Cracked heels develop when the skin on the back of the foot becomes dry, thick, and less flexible, eventually splitting under pressure. These splits can be tender, unsightly, and sometimes deep enough to cause bleeding or infection. Restoring comfort begins with softening the skin so it can heal. Warm water soaks help loosen the outer layers, and applying a rich, emollient cream afterward locks in moisture. Regular use of products that gently break down thickened skin can also improve texture over time. Wearing supportive footwear with closed backs helps reduce pulling on the skin and prevents further cracking. Keeping socks on after moisturizing encourages better absorption and protects healing tissue. Because deeper fissures can lead to complications, especially for individuals with diabetes or circulation concerns, any persistent or painful cracking deserves attention. If your cracked heels are not improving or feel increasingly uncomfortable, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper treatment and guidance.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Harold Koehler, DPM from University Foot & Ankle. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Paying attention to your feet can help catch problems early and keep you comfortable. Start by looking at your feet each day. Check for color changes, swelling, cracks, or areas that feel warm or tender. Notice any thickened nails or changes in shape. Use a mirror, if needed, to see the bottoms. Clean your feet with mild soap and warm water, then dry them well, especially between the toes. Apply moisturizer to prevent dryness, but avoid the spaces between toes. Trim nails straight across and wear well-fitting shoes that do not rub or pinch. Additionally, replace worn footwear and choose socks that keep feet dry. Staying active can support circulation and overall foot health. If you notice ongoing changes or have foot discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate care plan.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Harold Koehler, DPM from University Foot & Ankle. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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