Cracked heels is a common foot problem that is often referred to as heel fissures. This is caused by dry skin (Xerosis), and made more complicated if the skin around the rim of the heel is thick (callus). For most people this is a nuisance and a cosmetic problem. For others with deep fissures/cracks, this condition can cause pain when standing, and the additional pressure on the skin can cause it to bleed. In severe cases these bleeding areas can become infected.

For most with this condition, the skin on the heel is dry, callused and the affected area tends to appear yellow to a dark brown in color, especially along the border of the heel. Cracks in the skin are usually obvious.

Causes:

Prolonged standing (especially on hard floors), being overweight (increases pressure on the pad under the heel), or wearing thin soled shoes/flip-flops can aggravate the condition. Some medical conditions like Autonomic Neuropathy, Psoriasis or Eczema predispose people to drying skin, and an under-active thyroid lowers the body's metabolic rate, reduces sweating, and can lead to extremely dry skin.

Treatment:

Apply a thick oil based moisturizing ointment like Blue Star Ointment twice daily; this is important to get and stay on top of this problem. A pumice stone can be used to reduce the thickness of the hard, callused skin. Never try to eliminate this skin with a razor blade or a pair of scissors. There is a risk of an infection if too much skin is removed.