What is Cracked Heel?
Heel cracks are an uncomfortable condition that occurs as a deep crack or wound in the heel area of the foot. It can cause an unpleasant image. Heel cracks are usually caused by dry or rough skin and can lead to more serious problems over time. The treatment of heel cracks is not difficult, but it is still useful to know about options to prevent their occurrence. For this, regular moisturizing of the feet is an important step in preventing heel cracks.
What Causes Cracked Heel?
There are several stages in the development of a heel crack. First, a dry and hard skin formation is observed around the heel, this condition is called callus. Over time, as a result of walking and applying pressure, the fat pads under the heels expand and these calluses turn into small cracks. Cracked heel is a condition that everyone can experience, but it is more common especially in people with dry skin structure. It can also be seen in people who do not pay due attention to foot care, frequently use open shoes or are overweight. Some causes of cracked heel in general are:
Dry skin: It is a condition in which the natural moisturizing mechanism of the skin is insufficient. It can cause many irritating effects on the skin, especially the heel crack.
Atopic dermatitis: It is a chronic skin disease characterized by recurrent redness, itching or dryness of the skin. It usually starts in childhood but can also be seen in adulthood.
Psoriasis: It is a disease characterized by excessive rapid cell production of the skin. It usually develops due to genetic factors. It occurs with redness or swelling on the skin.
Juvenile plantar dermatosis: It is the dry, scaly or cracked appearance of the soles of the feet due to constant friction or pressure of the feet. It is usually seen in children and young adults.
Diabetes: Diabetes, which is associated with high blood sugar, can cause nerve damage later on. Damaged foot nerves can cause the feet to not sweat enough, thus losing moisture in the feet. You can find out more detailed information about diabetic foot from the article named what is diabetic foot.
