What are Dry Cracked Heels?
Dry cracked heels, or heel fissures, are closely related to dry skin (anhidrosis). They occur when dry, hard skin breaks open, causing painful cracks that may bleed. Cracks appear at areas of high pressure, most commonly the heel.
Conditions such as diabetes, fungal infection, poor circulation, rheumatoid arthritis, or dermatological conditions may exacerbate the fissures. If left untreated, the fissures may run deeper into the skin or become infected. This is especially dangerous for diabetics and those with compromised immune systems.
