Cracked feet, also known as chapped feet or heel
fissures are linear cuts which appear on the feet.
They give the feet a crack-like look and are most
prevalent at the heels. They can cause pain when
they cut deep into the skin. Cracked feet is very
common during the harmattan season.
Causes of cracked feet.
Old age.
Dehydration.
Cold or dry weather.
Extremely hot weather.
Lack of moisture in the skin.
Excessive hot shower or bath.
Skin conditions like eczema.
Medical conditions like diabetes.
Use of strong non-moisturizing soaps
Excessive standing or walking.
Excessively tight footwear.
Symptom of cracked feet.
The major symptom of cracked feet is a "crack-
like" appearance on the feet. The skin feels flaky
and peels. It sometimes has a rash which is caused
by the itching.
Prevention of cracked feet.
Wear socks and shoes in cold or dry weather.
Drink enough water so as to stay hydrated.
Avoid excessive standing or walking.
Avoid tight footwear and stockings so as to
allow thwarting feet to "breathe".
Avoid alcoholic drinks and caffeine as they
dehydrate the body.
Treatment of cracked feet.
1. Soak your feet in soapy water for twenty
minutes. After that, remove the dead skin (which
would have become white and loose) by scrubbing
gently with sponge or stone. Then, rinse feet in
clean water and dry with a towel. Apply moisturizer
or petroleum jelly and wear clean cotton socks.
Leave overnight.
2. Soak the affected foot (or feet) in lemon juice
or mixture of lemon and water for some minutes.
Then scrub lightly and apply moisturizer or
petroleum jelly and leave overnight.
3. Blend overripe banana or ripe pawpaw to form
a thick paste. Apply paste on feet and leave for
fifteen minutes. Rinse off and dry with a clean
towel.
4. Apply olive oil on cracked areas and rub softly
for about five minutes. Wear clean cotton socks
and wash off after one hour.
5. Apply vegetable oil on feet after bathing and
put on thick stockings . Leave overnight and
remove the next morning.
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