Cracked Heels Got You Down? Let’s Talk Heel Fissures

Valley Stream Podiatry | Valley Stream, NY

You wake up, slide your feet into your slippers, and ouch — that sharp sting on your heel isn’t just dry skin. You may be dealing with heel fissures, also known as cracked heels — a surprisingly common foot issue that’s often overlooked until it becomes painful.

At Valley Stream Podiatry, we treat heel fissures often — especially during the colder months and summer sandal season — and we’re here to help you understand what causes them, how to treat them, and how to prevent them from making a comeback.

What Are Heel Fissures?

Heel fissures are deep cracks or splits in the skin around your heel. While they can start as a cosmetic concern, they can quickly become painful and even dangerous if left untreated. In more severe cases, they can bleed, become infected, and make walking uncomfortable.

What Causes Cracked Heels?

Heel fissures happen when the skin on the heel becomes dry, thickened, or callused, and then splits under pressure. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Dry skin (xerosis) — especially in winter or hot, dry climates

  • Open-heel footwear like sandals or flip-flops

  • Standing for long periods, especially on hard surfaces

  • Obesity, which adds more pressure to the heels

  • Medical conditions like diabetes, eczema, psoriasis, or hypothyroidism

  • Improper foot care or lack of moisturization

Signs You Should See a Podiatrist

Mild heel cracks might be managed at home, but if you notice any of the following, it’s time to make an appointment with Valley Stream Podiatry:

  • Pain while walking or standing

  • Deep cracks that bleed or ooze

  • Redness or signs of infection

  • You have diabetes or circulatory issues

  • At-home remedies aren’t helping

Our Podiatry team at Valley Stream Podiatry specializes in treating heel fissures safely, effectively, and compassionately— because let’s face it, feet take a beating.

How We Treat Heel Fissures

Treatment depends on the severity, but may include:

  • Debriding thick callused skin safely in-office

  • Prescription-strength emollients or keratolytic creams

  • Protective dressings to promote healing

  • Custom orthotics if foot mechanics are contributing

  • Guidance on foot hygiene and at-home care

Prevention Starts With Daily Care

To keep cracked heels from coming back:

  • Moisturize your feet daily (look for urea or lactic acid-based creams)

  • Avoid walking barefoot on hard floors

  • Wear closed-back, cushioned shoes

  • Stay hydrated

  • Exfoliate gently — but never overdo it

Heel Pain Isn’t Normal. Let’s Fix It.

At Valley Stream Podiatry, located right here in Valley Stream, NY, we believe every step should feel comfortable. With access to cutting edge technologies, our experienced Podiatrists - Dr. Andrew Shapiro, Dr. Michael Barkin and Dr. Sajni Shah can help you manage all of your foot and ankle conditions. If you’re tired of painful heel cracks, we’re just a call away.

skin conditions, Heel PainValley Stream PodiatryValley Stream Podiatryheel fissures