Calluses can develop on hands, feet, or anywhere there is repeated friction. The common callus usually occurs when there’s been a lot of rubbing against the hands or feet.
Foot calluses typically have a yellowed or grayish coloration and can be unsightly and painful. A plantar callus is found on the bottom of the foot.
The feet typically develop calluses from an improper walking motion or ill-fitting shoes that create unwanted friction as you move. High-heeled shoes, which put added pressure on toes, are one of the worst offenders and the main reason why women are four times more likely to have foot problems than men.
Luckily, calluses are not permanent. By following some of the treatment steps below, you should be callus-free in no time!
Find the Source
When dealing with calluses, it’s important to first find the source of your problem. If this pesky source of friction and aggravation isn’t alleviated, your corns and calluses will not heal, and removal will be followed by recurrence. The best place to start when searching for the source would be your shoes as ill-fitting shoes often do not have enough toe space and constrict the toes together. In some cases, a podiatrist may be called upon to craft a custom-made orthotic in order to get the right fit for those who suffer from chronic calluses.
Soak and Scrub
Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes. As you do this, your skin should start to soften. You may add Epsom salts or other ingredients to your soak, but they’re not necessary. With a back-and-forth motion and moderate pressure, rub a wet pumice stone over the growths, sanding the corns and calluses down, intermittently rinsing to remove pumice stone particles. Do not overly scrub your feet and stop immediately if you begin to feel pain.
Don’t Forget to Dry
After a good soak and scrub, make sure to dry your affected area completely if you’re interested in getting rid of calluses on feet permanently. It is important that you don’t allow it to remain damp. You should always use towel to remove the moisture. You can also apply a topical antibiotic to the area where the callus was and to surrounding skin in order to lower the risk of infection. If you got too close to the skin, use a bandage to protect the wound.
Pineapple
Believe it or not, this tropical fruit can actually be used to treat your calluses. Pineapple peel contains certain enzymes which help in softening corns and calluses and removing them from the skin. You can secure the peel of pineapple using a medicated gauge or a duct tape to the affected area, changing the peel every alternate day.
Warnings
If you have diabetes or circulatory problems in your legs or feet, always see your doctor for corn and callus care. Never cut or pick off a corn or callus as it can lead to painful wounds, scarring and infection.
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The content on this website is for informational purposes only. Do not rely or act upon information from www.DelrayBeachPodiatry.com without seeking professional medical advice. If you live in South Florida and would like a consultation with Dr. Ian Goldbaum, a podiatric physician and surgeon with over 30 years of experience, please see our contact information below:
BOCA/DELRAY
16244 S. Military Trail #290, Delray Beach, FL 33484
561-499-0033
BOYNTON BEACH
8198 Jog Road #100, Boynton Beach, FL 33472
561-499-0033
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