Calluses occur when an area of your skin undergoes constant pressure. Hard thickened skin (callus) forms around the affected area. It’s our body’s natural response to protect the skin from breaking. You’ll most likely find calluses on your palms, feet, knees, and toes. Exercise, ill-fitting shoes, and physical labour are the leading causes of calluses.
Though calluses may look intense, they are actually harmless. If calluses have formed, you won’t need to seek urgent treatment. However, there are ways you can break down calluses for aesthetic purposes.
What’s The Difference Between Corns And Calluses?
While corns and calluses look similar, the two are distinctly different. For one, calluses are typically larger and shaped differently. Also, calluses tend to form on the soles or balls of the feet where corns are usually found on the toes.
Corns can be quite painful, especially when walking or standing. Calluses on the other hand protect the feet from pain and irritation. Though calluses are considered unsightly, they can actually protect your feet broken and irritated skin.
Both corns and calluses don’t typically require emergency treatment, though serious cases may need medical attention.
Who Is More Prone To Develop Calluses?
Almost anyone can develop a callus, especially if they are physically active. People who go to the gym or lift weights regularly will most likely develop calluses on their palms. Also, anyone who wears tight-fitting shoes or high-heels are prone to developing calluses on their feet.
Other pre-existing foot conditions – such as bunions or hammertoe – can also increase the chances of developing calluses. Wearing protective gloves and footwear are your best bet at preventing calluses from forming.
How To Treat Thick Calluses At Home
Treating calluses at home is surprisingly simple. There are many over the counter products you can buy to reduce the hard thickened skin on your feet or hands.
One of the most effective home remedies for calluses is soaking them in lukewarm water for about five to ten minutes. What this does is soften the skin, making it easier to scrape the area with a filer or pumice stone.
Make sure you’re using a moisturizing lotion daily to prevent your skin from cracking. Cracked skin can be painful, especially when walking around all day. Many over the counter topical creams contain salicylic acid, which is the chemical that is used to treat warts. Though this solution is effective, applying too much salicylic acid can cause irritation.
It’s important that you don’t try to remove all of the thickened skin at once. Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to removing calluses. Removing too much skin at once can lead to further complications like infections or discomfort. A podiatrist can help remove your calluses safely.
When Should You See A Doctor?
Most of the time, you won’t need to see a doctor for a callus. But some cases could develop into something serious and require immediate medical attention. If you’ve noticed your callus has become unbearably painful or infected, you should see a doctor right away.
People with diabetes should monitor their calluses closely as they could lead to something more series – such as foot ulcers. Diabetes is a condition that cuts off blood supply to the feet and can lead to life-threatening problems.
Keeping a close eye on your feet is the best way to play it safe when dealing with calluses. If they don’t cause any pain and don’t seem to be infected, you probably don’t need to see a doctor.
Heavenly Foot Care Can Keep Your Feet Callus Free!
Do you need your calluses removed? Heavenly Foot Care can help! Our mobile podiatry service is perfect for patients who want a safe and effective way to remove calluses. Call us today at (905) 931-9965 or email sherri@heavenlyfootcare.ca to schedule an appointment.