Cracked heels are quite common and quite curable as well if given proper care and attention. Due to excess and persistent pressure on the heels, they tend to develop a thick and hard layer of skin as a protective measure.

However, long periods of sustaining the pressure can cause this layer of dry skin to crack. With additional weight or extended exposure to hard surfaces, these cracks are likely to become deep fissures that might suffer from infections and can start bleeding as well.

How can you protect your feet and avoid cracked heels? Here are some useful and preventive tips:

• Moisturizing your feet is helpful to get rid of dry skin from the heels. Application of cream or petroleum jelly has shown positive results. Moreover, repeating your moisturizing routine several times throughout the day is very effective.
• Removing cracked and dry skin, especially during bathing, helps in restoring smooth heels. As the skin of your heels becomes soft, it is easier to remove the cracked parts by using a foot scrubber.
• It is advised not to wear open shoes if you have cracked heels, as exposure tends to make the skin harder and drier. As a result, your heels may become itchy and the cracks are likely to grow deeper.
• Wearing cotton socks is recommended for the protection of your heels from cracking. Covering your feet with socks at night after moisturizing also helps in developing softer and smoother heels.
• Orthotic inserts provide effective cushioning and allow pressure to be rightly distributed along your feet, ankles and heels. Consult your podiatrist for the right device and proper foot care.

At Joseph Stuto, DPM, our board-certified podiatrist Dr. Joseph Stuto specializes in treating foot and ankle issues like diabetic foot complications, fractures, flat feet, joint pains, sprains, foot and toenail infections and more. Contact our offices at Brooklyn and Brooklyn Heights, NY to schedule an appointment today.