What is Callus?
Callus is a thickened, hardened area of skin that typically forms on the feet due to repeated pressure or friction. It is the body’s natural response to protect the skin from damage. Calluses are generally painless but can become uncomfortable if they grow too thick or if they are located in an area that experiences a lot of pressure.
Common Causes:
Calluses on the feet can develop for several reasons, including:
- Ill-fitting shoes: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause friction, leading to the formation of calluses.
- Excessive pressure: Standing or walking for long periods can put pressure on specific areas of the feet, encouraging callus development.
- Abnormal gait or posture: Walking in a way that puts additional stress on one part of the foot can contribute to callus formation.
- Repetitive activities: Activities like running, hiking, or dancing, where the feet are subjected to constant motion and pressure, can lead to calluses.
- Deformities in the feet: Conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet can cause uneven pressure distribution and lead to calluses.
- Loss of protective fat pad in the feet: As we age, our bodies experience a natural decline in musculoskeletal conditioning, partly due to a decrease in collagen and connective tissue, leading to reduced flexibility, increased brittleness, and potential joint problems. This can expose some of the bones underneath the feet to increased pressure from the ground
- Dry skin: Can be a predisposing factor to callus formation
Signs and Symptoms:
- Thick, hard, dry ,or rough patches of skin, often yellowish in colour.
- Common areas for calluses are the heels, ball of the foot, or the sides of toes.
- While calluses are generally painless, they can cause discomfort if they become too thick or are pressed on by footwear.
Managing Callus at Home:
- Proper Fitting Footwear: Wear shoes that fit properly, with sufficient padding and support to reduce pressure on the feet. Avoid narrow or high-heeled shoes that may contribute to callus formation.
- Foot Soaks: Soaking your feet in warm water for 10–15 minutes can soften the skin and make it easier to remove calluses. You can add Epsom salts to the water for added relief.
- Exfoliation: After soaking, gently rub the callused area with a pumice stone, foot file, or exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin. Be sure to do this gently to avoid injury.
- Moisturising: After exfoliating, apply a rich foot cream or lotion to keep the skin soft and hydrated. Products with urea or salicylic acid can help soften thick calluses over time.
- Treatment: If the callus becomes painful, very thick, or infected, seek professional help from a podiatrist who can remove the callus safely and provide ongoing management if needed.
When to See a Podiatrist:
- If the callus becomes painful, very thick, red, or inflamed, indicating possible infection.
- If there are any signs of infection such as warmth, pus, or increased swelling.
- If the callus is associated with an underlying condition, like diabetes or poor circulation. These conditions can place the feet at risk to more vulnerable to complications.
Conclusion:
While calluses on the feet are generally harmless, they can cause discomfort and, in some cases, can lead to more serious foot problems if not managed properly. Regular foot care, proper footwear, and seeking professional treatment by a podiatrist, when necessary, can help keep your feet healthy and pain-free. If you have concerns or persistent pain, don't hesitate to consult with a podiatrist.
Suffering from calluses? Contact Silverstream Podiatry on +64 4 528 7650 to book an appointment and get back on your feet today!