Experts, drawing attention to the common problem of heel cracks, warn that neglected cracks can lead to serious health problems.
Lecturer Muharrem Tosun from the Podology Program stated that while heel cracks are aesthetically bothersome, they can subsequently become an entry point for bacteria and other microorganisms into the body. “Thus, they can cause infections in the foot and lead to serious health problems. In deep heel cracks, if necessary hygiene rules are not observed, it is possible for microorganisms to enter the body and cause infection. The risk of infection also brings along serious health problems such as foot ulcers or gangrene in diabetics,” he warned.
Lecturer Muharrem Tosun from Üsküdar Üniversitesi Health Services Vocational School Podology Program provided important information on heel cracks and their treatment.
Incorrect Shoe Use Causes Heel Cracks
Podologist Tosun stated that the drying and hardening of the skin on our heels and the formation of deep cracks over time lead to heel cracks. “Heel cracks can occur for many reasons. These include being overweight, incorrect use of shoes and slippers, dry skin, foot posture problems, and certain skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis.” he said.
Who is More Prone to Heel Cracks?
Lecturer Muharrem Tosun stated that heel cracks can be seen in everyone, “However, as people age, the skin loses its elasticity and moisture retention, so it is more common in those over middle age. We also encounter heel cracks more frequently in occupational groups that require standing for long periods. Additionally, it can often be seen in diabetic individuals due to dry skin.” he said.
Walking barefoot on hard surfaces also causes heel cracks
Podologist Tosun noted that especially in winter months, as humidity decreases, the skin dries out more and the formation of heel cracks increases. “Also, wearing hard-soled shoes and pressing on the heel part of house slippers that are too small are among the factors that increase the formation of heel cracks. Walking barefoot on hard surfaces is another factor that causes heel cracks.” he stated.
Can Lead to Infection
Tosun stated that while heel cracks are aesthetically bothersome, they can subsequently become an entry point for bacteria and other microorganisms into the body. “Thus, they can cause infections in the foot and lead to serious health problems. In deep heel cracks, if necessary hygiene rules are not observed, it is possible for microorganisms to enter the body and cause infection. One should not walk barefoot in dirty environments.” he warned.
Diabetics, Beware of Serious Health Problems Like Foot Ulcers or Gangrene!
Tosun explained that due to circulatory problems in diabetic patients, there is more skin dryness, which leads to a higher incidence of heel cracks in diabetics. “The potential risk of infection resulting from heel cracks also brings along serious health problems such as foot ulcers or gangrene in diabetics. Therefore, diabetic individuals need to take this situation very seriously.” he said.
What Does Podology Do in the Treatment of Heel Cracks?
Lecturer Muharrem Tosun from the Podology Program stated that podologists play an important role in eliminating heel cracks through medical foot care. “Podologists can educate individuals on correct shoe and slipper selection and detect potential foot posture disorders by performing pressure analysis. They help eliminate potential risks through multidisciplinary work with Orthopedics and Dermatology departments.” he said.
Feet Should Be Dried Very Well
Podologist Muharrem Tosun also stated that to prevent heel cracks, feet should be moisturized daily, care should be taken in shoe selection, and orthopedic insoles should be preferred. “Feet should be washed daily with warm water. Afterwards, we recommend drying the entire foot very well, especially between the toes. Socks should be changed daily; synthetic and polyester socks should be avoided, and cotton and bamboo socks should be preferred. Care should be taken not to walk barefoot in common areas such as gyms, pools, and saunas,” he concluded.