Understanding cracked heels
Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin around the edge of the heel becomes dry, thickened, and eventually splits. These cracks are often more than a cosmetic concern; when deep, they can lead to significant pain, bleeding, and a high risk of infection. While frequent standing and open-back footwear are common causes, identifying underlying factors such as gait imbalances is essential to resolving the excessive pressure on your heels.
Professional care and prevention
While moisturising is helpful, deep fissures often require clinical intervention to heal safely. Our podiatrists provide specialized treatments to remove hard skin and promote healthy tissue regeneration. Your personalized care plan may include:
- Professional debridement to safely and painlessly remove thickened, dead skin
- Clinical-strength emollient therapy to restore deep hydration to the skin
- Clinical-strength emollient therapy to restore deep hydration to the skin
- Custom orthotics to redistribute weight and reduce the mechanical stress on your heels
- Long-term prevention advice on footwear and daily skin maintenance to keep your heels smooth