Can removing the dry and hardened portion of the foot and applying a moisturizer help overcome heel cracks?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 24-year-old female of medium height, weighing approximately 103 pounds. I consistently experience pain in my heels, particularly after sleeping, and I also have persistent cracks on my heels. This issue has been bothering me since last year, and I am uncertain about the underlying problem. Despite applying heel balm for the past two months, I have not seen any improvement. Please suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The pain in your heels may be attributed to the cracks you have mentioned. These are areas of dry skin that lose their elasticity, resulting in fissures on the foot. This condition tends to occur more frequently in individuals who are often barefoot or wear poorly constructed, hard, and rough footwear. The primary strategy we employ here is to maintain foot moisturization using creams such as petroleum jelly. To start, gently rub the dry and hardened portions of your foot during your bath, and then apply any foot care cream (petroleum jelly can suffice) every night. I typically recommend this treatment to my patients and have seen positive results thus far. Additionally, it is essential to keep your feet covered during the winter months and opt for smooth and soft footwear. I suggest trying this regimen for a month, and I am confident that you will observe improvements. Please keep me informed about your progress.

Thank you.