Cracked Heels

Dry, cracked heels can not only be unsightly but can often be a source of pain and embarrassment. Cracked heels involve the splitting (also known as fissuring) and cracking of the skin around the borders of your heels. This can be caused by the skin being dry or thickened with callus. When the skin becomes dry or thickened, it loses its strength and elasticity and therefore can split under pressure, causing painful and bleeding cracks.

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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 of a pressure sore is starting to develop.

How to treat cracked heels?

For thickened, callused heels, treatment from one of our podiatrists at Footzone Podiatry is the quickest and most efficient treatment available. Using special instruments, we use a simple pain-free method of debriding cracked heels and callused skin! Remember, all consultations are eligible for private health fund rebates.

For maintenance, after being treated appropriately by one of our expert podiatrists the following is recommended:

  • Use a specific heel balm, two or three times daily
  • A pumice stone can be used to maintain the reduced thickness
  • Wear closed-in shoes and cotton socks where possible
  • Keep hydrated, drink plenty of water
  • If the heel crack has split and is bleeding, use a topical antiseptic twice daily until you can come for assessment and treatment

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Contact Us - Podiatry

Whether you need to ask a question, make or change an appointment or just want to book an appointment, our dedicated and knowledgeable reception staff are available to help.

To get in touch, simply give us a call on 01737 762990 during our opening hours or send us a message using the contact form and we will get in touch.

Please note online booking is currently not available for Podiatry Services due to the often complex nature of enquiries

Other Conditions We Treat

verrucae

Children and Verrucae

chillblains

CHILBLAINS

Corn and Callus

Corns and Callus

Podiatry and Reflexology Hero

Sweaty Feet

footzone-athletes-foot

Athlete's Foot

What our clients say

I have been attending this clinic for the last 13 – 14 years. I have problems with ingrowing toenails and have had nail surgery. The care I received was excellent both with the surgery and aftercare

Pam M – Reigate

I was quite anxious on my first visit, having never used any service like this before, but they immediately put me at ease. They are so welcoming and friendly, knowledgeable and informative. The clinic is exceptionally well run, clean and organised and I feel in safe hands. Now it’s one of my favourite health “jobs” to do

Mandy R – Horley

This was my first visit to a podiatrist. I was really impressed on my first visit and everyone was very friendly. They diagnosed my problem very quickly and knew exactly what to do. I was immediately put at ease and, although the problem has required further treatment, I feel that my feet are in very good hands!!! Thank you!!!

Philip R – Redhill

Very quickly established the cause of issues and a plan to get it sorted. Each appointment has been excellent and very clear on how to tackle the problem. Fingers crossed for flip-flops in the summer!

Laura S – Reigate

Very positive experience. Lovely people and excellent treatment over several years. My feet are kept in prime condition!

Robert B – Redhill

Very professional, excellent service, and always a friendly face! You would be hard pushed to find a better Podiatrist.

Sue SJ – Reigate