Cracked Heels Treatment
in Novi, Southfield, Howell, and Livonia, MI

During the summertime, open shoes and skin exposed to the elements can lead to dry, cracked heels. Winter and the colder months are the main causes behind the condition at the end of the year. Cracked heels occur when the skin loses its moisture, causing it to dry out and crack. However, with the proper care and treatment, your heels can stay soft, smooth, and healthy all year round.

Table Of Contents

Causes of Cracked
Heels

Dehydrated Skin

Dehydrated skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production also play a role in getting cracked heels.

Prolonged Standing

Spending long hours on your feet can lead to tired feet, sore legs, and fatigued toes, as the muscles in your lower limbs are constantly under pressure. This strain can reduce circulation and cause the skin on your heels to dry out and crack over time, making prolonged standing a common factor in cracked heel development.

Inappropriate Footwear

Wearing shoes that don’t provide proper support or are too tight can put excessive pressure on your heels and feet. Footwear that lacks cushioning or fails to fit correctly can lead to friction, causing the skin to harden and crack. Choosing shoes that fit well and support your feet properly helps prevent heel damage.

Obesity

Excess body weight increases the pressure on your heels, putting more stress on the skin and underlying tissues. Carrying extra weight can exacerbate dryness and make cracks more likely, as the body struggles to distribute pressure evenly across the feet. Maintaining a healthy body weight can reduce this strain and protect your heels.

Hot Water

Frequent exposure to hot water can strip your skin of natural oils, reducing its elasticity. When the skin loses flexibility, it becomes more prone to cracking, making even minor pressure or movement on the heels lead to breakage and discomfort. Using lukewarm water helps preserve skin elasticity and prevents damage.

Climate

Dry or cold climates can sap moisture from your skin, increasing the likelihood of breakage on your heels. Extreme temperatures and low humidity reduce the skin’s natural hydration, leaving it rough and prone to cracks. Regular moisturizing can help counteract these climate effects and maintain healthy skin.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, can weaken the skin on your heels, causing peeling, dryness, and cracks. These infections thrive in warm, moist environments and can spread if left untreated, making proper foot hygiene and antifungal treatment essential for preventing and healing cracked heels.

Treatments for Cracked Heels

Dry, cracked heels are unappealing and make it harder for you to walk around in sandals. Not only do they look bad, but they can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. The good news is that there are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

At-Home Treatments

Over-the-counter solutions can help, especially for those who need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture so it can stay on longer.
Apply Moisturizers – applying them both day and night will help alleviate dryness, which causes cracking.
Use Pumice Stones – these remove dead skin, and then you can massage cream onto your foot. This way, the cream will be absorbed.

Debridement

Professional treatment begins with debridement, a procedure that removes dead cells and thickened skin from your heels. This process helps cleanse the affected area, allowing the skin to rejuvenate and restore its natural softness. By stimulating collagen production, debridement supports healthier, more resilient skin and accelerates the healing of cracked heels.

Prescription-Strength Creams and Balms

Using prescription-strength creams and balms provides a gentle yet effective way to treat cracked heels. Many of these formulations offer anti-aging properties that help repair and smooth the skin, providing a refreshing experience with each application. Regular use can revitalize dry, rough heels, leaving them soft, nourished, and better protected against future damage.

Supportive Footwear and Orthotics

Wearing supportive footwear or orthotics can significantly improve foot health by reducing tension on the heels and minimizing discomfort. Properly designed shoes improve blood circulation, provide shaping and cushioning, and protect the skin from pressure and friction. Over time, this support helps prevent further cracks while promoting healing and overall comfort.

Strapping or Dressings

Strapping or specialized dressings help keep the skin on your heels protected and supported during the healing process. These treatments maintain moisture, reduce friction, and create a barrier against external irritants, allowing the cracked skin to repair more efficiently. Regular use can accelerate recovery and prevent the cracks from worsening.

Candidates for
Cracked Heel
Treatment

Cracked heels can affect people of all ages and lifestyles, but certain factors increase the likelihood of needing professional care. Addressing these issues early helps restore comfort and prevents the condition from worsening.

Here are the common groups of people who need treatment for cracked heels:

Individuals who spend long hours standing on hard surfaces
People wearing shoes without proper support or cushioning
Those with obesity, which places extra pressure on the heels
Individuals with dry skin due to climate or aging
People who frequently soak their feet in hot water
Those with fungal infections or other skin conditions on the feet
Patients with circulation problems or diabetes affecting foot health

Benefits of Cracked Heel Treatment

Professional care for cracked heels not only addresses the underlying causes but also helps restore overall foot health. With consistent treatment and proper maintenance, patients can enjoy lasting improvements that go beyond simple relief. Our treatment provides the following benefits:

Cost of Cracked Heel
Treatment in Michigan

The cost of cracked heels treatment in Novi, Southfield, Howell, and Livonia ranges from $75 to $600. The price depends on the type of care required and the severity of the condition. Basic treatments, such as prescription-strength creams or dressings, are typically on the lower end, while advanced procedures, like debridement or custom orthotics, may be higher. Factors such as the number of sessions, follow-up appointments, and additional recommended therapies can also influence the overall price.

During your consultation, our specialists will assess your condition, recommend the most effective treatment plan, and provide you with an exact price tailored to your needs.

Take the First Step
to Healthy Feet

Taking action early ensures your feet stay strong and comfortable. Our advanced procedures are designed to simplify and enhance the treatment process. From healthy nails to callus treatments, our services focus on keeping your skin and feet healthy while addressing both cosmetic and medical concerns. Every step of care at Foot HealthCare Associates is performed with precision to provide results with minimal discomfort, helping you move forward with confidence and comfort.

FAQs

Are cracked heels linked to vitamin deficiencies?

Yes, in some cases, vitamin deficiencies, especially low levels of vitamin E, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids, can contribute to dry skin and cracked heels. A balanced diet rich in these nutrients supports skin repair and helps prevent recurring issues.

Can untreated cracked heels lead to complications?

If left untreated, cracked heels may deepen and cause pain or bleeding. Severe cases can increase the risk of infections, especially in individuals with diabetes or circulation problems. Early treatment helps prevent these complications and promotes faster healing.

Can a hot stone massage be beneficial for cracked heels?

A hot stone massage is not a primary treatment for cracked heels, but it can offer supportive benefits. The warmth helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation, while techniques that use hot towels can temporarily soften the skin. Some spas also combine these sessions with sugar scrubs to smooth rough areas, which may complement medical care. While soothing, it should be seen as an add-on to professional cracked heel treatments rather than a replacement.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

To combat winter dryness, be sure to keep a loofah in the shower to exfoliate your skin, always moisturize to keep it smooth, and consider wearing gel socks to keep your heels soft. Unfortunately, cracked heels can become painful if left untreated. Foot HealthCare Associates can help you address this condition by offering professional treatments.

If you have any questions about how to avoid cracked heels, contact one of our podiatrists in Southfield or other areas, such as Novi, Howell, and Livonia. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked Heels Treatment in Novi, Southfield, Howell, and Livonia, MI

Causes of Cracked Heels