Cracked heels are caused when the skin thickens and callus forms around the heels. When weightbearing the fat pad under the heel expands and this tension then causes the thickened skin to crack and break. It is important that these cracks are managed as they can become painful and are also a portal of entry for possible infection.
A podiatrist is able to establish both a short term and long-term management plan to help reduce the cracking and prevent it from reoccurring in the future. Routine general skin and nail care can reduce the thickened skin and cracks. Furthermore, a podiatrist will perform a biomechanical examination and provide recommendation and padding to help disperse pressure through the foot and minimise callus build up.
My Rehab Team has mobile and in clinic podiatry service that can help you. Contact us on 1300465734 or info@myrehabteam.com.au for more information or feel free to peruse our wait time and service region pages (both have links to our referral forms).