What should you know about Calluses?

Calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that develop when the skin tries to protect itself against friction and pressure. Your skin will develop a thick rough patch first and then become a hardened bump which can vary in size. It may become tender or painful to touch and your skin may be flaky or dry.

If you have an underlying foot problem such as a hammertoe, bunion, or plantar flexed metatarsals, that can increase the risk of developing calluses. An underlying foot problem puts constant pressure and friction on the foot which will lead to the callus returning.

Although calluses most often occur on the feet, they can also develop on your hands, elbows, and/or knees. In the event that you develop a callus, here are your options to treat your callus at home:

• Wear footwear that fits properly

• Wear socks that fit well

• Use products such as toe separators, felt pads, non-medicated pads or bandages over affected area

• Use a foot moisturizer

• Use a pumice stone or a filer to remove hard skin on your feet

• keep your feet clean and use a scrub brush to remove any excess skin

If none of these recommendations help you address your calluses or your foot health worsens, we recommend speaking with one of our podiatrists at River Podiatry. Set up an appointment today to speak with our team of trusted foot health professionals.