Cracked heels

If the skin on the heels is particularly dry, it becomes thickened, hard and less flexible. When walking, pressure is put on the heel, causing the skin to stretch and spread out. If the skin is too inflexible to stretch, it will crack. Symptoms include dry, scaly areas of skin and vertical cracks or splits in the heel. In severe cases, the cracks may bleed or become inflamed or infected. Dry skin worsens with age as the skin loses elasticity and moisture.

Bunions

A bunion is a bone deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe. The toe will point inwards and forces the bone to stick out. The cause is unknown but is thought to be linked to family history and wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the condition. 

Heel pain

The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis – inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a tough band of connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot and also acts as a shock absorber. It is often described as a stabbing or aching pain about 4cm forward from the heel, although it can occur anywhere on the underside of the heel. It may be tender to touch and is often worse when walking first thing in the morning or after long periods of rest. Plantar fasciitis usually goes away with time but steps can be taken to ease any discomfort.