Dry, cracked heels can not only be unsightly, but can often be source of pain and embarrassment. At Elite Podiatry, we can help treat and resolve this problem
What causes cracked heels?
There are several reasons cracked heels can occur. Some of these include the following:
- Walking barefooted
- Walking in open footwear such as thongs or sandals
- Standing up for long hours, especially on hard floors
- Increased weight
- Dehydration
- Abnormal walking pattern (orthotics may reduce this)
- Diabetes
- Decreased blood supply to the feet (eg. Peripheral Vascular Disease – PVD)
- Psoriasis & Eczema
- Some medications (eg. Diuretics, chemotherapy)
- Climate changes (eg. Dry summers or cold winters)
Note: In elderly or bed-/chair-ridden people, cracked or sore heels can be the sign that a pressure sore may be starting to develop. These cases should be referred to the podiatrists at Elite Podiatry for assessment as soon as possible.
How are Cracked Heels treated?
For thickened, callused heels and skin, treatment from one of our podiatrists at Elite Podiatry involves a simple pain free method using special instruments to remove or rather “debride” the callused skin and cracks.
Remember, all consultations are eligible for private health fund rebate.
For maintenance, after being treated appropriately by one of our expert podiatrists at Elite Podiatry, the following is recommended:
- Using a specific heel balm daily.
- A pumice stone to reduce the build up in between appointments.
- Wearing closed-in shoes and cotton socks where possible.
- Keeping well hydrated, drink plenty of water.
- If the heel crack has split and is bleeding, using a topical antiseptic twice daily until you can come for assessment and treatment to reduce risk of infection.
We have a range of treatments available to help relieve and prevent such conditions and improve your quality of life.
At Elite Podiatry, we often use adjunct therapies to offer the most effective form of treatment.
Depending on your requirements, we will customise a treatment suitable to your needs.
Please call us at Elite Podiatry to organise an appointment for an assessment, diagnosis and treatment.
