Cracked Heels

This is a common skin problem that can also be referred to as heel fissures. When the skin around the edges of the heel is dry, it can cause the skin to split. It can be quite painful and if the skin is opened it can making you  prone to infections.

Some of the common causes of cracked heels are:

- opened back shoes

- going bare feet

- prolonged standing

- Diabetes as it can cause the skin to dry out

- Dermatitis skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis

You can self treat cracked heels with regular application of cream and filing down of the hard skin with a pumice stone or a paper back  paddle file. However, if the calluses are too thick or fissures are too deep or opened you should seek professional treatment by a podiatrist.