Callus Treatment, Symptoms, Prevention and Causes
What is a callus?
The formation of a callus is caused by an accumulation of dead skin cells that harden and thicken over an area of the foot.
Why do calluses form?
This formation is the body's defense mechanism to protect the foot against excessive friction or pressure. Calluses are normally found on the ball-of-the-foot, the heel, and/or the inside of the big toe.
Symptoms
What are the symptoms of callus?
- Thick and hardened skin on feet and toes
- May be flaky and dry skin
- Areas of rubbing or pressure on the feet, between or on the sides of toes.
Causes
What are the causes of callus?
Calluses develop because of excessive pressure at a specific area of the foot. Some common causes of this formation are:
- high-heeled dress shoes
- shoes that are too small
- obesity
- abnormalities in the gait cycle (walking motion)
- flat feet
- high arched feet
- bony prominences
- loss of the fat pad on the bottom of the foot
Prevention
How do I prevent callus?
Calluses can usually be prevented by avoiding friction-causing activities. Most importantly, wearing shoes that fit properly, are activity appropriate, and are kept in good repair.
Soles and heels that wear unevenly may indicate a need for corrective footwear or special insoles. Socks and stockings should not cramp the toes. Women should also steer away from wearing high-heeled shoes.
Treatment
How do you treat callus?
Usually, preventing friction and a change in shoe gear is the first treatment needed. Calluses do not usually require medical attention, unless the person suffers from the following:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Poor circulation
- Other problems that make self-care difficult.
Treatment should begin as soon as an abnormality appears. The first step is to identify and eliminate the source of pressure. Placing moleskin or felt pads over calluses can relieve pressure. It is important to see a doctor if a callus persists.
Visco-GEL® Silicone Moleskin Protective Padding (#P805-E)
Pedi-Smart® Heel Hugs™ (#P68)
FELTastic® Corn Protectors (#P15-E)
FELTastic® Callus Protectors (#P16-E)
Warning
We hope these suggestions improve your health and make you more comfortable. However, if you have any concerns about our advice, if any symptom persists for an unreasonable amount of time or if your condition worsens after self-treatment, we encourage you to consult a medical professional for further assistance. Please note, people with diabetes and poor circulation should always consult a medical professional before performing any self-treatment.