Think of the feet as the center of the body; Your feet are the part of your body that makes you move and run. So if you're like most people and don't think your feet need consistent care, think again. Cracked heels are one of the most common foot problems that can arise if you don't pay close attention to your feet. But do not despair, the skin of the feet as smooth as a baby's skin can be obtained just by reading one article. Read on to learn more about how to deal with annoying cracked heels.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Understanding Cause
Step 1. Pay attention to skin elasticity
The skin around the heel is prone to dryness which can be made worse by improper care. If the skin is too dry, the skin loses its elasticity. This can eventually lead to cracked heels and other ailments.
Dry peeling skin can occur as a result of climate, such as a very dry dry season and/or a cold rainy season
Step 2. Pay attention to the problem of being overweight
Being overweight or pregnant can lead to severe vessels. An increase in weight increases the pressure on the feet, especially the heels, and this often results in a vessel or more.
Note that being overweight causes the heel to expand, which usually causes the skin to crack or separate through the vessel
Step 3. Avoid certain types of shoes to prevent pain and foot problems
Always wearing certain types of footwear or not wearing footwear at all can dry out the skin around the heels..
- Sandals, shoes with open backs or laces, are often the culprit.
- High-heeled shoes can also cause discomfort and dry skin on the heels.
Step 4. Try to avoid standing at work or home for long periods of time
This can cause problems with heels and feet in general..
Hard floors can cause foot problems, so try wearing orthopedic shoes
Step 5. Get to know your genes
Genetic conditions have a considerable impact on the skin, including the skin on the feet. Dry skin and the wrong footwear doesn't always cause cracked heels for everyone. But it may happen fairly quickly if you are genetically susceptible..
Step 6. Pay attention to general health
For example, diabetes can reduce moisture in the body, causing an overall dry skin condition.
Thyroid problems have also been shown to cause cracked heels
Part 2 of 3: Recognizing Symptoms
Step 1. Look for dry skin conditions on and around the heels
The skin will look dry (like skin all over the body), but it may also show signs of yellow and/or tan discoloration. Dryness and different skin tones will be very clearly visible on the inside of the heel edge..
The heel skin is moderate to very rough to the touch and even feels sharp. In other words, your skin has lost so much moisture that it can take away the smooth texture of the skin
Step 2. Watch for pain or discomfort in the foot
The feet and especially the heels, may be mild to very painful when standing, walking, or running. The pain usually decreases when the weight of the body is not resting on the feet.
Step 3. Notice the ship formed on the heel
In some cases, you will see a vessel forming on the heel brim. Vessels are basically an accumulation of dry skin that forms a thickening of the skin.
Step 4. Watch for bleeding or bleeding around the heel
In more severe cases, you may notice bloody discharge around the heel or sock area. Check for signs of dry, cracked skin on the heels..
If you have diabetes or thyroid disease, consult your doctor immediately
Step 5. Be sure to check your feet daily for any changes in skin and nail color
Part 3 of 3: Handling Conditions
Step 1. Find an oil-based moisturizer and/or heel balm and apply it daily
Ideally, you should apply moisture to your feet twice a day, in the morning and before bed..
- Using a cream or balm in the morning is very important. Remember, you need to improve your skin's elasticity before you start using your feet so that existing dry skin doesn't get worse (and potentially prevents new dry skin from forming).
- Apply foot balm before bed and wear soft socks to lock in moisture. You can also just apply the balm or cream alone; but wearing socks will help add moisture.
- Don't like hands getting greasy? Do not worry. Currently there are various products that are tailored to various needs and tastes. Try gel or cream in stick form to keep your hands from sticking.
Step 2. Use a pumice stone or toenail file in your daily shower
The pumice stone works to remove dry skin, so the heel is much softer. Note that a pumice stone or toenail file is excellent for treating minor dry skin problems.
- Soaking your feet in warm water for 10 minutes will soften the skin, making the use of pumice stones more effective.
- Try using a toenail file on both dry and wet feet. This will indicate the conditions that react most quickly to this treatment.
- Follow these two treatments with the use of a moisturizer.
Step 3. Apply an antiseptic to avoid skin infection if the skin is cracked or the skin starts to bleed
Bandage the area and change it at least twice a day until the bleeding stops completely.
Always wash your hands before touching open wounds or cracked skin
Step 4. Use a heel cup to better distribute your weight on your heels
The heel cup will prevent the fat pad on the heel from expanding sideways. It can be a very effective preventive and curative measure if used daily.
Step 5. Try to always wear closed shoes and good quality socks
Remember, shoes that open in the front, shoes that open in the back, and shoes with laces can cause heel problems. Always wear good quality socks and shoes can improve the condition of the skin..
- Sandals are great at the pool and in the summer, but don't do this all year round.
- Women should limit the use of high heels more than 7 cm.
Step 6. Try to lose weight if you are not in a healthy range
Being overweight has many drawbacks and overloading the legs is one of them. Reducing pressure on the heel has a positive effect on the surrounding skin.
Step 7. Visit a podiatrist (foot specialist)
If your condition does not show any signs of progressing with the aforementioned treatments, it may be time to visit a healthcare professional. The expert will recommend specific treatment according to your condition.
Warning
- Do not use scissors to treat cracked heels.
- Always consult a doctor if you are unsure about your condition.
- Drink lots of water so that the body and legs that expand are still getting fluid intake.
- If you have diabetes and/or thyroid problems, consult your doctor before trying any of the treatments above.
