1. Understanding Heel Fissures
Heel fissures occur when the skin on the heels becomes so dry and thick that it splits open. This condition is often exacerbated by the pressure of standing or walking, which can cause the skin to crack further. The skin on the heels is naturally thicker than on other parts of the body, and when it loses its elasticity and moisture, it becomes prone to splitting.
In severe cases, heel fissures can become deep and painful, potentially leading to bleeding and infection. It’s important to address the underlying causes of heel fissures to prevent them from worsening and to promote healing.
2. Common Causes of Cracked Heels
Several factors can contribute to the development of cracked heels. One of the most common is prolonged standing, especially on hard surfaces, which places excess pressure on the heels. Additionally, wearing open-backed shoes or sandals can allow the fat under the heel to expand sideways, increasing the risk of cracks.
Other causes include obesity, which adds extra pressure on the heel pad, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and hypothyroidism, which can affect skin health. Environmental factors like cold weather and low humidity can also dry out the skin, leading to heel fissures.
3. Why Lotion Alone Might Not Work
While lotions and creams can provide temporary relief by moisturizing the skin, they may not be sufficient to heal cracked heels if used alone. This is because lotions typically only penetrate the outer layer of the skin and may not address the underlying issues such as thickened skin or calluses.
Moreover, if the skin is too thick or if there are deep cracks, the lotion may not be able to penetrate deeply enough to be effective. In such cases, additional treatments such as exfoliation or the use of occlusive agents to lock in moisture may be necessary.
