What should you know about footy cracked heels?

Heel fissures form when the outer skin loses moisture and becomes less flexible. Standing for long periods, open-backed shoes and repeated pressure can widen the dry area. Athlete's Foot may also affect the feet and cause scaling or irritation, especially between the toes. Look for redness, warmth, swelling, discharge or increasing tenderness around a fissure.

A shallow split may be uncomfortable but manageable at home. Deep cracks can bleed when you walk and allow germs through the skin barrier. People with diabetes, poor circulation, reduced sensation or a weakened immune system should arrange medical advice early.

Wash with lukewarm water, pat dry carefully and apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp. A clinician or pharmacist can advise whether an emollient therapy product is suitable. Wear supportive, closed shoes and clean socks; avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces.

Do not cut the thick skin with a blade or pull at a split. Avoid harsh scrubs and strong acids on open skin. If the crack is painful, a protective dressing can reduce rubbing, but change it as directed and keep the area clean.

Arrange prompt assessment for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, red streaks, severe pain or difficulty walking. Seek advice sooner if a crack is deep, repeatedly bleeding, not improving with regular moisturising, or accompanied by widespread scaling. A clinician can check for infection, eczema, psoriasis or fungal disease and choose treatment safely.

Could a fungal infection or another skin condition be contributing? Which moisturiser and dressing fit the depth of the fissure? Should my footwear, circulation, blood sugar or sensation be checked? What changes would mean I need an urgent review?