HOW TO DEAL WITH FISSURES

Fissures are cracks or splits in the skin that occur at weight-bearing areas secondary to tensile stress. These cracks can be bothersome or unsightly and when too deep, pressure when walking or standing can be painful. Heel fissures first begin with the growth of callus (thickened, dry and hard skin) around the margin of the heels, leading to small visible cracks. If left untreated, these cracks develop deeper as increased pressure is placed on the heels. In extreme cases, the cracks become so deep that they bleed.

Anyone can get cracked heels. Prolonged standing on hard surfaces, open backed footwear and excessive weight can contribute to splitting or cracking of the skin. Other risk factors include hypothyroidism, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and diabetes.

It is important to treat open fissures as they can be a portal for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and cellulitis. Individuals with diabetes mellitus should be particularly careful as fissures can lead to diabetic foot ulcers in those with neuropathy (loss of feeling).

Therefore, performing daily foot checks is crucial to ensure there are no cracks or ulcers present.

If you have cracked heels or notice callus starting to develop, it is recommended you see a podiatrist for safe debridement. This painless process involves using a scalpel to remove the callus around your heels (this should not be tried at home as removing too much skin can increase the risk of infection). Your podiatrist may then use a disposable applications can run on a computer or network. This can help to prevent malicious applications from being installed or executed.

2. Patch applications: Applying security updates to software as soon as they are available. Security updates can fix vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit.

3. Configure Microsoft Office macro settings: Macros are tiny programs that can be embedded in Office docu- ments. They can be used to deliver malware.

4. User application hardening: Configuring user accounts and devices to reduce the risk of unauthorised access or malicious activity.

5. Restrict administrative privileges: Limiting the number of users with administrative privileges on computers and networks.

6. Patch operating systems: Applying security updates to operating systems as soon as they are available. Security updates can fix vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. sanding disc to wear down the fissures further. It is crucial to regularly nourish dry skin with emollients for preventative care. Before application, a pumice stone can be gently rubbed against any callus to remove some of the hard skin. Emollients containing urea help to keep the skin more supple and soft by reducing water loss from the epidermis. This is achieved by slowing down evaporation and retaining water in the skin for longer.

7. Multi-factor authentication: Requiring users to provide two or more pieces of evidence to authenticate themselves when they login to a system. This can help to prevent unauthorised access, even if a password is compromised.

8. Regular backups: This strategy involves regularly backing up important data. This can help to minimise the impact of a data breach or other incident.

Although the Essential Eight doesn’t guarantee absolute protection, it significantly reduces the risk and allows for a swift recovery, making it a crucial part of any cybersecurity strategy. For more information, Google ‘ASD Essential Eight’. If you want more information on how to apply the E8 strategies to your business, give me a call.

Urea also has keratolytic benefits, resulting in soft skin through the promotion of dead skin cell shedding.

Before your cracked heels get worse, see a podiatrist today for assessment, management and advice specifically tailored to you.