May 2024

Cracked heels, medically termed heel fissures, are characterized by dry, flaky skin and fissures, or splits, in the skin around the heels. This condition often occurs when the skin on the heels becomes excessively dry and loses its elasticity, leading to cracks that can be painful and unsightly. Several factors contribute to the development of cracked heels, including prolonged standing, walking barefoot, wearing open-back shoes, or exposure to harsh weather conditions. Additionally, factors such as obesity, diabetes, and certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can increase the risk of cracked heels. Lack of proper foot care, including inadequate moisturizing or exfoliation, can worsen the problem. Left untreated, cracked heels may deepen, leading to bleeding, infection, and discomfort while walking or standing. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can successfully treat this condition by prescribing medication.

Dry, cracked heels are more than a cosmetic inconvenience. For many people, they are uncomfortable, deep, painful, and may even bleed. If you suffer from cracked heels, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes

• Prolonged standing

• Wearing open-back shoes

• Wearing shoes that don’t cushion the heels

• Living in a cold or dry climate

• Taking long, hot showers

• Not moisturizing the heels

• Eczema

• Psoriasis

• Palmoplantar keratoderma

• Juvenile plantar dermatosis

Treatments

• Soaking the feet

• Exfoliating with a pumice stone

• Moisturizing the heels

• Wearing closed-back shoes that cushion heels

• Avoiding prolonged standing 

• Taking warm, rather than hot, showers

• Treating underlying skin conditions 

While milder cases of cracked heels can be treated at home, some patients present with deep, painful, bleeding heel fissures that are at risk of becoming infected and may require medical care. Additionally, patients with diabetes or any other conditions that affect the immune system should be monitored by a chiropodist. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

With age, both men and women experience changes in their feet. Women, particularly those over 50, tend to face a higher risk of foot issues. Factors such as hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and decreased bone density in older age contribute to this vulnerability. Additionally, the habit of wearing high heels can cause problems, increasing pressure on the front of the feet. Experts note that aging leads to a decrease in the elasticity of soft tissues, resulting in conditions like collapsed arches and Achilles tendonitis. Common foot ailments among seniors include stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, and osteoarthritis. In some cases, simple measures like wearing supportive shoes and engaging in low-impact exercises can alleviate symptoms. But persistent foot pain warrants professional attention. Seeking help from a chiropodist ensures an accurate diagnosis and suggested treatment options that help to prevent further complications. Prevention tips include regular foot measurements before buying shoes, suitable footwear choices, and gentle stretching exercises. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an exam.

Foot problems can become increasingly common as we age, making everyday foot care especially important. To learn more about maintaining proper foot health, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Foot Problems

Certain foot problems may be more likely to affect older adults. 

Some examples of foot conditions that can be common in older adults include: 

• Dry, cracked skin

• Calluses and corns

• Blisters

• Ingrown toenails

• Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes

• Fungal infections

• Plantar warts

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, are also more likely to affect older people and manifest symptoms in the feet and ankles. 

Daily Foot Care Tips

Having a daily foot care routine can help detect problems early on and prevent future issues. 

Things that you can do at home to care for your feet include: 

• Washing the feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying a moisturizer 

• Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails

• Performing daily foot exercises to improve foot strength and mobility

• Wearing shoes when walking to avoid injury

• Inspecting the feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities and seeking prompt treatment if any problems are discovered 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.