What treatments relieve painful heel cracks?

Abstract

Emollient cream may alleviate pain and dryness and improve the appearance of heel cracks (strength of recommendation [SOR]: B, one small randomized trial). Foot soaks followed by mechanical debridement and topical petrolatum may decrease the depth of cracks and thickness of calluses in patients with leprosy (SOR: C, 1 small cohort study). Keratolytic agents, such as salicylic acid, may reduce hyperkeratosis, cracks, and pain (SOR: C, one case-control study). Cyanoacrylate tissue adhesives, such as Superglue or Krazy Glue, may reduce pain and speed closure of heel cracks (SOR: C, one case series). Maintenance therapy with emollients and appropriate footwear also may help heel cracks (SOR: C, expert opinion).