Cracked Heels Melbourne
What are cracked heels?
Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common foot problem resulting in dry and cracked skin around the heels. Quite often there will also be thick callus surrounding the heels. Cracked heels or heel fissures are often painful and if deep can be a source of infection so podiatry treatment is essential. This is especially important for those patients more prone to infections such as diabetics.
Do you suffer from cracked heels or heel fissures?
Signs & symptoms of cracked heels (heel fissures)
The following signs or symptoms can indicate heel fissures on the foot:
- A thick or rough area of skin (callus) around the margins of the heels with cracks
- Dry skin around the heel with small cracks or splitting
- Deep painful cracks around the margins of the heel
- Bleeding around the heels
- Redness, swelling or signs of infection around the heel
Causes of cracked heels (heel fissures)
There are numerous causes of heel fissures or cracked heels on the feet. Some common causes include hormonal changes, infection, medication or dry skin. Biomechanical factors can also lead to cracked heels and this includes excess weight or excess forces on the heel pad. Poor foot mechanics can cause continual flattening of the heel pad structure leading to callus formation and fissures.
Cracked heels (heel fissures) diagnosis
Cracked heels or heel fissures are easily diagnosed by our podiatrists at our Melbourne foot clinic, who are experts in identifying skin conditions of the foot without the need for further tests.
Podiatry treatment for cracked heels or heel fissures
Our Melbourne podiatrists are experts in the treatment of cracked heels or heel fissures. Podiatry treatment involves careful reduction of callus and fissures around the heel using a scalpel. Any deep fissures or cracks are closed up with the use of antiseptic and a dressing or strapping tape. This podiatry treatment is painless and produces immediate results making your heels feel soft and smooth once again.
NB. You should only trust podiatrists using a scalpel on your feet.
Our podiatrists regularly perform cracked heel reduction as part of a general foot care treatment (medical pedicure). This involves nail care, removal of corns, callus and heel fissures followed by application of a heel balm, making your heels feel soft and smooth again. All instruments used are fully sterilised to Australian health standards.
Our podiatrists can also advise you on the best skin products for your heels to help prevent dry skin and cracking. Orthotics and footwear advice can also be of assistance if cracked heels are due to biomechanical causes.
Has a podiatrist checked your feet for cracked heels?
At our Melbourne foot clinic our podiatrists are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. This includes cracked heel diagnosis and heel fissure treatment.
So if you are suffering from painful cracked heels or unsightly heel fissures book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today!