Cracked heels are not a harmful in anyway except when the fissures or cracks are deep, and tend to become painful and the skin begins to bleed. This could lead to infection and is an avoidable situation mostly for those already suffering from chronic ailments such as diabetes, or lowering immune system due to age or illness which may retard the treatment of cracked heels.
Cracked heels are a common occurrence for senior citizens or people who are constantly on their feet thus exerting pressure on the feet pad. In addition to this, sebum production decreases with age and so seniors tend to suffer from dry and cracked heels. Excessively dry skin, peeling skin, and dry and cracked skin on the heels are some of the most common skin problems that seniors face. Dry skin on the heels is often a recurrent problem. It can affect either both the heels or one of the heel. But most commonly, cracked heels affect both the feet.
Signs and symptoms that surface on the skin are simple indicators of a faulty internal activity or an external abuse. If one observes the body and its manifestations minutely one can avoid disease and disorders by treating them before they take on a destructive path. Similarly, feet care calls for a little attention and when the feet finds it lacking they indicate the following signs to show the feet could do well with some care.
- Red or Flaky Patches
- Peeling and Cracked Skin
- Itchy skin
- Bleeding or Discharge from Cracks.
Here are some simple suggestions towards caring for the feet effortlessly:
- Keep feet clean and dirt free
- Exercise the feet regularly
- Alternate hot and cold water for a feet bath to soothe the feet
- Moisturize and exfoliate the feet whenever possible
- Avoid walking bare feet as much as possible
- Avoid spending prolonged periods in a wet or damp area. When washing clothes, make sure that your feet are well protected.
- Soak your feet in warm water at least once a week as this will help to increase blood circulation to your feet. You can add a spoon of fresh mint leaf juice to the water for relief from dry cracked heels.
- After a shower, apply a little moisturizer to your heels as this will help to seal in moisture and prevent cracking.
Besides using natural methods and the best creams available in the market one could also use shoes that are specially designed for treatment and repair of dry cracked heels.