pain and heat emanating from soles of feet, cracks...73yrs

Welcome to e health forum.

Cracked heels are a very common foot problem, often referred to as heel fissures. They are caused by dry skin and made more complicated if the skin around the edge of the heel is thick. They can be painful to stand on and the skin can bleed.

Some people tend to have a naturally dry skin that makes the skin easy to crack. The thickened dry skin (callus) around the heel that is more likely to crack is often due to mechanical factors that increase pressures in that area (eg the way you walk).

Factors that are associated with cracked heels include - long term standing occupations, being overweight or obese, open back on the shoes, medical conditions like diabetes and psoriasis.

Some measures that might help include -
1. Applying an oil based moisturizing cream regularly.
2. Using a pumice stone to reduce the thickness of the hard skin.
3. Avoid open backed or thin soled shoes.
4. Avoid removing hard skin yourself with scizzors or razors, which can cause infections.
5. Using heel pads or cups will prevent the heel fat from expanding sideways.

In case you have severe issues, you might consult with a podiatrist (foot doctor) who can provide proper treatment and advice.