What Causes Cracked Heels—And How to Fix Them

Are Your Heels Dry, Hard, or Splitting?

If your heels are feeling rough, dry, or starting to crack—you’re not alone. Cracked heels (also known as heel fissures) are incredibly common, especially as we head into colder weather or spend more time on our feet.

But while they may seem like just a cosmetic issue, they can lead to pain, infection, and even bleeding if left untreated.

The good news? Most cracked heels are easy to treat—and even easier to prevent.

What Causes Cracked Heels?

Cracked heels happen when the skin on the bottom of your feet becomes too dry or thick. When you walk or stand, your heels naturally expand. If the skin is too dry or hard, it can't stretch properly—and instead, it splits.

Here are the most common causes:

• Dry Skin – Especially in winter or if you're not moisturising regularly

• Standing for Long Periods – Especially on hard floors

• Wearing Open-Backed Shoes – Like sandals or flip-flops

• Walking Barefoot – This can dry the skin out over time

• Excess Weight – More pressure on the heels can lead to deeper cracks

• Ageing Skin – Skin becomes thinner and less elastic with age

• Medical Conditions – Diabetes, eczema, and thyroid problems can all make the skin more prone to drying out

Are Cracked Heels Dangerous?

In many cases, cracked heels are more annoying than dangerous. But if the cracks go deep enough, they can cause:

• Bleeding

• Pain when walking

• Infection (especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation)

That’s why it’s important to treat them early, before things get worse.

How to Treat Cracked Heels at Home

Here are some simple steps you can take right away:

1. Soak Your Feet
   Soak your feet in warm (not hot) water for 10–15 minutes to soften the skin.

2. Gently Exfoliate
   Use a pumice stone or foot file to remove thick, dead skin—but don’t overdo it.

3. Moisturise Daily
   Apply a thick foot cream or heel balm, especially one with urea, lanolin, or shea butter. Do this at night and pop on cotton socks to lock in moisture.

4. Avoid Barefoot Walking
   Even indoors, wear socks or soft slippers to protect your heels.

5. Check Your Shoes
   Choose shoes with closed backs and cushioned soles. Open-backed sandals can make things worse.

When to See a Podiatrist

If your heels are:

• Bleeding

• Infected or painful

• Not improving with home care

• Affected by diabetes or circulation issues

It’s time to get professional help.

At Coventry Foot Doctor, we treat cracked heels with:

• Specialist Debridement – We gently remove hard skin without pain or damage

• Targeted Heel Balms – Medical-grade moisturisers for deep hydration

• Footwear Advice & Insoles – To support your feet and reduce pressure

• Skin Care Plans – Tailored to your foot type, lifestyle, and medical needs

Let’s Get You Back on Smooth Ground

Cracked heels can be uncomfortable—but they’re also highly treatable. Don’t wait until they split deeper or become infected. Whether you need a quick tidy-up or a full heel care plan, we’re here to help.

Book Your Appointment Today

Ready for smooth, pain-free feet?
Contact us at Coventry Foot Doctor and let’s get those heels feeling healthy again.