Cracked Heels (Heel Fissures)

Cracked heels are often caused by a combination of dryness and repeated pressure on the heel. Contributing factors include:

• Dry skin due to weather, aging, or poor hydration
• Standing for long periods, especially on hard surfaces
• Wearing open-back shoes or sandals
• Obesity, which increases pressure on the heels
• Foot deformities like flat feet or high arches
• Eczema, psoriasis, or fungal infections
• Diabetes or peripheral neuropathy

Cracked heels can lead to infections if not treated properly, especially in diabetic patients or those with poor circulation.

Our podiatrists will:

• Examine the skin and assess for fissure depth
• Evaluate footwear and gait
• Check for signs of infection or underlying skin conditions
• Perform neurological or vascular testing if systemic causes are suspected

Conservative Treatment

• Medical-grade debridement to remove thickened skin
• Prescription-strength urea or salicylic acid creams to soften calluses
• Moisturizing regimens with occlusive wraps or socks
• Custom orthotics to offload pressure points
• Footwear guidance to prevent friction and dryness

Advanced Therapies

• Botox injections (in hyperhidrosis-related fissures)
• Shockwave therapy for chronic heel inflammation
• Antifungal or corticosteroid creams for skin infections
• Skin biopsy if underlying dermatoses are suspected

• Apply thick moisturizers daily (preferably before bed)
• Avoid walking barefoot on hard or dry surfaces
• Use pumice stones gently to remove dry skin (only when advised)
• Keep hydrated and wear supportive, cushioned shoes

• In-office debridement and wound care
• Expertise in dermatological and diabetic foot conditions
• Personalized footwear and orthotic solutions
• Convenient Santa Monica and Cedars-Sinai locations