What Causes Cracked Heels & How Podiatrists Help

What Causes Cracked Heels & How Podiatrists Help

Foot Health & Care

Understanding Cracked Heels and How to Manage Them

If you notice thick, hard skin around your heels that eventually splits, you are not alone. Heel calluses and cracked skin are common issues caused by repeated pressure and friction.

In this video, podiatrist Kent demonstrates how clinical debridement works and explains what you can do at home to help maintain smooth, healthy skin.

Why Do Heels Develop Calluses and Cracks?

When your feet experience continuous pressure during standing or walking, the skin responds by producing excess keratin. This creates a thickened layer of skin known as a callus. Over time, particularly when wearing open-backed footwear, this toughened skin loses moisture, dries out, and cracks under pressure. Deep splits can become uncomfortable and expose lower skin layers if left unmanaged.

How Podiatrists Treat and Care for Heel Calluses

In a clinical setting, a podiatrist uses a specialised scalpel blade to debride (trim away) dead, thickened tissue down to the dermal-epidermal junction. Removing this hard skin reduces tension on the cracks so healthy skin can regenerate. Scalpel debridement should always be performed by a qualified health professional to avoid injury or infection.

Tips for Managing Heel Calluses at Home

  • Apply a moisturiser containing 10% to 15% urea daily to help retain moisture in thick skin.
  • Wear enclosed shoes rather than open-backed sandals to trap moisture and reduce heel friction.
  • Choose supportive footwear that cushions your heel to help distribute pressure evenly across your foot.
  • Seek professional podiatry care regularly if calluses or deep cracks reoccur.
Podiatrist TipPairing a urea-based moisturiser with supportive, enclosed footwear helps reduce moisture loss and cushions the heel against high pressure throughout the day.

Support Your Feet Every Step of the Way

Help reduce excessive pressure on your heels with supportive footwear designed by podiatrists.

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This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified health professional regarding foot conditions.

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