If your heels are splitting open and no lotion seems to help, you’re not alone. Heel fissures can be painful, frustrating, and even alarming—but there are solutions. Here’s what you need to know about understanding, treating, and preventing this common yet stubborn condition.

1. Understanding Heel Fissures

Heel fissures occur when the skin on your heels becomes so dry and thick that it splits open. This condition is often worsened by the pressure of standing or walking, which can cause the skin to crack further.

The skin on your heels is naturally thicker than on other parts of your body. When it loses elasticity and moisture, it becomes prone to splitting. In severe cases, heel fissures can become deep and painful, potentially leading to bleeding and infection.

It’s important to address the underlying causes of heel fissures to prevent them from worsening and to promote healing.

2. Common Causes of Cracked Heels

Several factors can contribute to the development of cracked heels:....