Do you notice the skin on your heels becoming drier than usual in the colder months? You’re not alone! When dry skin turns into painful cracks known as fissures, however, it’s time to take action.

Ignoring them could lead to infection, especially in those with conditions like diabetes. For this blog post, Advanced Foot Care of NJ will help you spot the signs that something’s amiss and act quickly before anything gets out of hand.

Understanding Heel Fissures

As we age, our skin naturally becomes drier, losing its elasticity. During winter, this dryness is often exacerbated.

The heels, which endure significant pressure and friction, are particularly vulnerable.
When the skin on the heels gets excessively dry, it can crack, forming fissures.
These fissures can be quite painful, making walking and standing difficult.

Some patients visit our office complaining of heel pain without even realizing they have fissures.

What to Do About Dryness

Preventative Measures: Don’t wait for cracks to appear! Start by applying moisturizing cream to your feet, especially your heels, twice daily. Over-the-counter options like Curel, Aveeno, and Lubriderm are good starting points.
Avoid Prolonged Soaking: Contrary to popular belief, soaking your feet can actually make them drier.
Don’t Wear Socks to Bed: Your skin needs to breathe. Give it a chance to do so overnight.
Address Cracks Immediately: If you notice a crack forming, apply Neosporin or a triple antibiotic ointment in addition to your moisturizer to prevent infection.
Seek Professional Help: If over-the-counter remedies aren’t effective, or if you have deep, painful fissures, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist! We can safely remove excess dry skin and check for any signs of infection. There are also prescription-strength creams that can be very effective in healing fissures.

Special Considerations for Diabetics

If you have diabetes, any break in the skin, including a fissure, should be promptly evaluated by a podiatrist! Diabetes can impair circulation and nerve function in the feet, making them more prone to infection and slower to heal.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, our doctor and staff proudly serve the communities of Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!