The Real Reason Your Heels Are Cracked

Cracked heels are among the most common foot concerns we see in the clinic, especially during the colder months or after long periods of standing. While they often start as dry or rough skin, cracks can deepen quickly and become painful or even infected if left untreated. The good news is that with the right care, cracked heels are very treatable.

Dry skin is the main cause of heel cracks. The skin around the heel is naturally thicker and has fewer oil glands, making it more prone to dryness. Walking barefoot or wearing open-backed shoes allows the heel to expand under pressure, causing the dry skin to split. Conditions such as diabetes, eczema, or poor circulation can also increase the risk and slow healing.

Many people try to treat cracked heels at home with pumice stones or over-the-counter creams. While mild dryness can improve with regular moisturizing, deeper cracks often need more than basic care. Over-filing can actually make the problem worse by removing too much healthy skin and increasing the risk of infection.

A professional cracked heels treatment focuses on safely removing hardened skin, reducing pressure, and restoring moisture to the area. In the clinic, we carefully debride thick calluses, treat painful fissures, and recommend medical-grade moisturizers, such as PodoExpert, that are more effective than standard lotions. If cracks are bleeding, painful, or not improving, it is a sign that professional care is needed. Please don’t let it get to that point. See your chiropodist to reduce callus build-up and prevent fissures.

Prevention is just as important as treatment. Applying a urea-based foot cream daily, such as Dermal Therapy, wearing supportive, closed-back footwear, and avoiding walking barefoot can help keep heels soft and flexible. Regular chiropody visits can also prevent cracks from returning, especially for those with ongoing skin dryness or underlying medical conditions.

Ignoring cracked heels can lead to discomfort, infection, and difficulty walking. Early treatment of cracked heels can restore comfort and keep your feet healthy year-round. If your heels are painful or splitting, booking an assessment is the first step toward relief.