What to do when a heel is cracked open

An open fissure means the dry, thick heel skin has split far enough to expose tender tissue. Standing and walking can pull the edges apart, causing soreness or bleeding. The surrounding skin may remain rough and dry even as the central split begins to close.

An open crack is not automatically an infection. Increasing redness, heat, swelling, pus, or worsening pain are more concerning. Itch and peeling elsewhere on the foot can suggest Athlete's Foot, which may keep the skin vulnerable.

Rinse gently with clean lukewarm water, pat dry, and cover the fissure with a clean dressing if it rubs against footwear. Apply emollient to intact skin around the crack, keeping strong exfoliating products out of the open area unless prescribed. Change the dressing if it becomes wet or dirty. Wear supportive shoes and socks, avoid barefoot walking, and do not pull at the split or remove thick skin with a blade. A clinician or pharmacist can guide suitable emollient therapy and dressings.

Seek prompt medical advice for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, discharge, fever, severe pain, or difficulty walking. Arrange assessment if bleeding continues, the fissure keeps reopening, or it is not beginning to settle with protection. If you have diabetes, poor circulation, numbness, or reduced immunity, contact a clinician early rather than managing an open crack without guidance.

Ask whether the fissure needs a specific dressing, whether infection or Athlete's Foot is present, and how to moisturise safely while the opening heals.