
Healthy Diet:
Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E, to promote skin health and healing.
Avoid Harsh Soaps:
Use mild, moisturizing soaps and avoid harsh chemicals or exfoliants that can further dry out the skin.
Ready to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!
Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
To heal cracked heels quickly, you can try moisturizing regularly with a thick cream or petroleum jelly, exfoliating dead skin with a pumice stone, and wearing socks overnight to lock in moisture.
Cracked heels can be caused by various factors, including dry skin, standing for long periods, wearing open-back shoes, obesity, aging, or underlying medical conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorders.
Cracked heels can be associated with deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin E, vitamin B, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in these nutrients may help prevent cracked heels.
Over-the-counter creams containing urea, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids may help soften and exfoliate the skin on cracked heels. Consult a healthcare professional for advice on the best medicine for your specific condition.
![Book Free Appointment](https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/images/form_person.webp)
Categories
- Cardiology 84
- Dermatology 45
- Endocrinology 33
- ENT 16
- Fertility 190
- Gastroenterology 78
- General-Medicine 81
- General 6
- Gynecology 80
- Hematology 19
- Infectious-Diseases 33
- Neurology 52
- Oncology 34
- Ophthalmology 23
- Orthopedics 69
- Pediatrics 31
- Procedure 23
- Public-Health 144
- Pulmonology 59
- Radiology 8
- Urology 68
- Wellness 161
- Woman-and-child 77