Calluses are a normal occurrence. These rough patches of thickened skin develop on feet because of friction. They have an increased chance of developing if you wear shoes that don’t fit properly or if you do a lot of walking.
In most cases, calluses aren’t painful, and if friction is resolved in the affected area, they may go away on their own. However, there are some instances when medical care can be necessary.
In this blog, Kyle Durfey, DPM, and Brian Hiapo, DPM, of Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center explain what calluses are and when you may need to get treatment for them.
Foot calluses are fairly similar to corns in that they develop as a result of repeated friction in a certain area of the foot. The difference is that corns are usually rounded, have hardened centers, are painful when pressed, and develop on parts of the feet that don’t bear weight.
Calluses, on the other hand, usually develop in places where the foot is under pressure, such as from body weight. Furthermore, calluses are usually larger than corns, are irregularly shaped, and don’t hurt when pressed.
Calluses can often be treated at home by soaking the affected foot in warm water and then using a pumice stone to gently buff away the thickened skin. However, there are some cases when calluses may require medical attention.
If your callus is painful or swollen, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center. It could be a sign that the callus is infected.
Beyond painful calluses, there are a few types of people who should always visit us when they get calluses, because certain conditions can make skin changes problematic. If you develop a callus, you should make an appointment if you have any of the following conditions:
At Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center, we can treat your callus and also help you avoid future calluses. For example, if a footwear issue is the cause, we can guide you on wearing the right shoes or suggest orthotics if needed.
If you have any callus pain or a health condition that could make your callus a problem for you, come to us for the foot care you need. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center today.
