Dry Skin

Dry skin on  the feet can be annoying and painful with associated flaking, cracking (fissures)  inflammation, risk of infection as well as thick/hard skin (callus.) Dry skin on the feet is more of a problem than else where on the body  due to the pressure of walking and synthetic fibres and certain health conditions eg Diabetes. The heels of the feet seem to be the areas most prone to developing painful fissures. Cracked and fissured heels result from a combination of thick calluses around the heel, dryness and footwear.

Causes

• Cold weather exposure
• Indoor heating
• Going without socks
• Using hot water for bathing/ showerinf and frequent bathing/ showering
• Family trait of dry skin
• Excessive weight may be a factor
• Chronic diseases such as diabetes and underactive thyroid
• Slip-on footwear such as flip flops will make heel callus worse
• Biomechanical problems - ie problems with the way we actually walk can lead to overlading and thickening of skin on the feet

Treatment

Self and early treatment can be very effective along with dedication.  Look for products with a percentage of Urea in their formulation as these seem to be the most effective.  Favourites of ours at The Ivy Clinic are Flexitol Heel Balm and the Ureka range.  Apply once a day all over the foot (but not between the toes as this can encourage Athlete's Foot) and pop a pair of socks on for at least a couple of hours afterwards. 

For any further Information contact us at the clinic on 01492 875939

Email - info@ivyclinic.co.uk