Things that can make cracked heels worse include:

Standing for long periods

Walking barefoot or in sandals with an open back
Taking long, hot showers
Using harsh soaps that dry out your skin
Wearing shoes that don’t fit or don’t support your heels
Dry weather, like cold temperatures or low humidity

In case you don’t moisturize your feet often, they might dry out even more quickly.

5. Can Foot Problems Indicate Heart Disease?

Yes, foot problems can be a sign of heart disease. Issues like foot pain, swelling, or burning sensations can be linked to poor circulation, which is often caused by cardiovascular conditions such as peripheral arterial disease or high blood pressure.

These conditions reduce blood flow to the feet, causing discomfort, numbness, and even non-healing ulcers. In addition, symptoms like burning, swelling, or abnormal coloring in the feet can suggest underlying heart, kidney, or circulatory problems. It’s important to consult a podiatrist if you experience these signs, as they could be early indicators of heart disease or related health issues.

6. How Does Diabetes Affect Your Feet?

Diabetes can infuence your feet in a few ways. High blood sugar can result in nerve damage, leading to tingling, pain, or even loss of feeling in your feet. Without feeling, you may not notice small injuries like blisters or cuts, which can get infected. Also, diabetes can reduce blood flow to your feet, making it hard for infections or wounds to heal. This can cause serious problems, like gangrene, which may need amputation.

In order to keep your feet healthy, check them every day, wash and dry them well, wear proper shoes, and visit a podiatrist regularly. Managing your blood sugar is also key to preventing foot issues. Those with diabetes need to be extra careful with their feet. Diabetes affects around 1 in 10 Americans, and most people with it—about 60% to 70%—end up having nerve problems.

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