What causes rough, dry, thick, peeling skin on the heels? best ways to treat/prevent and make the skin soft again?

Heel treatment: Soak your feet in warm water for about 10 minutes three evenings a week, then use a callus file to remove some of the dry skin. Pat dry, then rub in a thick moisturizer cream (like Eucerin Advanced Repair Creme or similar) and wear cotton socks to hold the cream in place while you sleep. Make sure that your shoes fit well and avoid walking barefoot. See a podiatrist if your symptoms continue.

See below: You may apply an emollient like Vaseline at night to soften the thick skin. Scrape of the layers with a heel scrapper/scrubber available at drug stores, in the morning. You will need to do this on an ongoing basis. For additional treatment you may consult this site: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/495745 For good health - Have a diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, milk and milk products, nuts, beans, legumes, lentils and small amounts of lean meats. Avoid saturated fats. Drink enough water daily, so that your urine is mostly colorless. Exercise at least 150 minutes/week and increase the intensity of exercise gradually. Do not use tobacco, alcohol, weed or street drugs in any form. Practice safe sex.