Heel Fissures, Heel Callus

Fissuring or cracking of the skin of the heels can be a painful and annoying condition. The fissures can become deep enough to cause bleeding. Thick callusing and fissuring of the skin is a result of excessive and abnormal friction on the heel while walking. Frequently this occurs in people who wear open-backed sandals or shoes, as these shoes allow more slippage around the heel while walking. The skin thickens as a result of the friction. Skin lotions can help with reducing the dryness associated with the condition. Avoiding open-backed shoes is also helpful. There is a very good prescription medication for reducing the callused area called Whitfields Ointment. This is an old time remedy that many pharmacies no longer carry. With a prescription, some pharmacists will make up the medication for you. The medication contains mild acid compounds that reduce the thick callus. Care should be used with this medication and it should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.