Finding The Cause And Cure Of Dry & Cracked Heels
In the absence of foot problems, most people don't think about their feet too often
. However, when troubles arise with their toes, ankles, heels or the balls of their feet, nothing is more challenging and difficult to overcome due to our dependence on them for so many tasks.
Because they are relied on daily for important functions such as basic mobility, standing and balance, a foot problem can become quite debilitating. We need our right and left foot in top condition to fully function, work and play.
Dry and cracked heels can have many different symptoms. They can itch, flake, peel, crack and even bleed. They are not just aesthetically unpleasing, they are one of many potential foot problems that can take a more serious toll if left untreated over time.
The deeper the cracks become, the more one increases the risk of developing chronic pain or even infection. Yet treatment can be simple for the majority of people who have extremely dry and cracking heels and it doesn't require a trip to a podiatrist either.
The first step in treating dry and cracked heels is to determine the source of the problem and eliminate it. Many people treat their dry feet but get discouraged that "nothing seems to work." However, they overlooked the first crucial step of treating their feet - finding out why their dry feet are occurring in the first place. For some people, their foot problems may have just one simple cause. For others, it can be a multitude of conditions.
Here are some of the reasons why people develop dry, cracked heel foot problems:
- Walking barefoot or wearing sandals that are not enclosed: Walking with no shoes causes excess wear to the heels, causing calluses to form. Sandals with exposed heels cause the fatty tissue on the heel to spread outward, making it more vulnerable and fragile to the elements.
- Vitamin deficiencies: People who not only have dry heels but also dry, flaky skin on their face, elbows and other parts of their skin could be lacking essential vitamins.
- Simple daily wear and tear: Some individuals have jobs or very active lifestyles where they are standing or putting a lot of wear on their feet each day.
- Feet are often in damp environment or in water: One might think water keeps feet moist, but it actually interferes with the natural oil in the skin. Those who continually have moist feet are at greater risk for dry foot problems.
- Age and weight: Carrying extra pounds takes a toll on the feet, causing fatty tissue to spread and weakening the protection of the heel. Aging also makes skin less elastic. Though one cannot reverse his or her age, if a person is older then more aggressive, daily care is necessary to combat the aging process.
Once the causes have been determined, it is time to take action. Start reversing dry heel foot problems by keeping feet clean and dry at all times. Exfoliate and scrub regularly, and indulge in a weekly foot soak. When getting out of the shower or bath, always apply a heel moisturizer afterward. For overnight care, put olive oil or vegetable oil on the heels and then place a sock on for sleeping.
For those with more unique, specific causes of dry, cracked heels, other treatments can offer help. Try to avoid open heel sandals or walking barefoot. If feet are exposed to excessive daily wear, investing in good shoes is a must, along with daily pampering of heels and toes. Also, for those who tend to have dry skin in many areas on the body, increasing Vitamin B, E, Calcium, Iron and Zinc can help.
Determing the cause of foot problems and following these treatments will give your feet the care they deserve. Though rare, at times there can be other conditions at play such as thyroid problems, diabetes or other foot diseases and disorders. If all usual causes have been eliminated and treatments have been regulary administered, yet there is no sign of improvement, it is important to rule out any underlying conditions.
For most people, foot problems can be avoided by just some extra pampering and tending to their feet each day. We put a lot of miles on each foot daily so it is natural to expect wear and tear to take its toll over time. Moisturizing, good hygeine and good shoes will help keep your feet healthy and able to get you where you need to go!
by: Oliver Johnson
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