Cracked Heels and Fissures

As the fall approaches in Texas, it’s time to start treating those abused feet from the long summer and prolonged use of flip flops. Cracked heels, or fissures, are gaps in the dry skin around the back of the heel that can be painful. These are also known as rim calluses. Usually these are caused by the repetitive friction and pressure forces of our feet moving around in a shoe. This can be caused by prolonged standing on hard surfaces, being overweight because the pressure is increased on the fat pad under the heel, open back shoes because they shift pressure to the sides of the heel causing the skin to crack, or some skin conditions such as psoriasis. They can also be caused by a fungal infection such as Tinea Pedis.

If these fissures are left untreated, they can bleed, become deeper, more painful, and infected. There are a few things your podiatrist can do to help. Your podiatrist will try to find the cause of the problem to help direct the treatment. Removal of the thick hard callus will help promote healing to the area. Over the counter special creams or socks may be used help moisturize the area. Also, a pumice stone can be used to eliminate the thick callous. It does so without the use of a needle or chemical. Advice on footwear may be recommended to help prevent further fissures. To treat those summer feet or any others, come by and see Dr. Grimm or Dr. Pattison for your podiatric concerns.