Cracked heels, also referred to as heel fissures, are a common foot condition, which can cause discomfort or even pain. They result from dry skin and are accompanied by thickened skin, plus sometimes yellow or brown calluses around the heel edge.
Often, the only problem with cracked heels is their appearance. However, in some cases, the condition can be severe if the cracks become infected.
According to the National Foot Health Assessment 2012, 20 percent of adults in the United States have experienced cracked skin on their feet. Women were 50 percent more likely to report the condition than men.
If the cracks in the heels are deep, they can be painful, hurting when a person stands up, and they may sometimes bleed.
People should see a doctor if they experience soreness, redness, swelling, or severe pain in any area of the foot for more than a few days.
In this article, we outline some steps that can be taken at home to treat and prevent heel cracks in minor cases of the condition.