Heel Fissures Symptoms and Relief

If you've ever experienced painful cracks in your heels, you know just how uncomfortable and frustrating they can be. 

These cracks, known as heel fissures, are a common foot condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into what heel fissures are, their symptoms, their causes, and most importantly - how to treat and prevent them effectively.

What Are Heel Fissures?

Heel fissures, also known as cracked heels, are linear cuts or cracks in the skin of the heel. These fissures can range from shallow to deep and can be extremely painful, especially when walking or standing. In severe cases, the cracks may bleed or become infected, leading to more serious complications.

Heel fissures are most commonly caused by excessive pressure or open shoes which expose the heel. You may be more prone to heel fissures if you make a habit of wearing rubber or leather sandals often rather than proper shoes. 

What are the Symptoms of Heel Fissures?

The most obvious symptom of heel fissures is the appearance of visible cracks in the skin of the heel. These cracks may be accompanied by:

• Dry, flaky, or callused skin around the heel
• Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
• Itching or burning sensation in the affected area
• Bleeding from deep fissures
• Redness and inflammation around the cracks

If left untreated, heel fissures can worsen over time and lead to infection, making it crucial to address the issue promptly. Pain from heel fissures ranges from dull to sharp depending upon the level of irritation and compression of the nerves that are around these areas.

What are the Causes of Heel Fissures?

Heel fissures are most commonly caused by exposure to the elements which irritate the skin and cause it to crack. There are several factors can contribute to the development of heel fissures though, including:

• Dry skin: The most common cause of heel fissures is dry skin, which can be exacerbated by cold weather, low humidity, and hot showers.
• Prolonged standing: People who stand for long periods, such as retail workers or healthcare professionals, are more prone to developing heel fissures due to the increased pressure on their feet.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on the feet, leading to dry, cracked heels.
• Open-back shoes: Wearing shoes with an open back, such as sandals or flip-flops, can cause the fat pad under the heel to expand sideways, increasing the risk of fissures.
• Certain medical conditions: Diabetes, eczema, psoriasis, and hypothyroidism can all contribute to dry, cracked skin on the heels.

What Can I Do to Treat Heel Fissures?

Treating heel fissures involves a combination of self-care measures and over-the-counter products:

Moisturize regularly

Keeping your heels well-hydrated is crucial in preventing and treating fissures. Apply a thick, hydrating moisturizer to your heels at least twice a day, especially after showering or bathing when your skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in moisture and keeps the skin supple.

Often, a good long soak can in tandem with moisturizing to help:

• Rest your feet in warm soapy water for 20 minutes
• Gently scrub them with a loofah or pumice stone. Aim to scrub away the hardened skin on your heel but be careful to not scrub too hard so as to damage your skin.
• Dry your feet thoroughly and then apply a heavy moisturizer, such as petroleum jelly, to your dry feet.
• Put a pair of socks on to keep the moisturizer in place.

Wear proper footwear or insoles

The shoes you wear play a significant role in the health of your heels. Choose closed-back shoes that fit well and provide adequate support for your heels. Avoid shoes that expose your heels, such as sandals or flip-flops, especially if you're prone to heel fissures.

Consider using specialized insoles designed to provide extra cushioning and support for your heels. These can help distribute pressure more evenly across your foot, reducing the strain on your heels and minimizing pain when walking.

Apply heel balms

Over-the-counter heel balms can be highly effective in treating and preventing heel fissures. Look for products containing ingredients such as:

• Urea: A powerful moisturizer that can help soften thick, dry skin.
• Salicylic acid: Helps exfoliate dead skin cells and soften calluses.
• Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs): These gentle acids help exfoliate and moisturize the skin.
• Vitamin E: Known for its healing and moisturizing properties.

Apply these balms regularly, following the product instructions for best results.

Protect your heels

Creating a protective barrier on your heels can help lock in moisture and promote healing. Before bedtime, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a healing ointment to your heels. Then, cover them with a pair of soft, cotton socks. This overnight treatment can significantly improve the condition of your heels.

Do Insoles Help with Heel Fissures?

While insoles do not directly treat heel fissures, they can help alleviate pain and prevent further cracking by providing cushioning and support for the heels. 

Look for insoles with:

• A deep heel cup 
• Shock-absorbing materials that distribute pressure evenly across the foot.

Some examples of these types of insoles include: Cadence Original, Form Max, and Powerstep Pinnacle.

Heel fissures may be painful and unsightly, but with the right combination of self-care, over-the-counter treatments, and preventive measures, you can effectively manage and prevent this common foot condition. By keeping your heels moisturized, exfoliated, and well-supported, you'll be on your way to smoother, healthier, and pain-free feet in no time.