Items filtered by date: July 2025

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thickened, and splits open. One common cause is a deficiency in essential nutrients like vitamin E, which helps maintain skin health. Other contributing factors include dry skin, harsh soaps that strip natural oils, poor foot hygiene, wearing improper footwear, and age-related skin thinning. Cracked heels can become painful and lead to infections if left untreated. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity, recommend moisturizing treatments, offer debridement of thick skin, and suggest proper footwear or custom inserts. Cracked heels can be painful. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide expert care and tailored solutions for your foot health needs.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of out podiatrists from Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.