Worried about cracked heels? So know the best ways to get rid of it.

With the onset of winter, the problem of cracked heels or hardened skin becomes quite common. It is a very common foot problem and affects about 20 out of every 100 people. Both children and adults suffer from it, but the problem is more common in women than in men.

Reasons

The first sign of cracked heels is dry and thick skin. There are many reasons for this problem such as standing for long hours, walking with bare feet or wearing sandals, showering with hot water for too long, using harsh soaps, wearing poorly fitting shoes, drinking less water, or the weather.  Due to dry skin etc. Many times medical problems are also the cause, among which high blood sugar or blood circulation disorders are notable. It is also more likely in obese people, old age, and during pregnancy. The good thing is that it is very easy to avoid it or get rid of it with simple methods.

Use of the balm

Heel balm is a readily available ointment and is often effective in relieving the problem of cracked heels. The balm restores moisture to the heels while softening the skin.

Try soaking your feet

The skin around the cracked heels often becomes thick and dry, but re-moisturizing the feet relieves the problem. For this purpose, soak your feet in warm soapy water for 20 minutes. Then gently remove the hard and thick skin with a foot scrubbing tool. Then apply a balm on the affected area or apply petroleum jelly to the foot and wear socks, which restores moisture.

Honey

Honey can also be effective for this heel problem. Honey is antiseptic and research reports have shown that honey helps in wound healing. After soaking the feet, rubbing the feet with honey can help relieve this problem.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil can also be helpful in this regard. Coconut oil can be used after soaking the feet. Coconut oil protects the affected area from swelling and germs.

Use closed shoes

Sandals, or shoes that are open at the back, can also cause or worsen cracked heels, so wearing closed shoes can help prevent this.

Make it a habit to drink more water

Many times cracked heels are also caused by dehydration, especially in winter people drink less water, which increases the risk of this problem. So drinking an adequate amount of water daily can help to prevent or get rid of this problem.

Other methods

Several methods can be used to overcome this problem. These methods are not scientifically proven but they help in keeping the feet moist and soft. One of these methods is soaking the feet in vinegar for some time or applying grated banana on the affected area can also restore moisture to the feet.

Note: This article is based on details published in medical journals, readers must consult their physician in this regard.