Heel Fissures

Heel Fissures, also known as cracked heels, can be a nuisance cosmetically, but can also lead to more serious medical problems. Heel Fissures occur when the shin around the heel becomes dry, hard, and develops Calluses. These Calluses can break open, sometimes causing deep cracks or fissures that can be painful and even bleed.

Heel Fissures can affect anyone, however, the risk is higher for people who live in a dry climate, are obese, wear sandal or open backed shoes and/or go barefoot, and who have inactive sweat glands. Like many foot conditions, Heel Fissures can become dangerous if left untreated and become deep or infected. This is especially dangerous for the elderly, people with diabetes, and people with weakened immune systems.

A good medicated moisturizing foot cream or lotion used regularly can prevent Heel Fissures. Moisturize twice a day, and at night use socks to help push the cream or lotion into the skin. Once the Heel Fissure occurs, it is best to use a pumice stone daily to gently decrease the Callused area. Be sure to sanitize your pumice stone after every use to avoid recontamination. Avoid going barefoot or wearing open backed shoes or sandals. Shoes with strong shock absorption can help to improve the condition. Triple antibiotic ointment is good to apply to Heel Fissures to reduce the risk of infection as these cracks are open skin wounds and are at high risk of infection. If you have Heel Fissures and severe pain with redness and/or swelling of the area occurs, call you doctor immediately. If you are a diabetic and Heel Fissures have developed call your doctor immediately and never put creams or lotions between your toes.

Feet are constantly changing as we age. Have your fit checked regularly and remember the size on the measuring device is only a reference. Mass manufactured shoes are NOT all created equal. Refer to the Shoe Fitting Reference Guide for proper guidelines on how to best fit your shoes.

If you are following these guidelines and are still suffering from Heel Fissures you must consult a physician for a proper diagnosis and treatment.