Heels with large, deep cracks in them is a very common occurrence, particularly in hot weather when open-heeled shoes, sandals and ‘flip-flops’ are worn routinely. However, although they may look bad, most cracks are actually minor and can be easily managed by using the Footlogix Cracked Heel formula for feet with cracks or fissures that are deep, unsightly, uncomfortable and often painful.

Cracked heels are unsightly, uncomfortable and may even be painful. Also referred to as heel fissures, they result from dry skin accompanied by thickened skin and unsightly calluses. Cracked skin may also appear on the ball of your foot. For these extreme conditions, you need an intense hydrating and softening, lightweight formula that adds moisture to the skin and heals effectively.

The following are some factors and conditions that can contribute to the development of deep cracks and fissures on the heel and, less frequently, the ball of the foot, particularly under the big toe.

GAIT PATTERN

Normal walking patterns distribute weight evenly across the foot. However, some people have a very heavy heel strike, or a tendency to pronate. This can lead to calluses around the rim of the heel and more predominately, around the lateral (outside) edge of the heel. Calluses are thickened areas of skin that are caused by repetitive friction and or pressure on the skin. The callus acts as a protective barrier between the skin and the external source of the force or friction. 

EXCESSIVE WEIGHT GAIN AND OBESITY

Along with other factors such as footwear and gait pattern, people who gain excessive weight, or who are obese, are more prone to developing deep cracks and fissures on callused heels.

PROLONGED STANDING

As above, prolonged standing can precipitate cracks and fissures on callused heels. Work boots can make them even worse.

ATOPIC DERMATITIS WITH ECZEMA

These are chronic immune-related conditions which are often familial. The skin is rough, itchy, flaky and dry. One aspect is a defect in the functioning of the skin barrier that makes the skin more susceptible to irritation by soap and other contact irritants increasing the symptoms. Calluses are the body’s natural protection. Of greatest interest to us is Palmo-plantar eczema which affects the soles of the feet and palms of the hands, frequently leading to thick calluses and cracking. This condition is more common in young adults.

PSORIASIS

Psoriasis, an auto-immune condition, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by clearly defined, red and scaly plaques of thickened skin. Of greatest interest to us is Palmo-plantar Psoriasis which affects the soles of the feet and palms of the hands, frequently leading to thick calluses and painful cracking. This is more frequent in children than in adults

DIABETES

Circulatory and nerve issues associated with Diabetes lead to very dry skin, particularly on the feet, and a high incidence of cracked skin on the heels. Open cracks can lead to infection and even amputation making management especially important.

HYPOTHYROIDISM

One effect of an under-active thyroid gland is extremely dry skin caused by a disruption in sweat production. This particularly affects the feet and can result in cracks and fissures on callused heels.

SJÖGREN’S SYNDROME – also known as “Dry Skin Autoimmune Disease”

Although this condition usually affect the eyes, mouth and throat, it can also affect the stratum corneum on other parts of the body, one of which is the heels, leaving them callused and prone to cracking.

FOOTLOGIX SOLUTION

Footlogix Cracked Heel Formula with Dermal Infusion Technology^® is proven to moisturise and effectively eliminate deeply cracked skin in extremely callused heels, without leaving a greasy film. Along with urea, it contains Evening Primrose oil which improves the skin structure. The urea hydrates and locks moisture into the skin. 

If there is any evidence of infection or continual pain in the fissures, make an appointment with your doctor.

Footlogix Cracked Heels Treatment & Solution

The Footlogix Cracked Heel Formula is recommended for:

• Anyone who has unsightly, painful, cracked heels or uncomfortable callused skin

• Anyone who suffers from very dry feet

• Frequent sandal wearers

• Those who wear heavy work boots daily

• People who walk barefoot 

• People with Diabetes who have skin prone to excessive calluses and dryness