Generally, occur as a result of dry skin on the feet. This is often accompanied by hyperkeratosis (thickened skin) and callus formation around the edges of the heel, which is yellow or dark brown in colour.

This skin thickening is often part of the skin's normal protection against rubbing, pressure and other forms of local irritation.

When weight is applied to the fat pad in the heel, it expands sideways and creates fissures in the skin, which has become less elastic and more prone to cracking due to decreased moisture. Initially, small fissures can appear over the surface of the heel or callus and these may become larger and deeper resulting in pain and bleeding. 

Regular visits to FHP for special care of feet will prevent cracks from accruing in the first place.