Homeopathic Healing for a Cracked Heel

Cracked heels are uncomfortable and unattractive. Fortunately, homeopathic healing allows you to treat cracked heels without worrying about prescriptions. With patience and a disciplined treatment regimen, you could notice a dramatic difference in as little as two weeks.

Moisturize Your Heels

• A common cause of cracked heels is dry skin. According to Epodiatry.com, some people have drier skin than others, making them more susceptible to cracked heels. There are several homeopathic treatments for dry skin, and many are effective for cracked heels. Covering the heels with olive oil before bed and sleeping in socks is particularly effective, according to Home-remedies-for-you.com. You can also use shortening or petroleum jelly. Warm water soaks are also recommended. Make a homemade moisturizing cream by mixing 1 tsp. of petroleum jelly with the juice of one lemon. Apply before going to bed at night. A moisturizing regimen requires consistency and repetition, but with diligence you are bound to see results within a few weeks.

Choice of Footwear

• Epodiatry.com offers a helpful analogy to understand what may be causing cracked heels: "Consider a tomato on the bench ... when you push on it from above, it wants to expand out sideways ... eventually the skin cracks." In other words, if you are on your feet a lot and do not wear supportive footwear, the problem will only be exacerbated. If you are walking or standing for an extended amount of time, wear supportive shoes with backs.

Hygiene

• Although cracked heels are not necessarily caused by poor hygiene, it certainly will not hurt to pay special attention to foot care if you have cracked heels. According to Healthmad.com's online article, "Get Rid of Cracked Heels for Good," cracked heels put you at greater risk for fungal developments. Wash your feet daily. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society recommends getting a basic pedicure every eight weeks.

Correcting Vitamin Deficiency

• As noted at Home-remedies-for-you.com, cracked heels can be worsened by vitamin deficiencies, particularly zinc and omega-3 fatty acids. Vitamin E, calcium and iron are also important vitamins and minerals for those with cracked heels.

Warning

• Do not use scissors or other objects to cut off dry skin, particularly if you have large cracks or "fissures" in your heels. This could cause infection and worsen the condition.