Cracked Heels and the PAD Patient

Many people experience the dry condition that leads to cracked heels—especially when it is cold outside or if we have not kept up with our moisturizing regimen. As we age, our skin gets thinner, leaving us more prone to develop calluses. Calluses are thick, dead skin often found on the heels of our feet. It usually develops because of friction or pressure on the skin. When the skin becomes callused, it can lead to cracked heels. 

Our skin is the largest organ in our bodies and is meant to protect us from infection. When there is a skin breakdown, like cracked heels, it can pose a medical danger to patients with PAD or diabetics.

If you have PAD or diabetes, the circulation in your lower extremities tends to be poor. That is why a cracked callused heel can become a gateway to a wound or infection. It is crucial to protect your feet! Keep them clean and protected with appropriate footwear. It is also important to do a daily check on your feet. Make sure that your skin is intact and free from cracks, cuts, or sores. 

Moisturizing is an important part of your daily regimen, as is keeping your feet covered with socks and well-fitting, supportive shoes. Visit a podiatrist to be fitted with orthotics for foot support and maintain necessary care of your feet, especially if you have diabetes or PAD.

If you develop ulcers or sores, a consultation with an experienced PAD expert like Dr. David Nabi at NewportVascular.com can collaborate with your podiatrist or primary care physician (PCP) to ensure that the blood remains flowing to your extremities. A visit to a vascular surgeon can prevent catastrophic complications that may occur from skin breakdowns, such as infections, gangrene, or limb amputations. 

Having diabetes or PAD means that you must take extra care of your feet and your skin to ensure that you do not develop medical complications. The best treatment is prevention and care, but sometimes even with all that care and attention, you can still develop cracks in your skin. If you experience cracked heels, consult your doctor and monitor for signs and symptoms of infection, like redness, pain, skin discoloration, pus, or swelling.

If you are experiencing any of these signs of infection or are in pain, report it immediately to your doctor