Preventing and Treating Cracked Heels

Preventing and Treating Heel Cracks

Heel cracks (foot cracks or rhagades) are splits or fissures in the skin around the heels. They range from superficial splits to deep grooves that can be painful. Here you can read how they occur, how to treat and prevent them – also with good foot care and PediSpray®.

What are heel cracks?

Heel cracks are the result of dry skin, callus formation, and pressure on the heel. The skin splits when more skin cells are produced than are shed. Contributing factors include: dehydration (cold winters, frequent washing without cream), overweight, open shoes or sandals, and conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or diabetes. Also, sweaty feet can contribute to cracks due to a disturbed moisture balance.

Symptoms of heel cracks

Dry, rough, and flaky heels, excess callus, visible splits or cracks. Pain when walking, especially with deep cracks. In severe cases, bleeding or redness.

Treatment of heel cracks

Regularly moisturise your feet with a moisturising cream or ointment, especially after showering or bathing. Wear well-fitting, closed shoes. Remove excess callus in time – have this done by a pedicurist or carefully use a pumice stone. For severe cracks: consult a podiatrist.

Treating heel cracks yourself

Use moisturising creams or heel crack cream. Special heel crack plasters protect the skin and promote healing. Moisturising socks can be worn overnight to soften the skin.

Preventing heel cracks

Wear shoes that support your feet and do not expose your heels. Regularly moisturise your heels with cream. For sweaty feet: use moisture-wicking socks or PediSpray® to improve moisture balance. Remove callus in time to prevent cracks.