Cracked heels can make for a miserable summer for many, but why do they make an appearance in the summer months?

The skin on the soles of our feet has a much harder job than anywhere else on our body. Skin has to allow perspiration, be waterproof, house nerve endings, protect deeper structures. The skin on our feet has to do this whilst taking our full body weight for thousands of steps each day. Skin needs to be supple so that it may stretch and deform according to the demands placed on it, and any changes in hydration of the skin can lead to a buildup of callus if there is pressure or friction. Summer time and hotter weather can reduce the hydration, due to increased perspiration.

Its always the shoes, or sandals and flip flops in this case. Backless shoes allow the heels to move against the sole of the footwear more, increasing friction and pressure. This added to reduced hydration and callus can cause splits, or fissures in the skin. These can be very painful, and also a source of embarrassment for many.

If you have cracked a heels a podiatrist can have them back in top condition in no time at all. Reducing the buildup and facilitating the healing of any wounds. Once the skin is in good condition again its important to look at prevention of any future occurrences.

Try wherever possible to have footwear that holds onto the back of the foot if you are walking any distance or standing for prolonged periods, it will stop the heel friction. Use a quality moisturiser specifically designed for feet on a daily basis, little and often. (We are big fans of CCS foot cream) Use a foot file to reduce any build up of hard skin on a regular basis.

And finally, visit your podiatrist if you have any concerns about cracked heels, don’t suffer in silence.