What treatment is recommended for foot cracks?

Treatment for Foot Cracks

For foot cracks, use moisturizing creams or emollients twice daily, focusing on lubricating oils or creams specifically designed for dry skin, but avoid applying between the toes. 1, 2, 3

Understanding Foot Cracks

Foot cracks (fissures) typically occur when skin becomes excessively dry (xerosis) and loses its elastic properties. These cracks can be painful and may serve as potential entry points for infection, particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes or other conditions affecting foot health.

First-Line Treatment

Moisturizing Protocol

• Apply lubricating oils or creams twice daily to affected areas 1
• Focus application on dry areas but avoid placing between toes 1
• Continue application until skin regains normal hydration and elasticity
• Consider specialized foot care creams which have shown superior hydrating effects compared to standard moisturizers 3

Proper Foot Care Practices

• Thoroughly dry feet after bathing, especially between toes 1
• Change socks daily 1
• Wear properly fitted, ventilated shoes 1
• Avoid barefoot walking both indoors and outdoors 1

For Persistent or Severe Cracks

Advanced Treatment Options

• For hyperkeratotic (thickened) skin with cracks:
  • Consider products containing urea which can help soften thickened skin 4
  • Professional debridement of calluses may be necessary if cracks are associated with callus formation 1, 2

When to Suspect Fungal Infection

If cracks are accompanied by:

• Scaling or peeling skin
• Itching, burning sensation
• Redness between toes or on soles

Consider antifungal treatment:

• For athlete's foot between toes: Apply terbinafine 1% cream twice daily for 1 week 5
• For athlete's foot on bottom/sides of foot: Apply terbinafine 1% cream twice daily for 2 weeks 5

Special Considerations

For Diabetic Patients

Foot cracks in diabetic patients require special attention due to increased risk of complications:

• Inspect feet daily for any changes or new cracks 1
• Seek prompt medical attention for any skin breakdown 1
• Follow regular foot care with a specialist based on risk stratification 1

Prevention Strategies

• Regular use of moisturizers before cracks develop
• Daily foot inspection
• Proper footwear selection
• Avoid chemical agents or plasters to remove corns/calluses 1
• Use clean, seamless socks changed daily 1

Caution

• Do not soak feet in footbaths as they can induce skin maceration 1
• Avoid applying moisturizers between toes where excess moisture can promote fungal growth 1
• If cracks don't improve with basic care or if signs of infection develop (increasing pain, warmth, redness, swelling, discharge), seek medical attention promptly

Consistent application of appropriate moisturizers combined with good foot hygiene practices is the cornerstone of managing foot cracks and preventing their recurrence.