Foot Fissures

What are foot fissures?

Foot fissures, also known as cracked heels, are deep splits that form in the thickened skin of the heels and soles of the feet. They can range from a minor cosmetic concern to sharp pain that makes walking difficult or even impossible.

Common Causes

• Dry, dehydrated skin (cutaneous xerosis)
• Prolonged standing or excessive walking
• Wearing open-toed shoes, flip-flops, or poorly fitting footwear
• Overweight or obesity (increased pressure on the heels)
• Systemic conditions: diabetes, psoriasis, eczema, hypothyroidism
• Nutritional deficiencies (vitamins A, E, zinc)
• Skin aging (loss of elasticity)

Symptoms

• Thickened, callused, and rough skin on the heels
• Superficial or deep cracks, sometimes bleeding
• Pain when walking or standing
• Itching or burning sensations
• Risk of infection if fissures are left untreated

Podiatric Treatment

Your podiatrist at Clinique Claire Fontaine performs a thorough foot assessment and proceeds with:

• Professional debridement of calluses and dead skin using sterile specialized instruments
• Targeted hydration with high-concentration emollient agents
• Application of a dressing or therapeutic bandage if necessary
• Personalized advice on footwear selection, home care routines, and relapse prevention

Prevention

To prevent fissures from returning, it is recommended to moisturize your feet daily, wear closed and well-fitting shoes, avoid long periods of standing on hard surfaces, and schedule regular visits with your podiatrist for preventive follow-up.