How to treat dry cracked heels?

Dry cracked heels can be unsightly, uncomfortable and down right painful. If the callus becomes thick enough it may split results in damage to the underlying skin. This can also result in secondary infection as the foot is often associated with multiple fungal and/or bacterial elements. Here are some tips to address this common foot condition:

1) Regular use of heel balm: Dehydrated skin has a much lower ability to withstand the everyday wear and tear our heels encounter. Daily use of heel balms keep the skin hydrated and better able to cope with everyday stresses . I often recommend Eulactol or NS-8.

2) Avoiding prolonged use of thongs or open heeled sandals: The friction applied to the skin of the heels from this style of footwear creates callus as the body attempts to protect the underlying epidermis. Wearing shoes or sandals that have a heel counter will provide stability reducing friction.

3) Pumice stone or file: rubbing a pumice stone or abrasive file over the heels after a hot shower can be an effective way of removing unwanted callus. Do not be to vigorous so as to avoid injury to the underlying skin.

4) Podiatric sharp debridement and mandrilling: In many cases the callus has grown so thick and cracked the above mentioned strategies will be ineffective. At this point it would be worthwhile to call your local podiatrist whose skilled hands will remove the unwanted callus after which time self management will be far more effective.

I hope you found this FOOT FACT helpful. If you have any questions about podiatry and related health issues use our online enquiry form on the Podiatry clinic Chatswood website Chatswood Podiatry

Posted by Luke Bortolussi: Bachelor of Applied Science (Podiatry)