The wintertime is a dry season that often leads to rough and scaly skin on the feet. Having cracked heels is a common condition that occurs more frequently during these colder months. To ease winter cracked heels, moisturize the affected area at least twice a day with a gentle moisturizer; to make moisturizing more effective, gently scrub the area before moisturizing. Wearing cotton socks allows good air circulation and helps the feet retain moisture. Striking a balance between feet that are too dry and feet that are too moist can be tricky. Follow best practices by moisturizing and also letting the feet breathe.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. LeKeisha George from Forest Hills Podiatric Medical Care. Dr. George can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are unappealing, and make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Not only may they look bad, but they can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How do you get them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief, or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – wearing socks with medicated creams, helps lock in moisture so it can stay on longer.
Moisturizers – applying it both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – these remove dead skin, and then you can massage cream onto your foot. This way the cream will be absorbed. The skin needs to be exfoliated; therefore the outer layer dead skin needs removal.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy, with a well-balanced diet, will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to what kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements will also help with skin tissue.
Most importantly seek a health professional for foot care if something is wrong or doesn’t seem to be working. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Forest Hills, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.