Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, develop when dry or thickened skin splits under pressure. While mild dryness may seem cosmetic, deeper cracks can become painful and may bleed or become infected if left untreated.
Our foot clinic provides professional cracked heel treatment in Toronto focused on relieving discomfort and supporting healthy skin healing.
Heel fissures occur when the skin along the heel becomes dry and thickened. As pressure is applied during walking or standing, the skin loses flexibility and may split.
Cracks may begin as small surface lines but can deepen over time, particularly in individuals who spend long hours standing or walking.
Common contributing factors include:
Dry skin or dehydration
Prolonged standing or walking
Open-back footwear or sandals
Callus buildup around the heel
Cold or dry environments
Diabetes or circulation concerns
When pressure continues, the skin may lose elasticity and begin to separate.
You may notice:
Dry, rough skin around the heel
Visible cracks or splitting
Pain when walking or standing
Thick yellow or hardened skin buildup
Bleeding or tenderness in deeper fissures
In more advanced cases, cracks may increase the risk of infection.
Treatment depends on the depth of the fissures and the condition of the surrounding skin.
Professional callus reduction involves safely removing thickened skin buildup that contributes to cracking. Reducing pressure allows the skin to heal more effectively.
Medical skin care and fissure management may include specialized products or dressings designed to support healing and protect deeper cracks.
Offloading and pressure management may be recommended to reduce stress on the heel during walking or prolonged standing.
Assessment of underlying contributing factors such as footwear, biomechanics, or medical conditions helps reduce recurrence.
Consider booking an assessment if:
Cracks are becoming painful
Skin begins bleeding or opening
Walking becomes uncomfortable
Moisturizers are no longer helping
You have diabetes or circulation concerns
Early treatment can help prevent worsening fissures and infection.
If dry or cracked heels are causing discomfort or affecting your daily activities, a professional assessment can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate care.
Book an appointment today for cracked heel treatment at our Toronto foot clinic.
