Calluses are areas of thickened and roughened skin that appear due to constant pressure or friction. They usually form on the feet: under the toes, on the heels, on the pads. Calluses themselves are not dangerous, but they can cause pain, discomfort, and become the cause of more serious problems.
Calluses are dry corns without a clear core. The skin at the point of pressure thickens, becomes rough and hard. Unlike wet corns, calluses do not contain fluid.
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Uncomfortable shoes | Tight, narrow, or rigid shoes squeeze the foot |
| High heels | Redistribute the load to the front part of the foot |
| Flatfoot | Improper distribution of body weight |
| Excess weight | Increases pressure on the feet |
| Extended walking or standing | Constant friction and pressure |
| Foot deformities | Bony protuberances, bunions, curvature of fingers |
| Diabetes mellitus | Disorder of blood circulation and sensitivity |
| Age-related changes | The skin loses elasticity, becomes dry |
| Type | Characteristics | Localization |
|---|---|---|
| Soft callus | Soft, wet corn between the toes | Interdigital spaces |
| Hard callus | Compact dry corn without a core | Heels, pads of the feet |
| Core corn | Has a hard core going deep | Sole, fingers |
| Corn with cracks | Dry skin with deep cracks | Heels |
The main signs of calluses: thickening of the skin, change in color, pain when walking, burning, redness around the affected area. In advanced cases, cracks and bleeding appear.
If a callus becomes infected, swelling, pus, and increased temperature may appear. In this case, you need to seek medical attention urgently.
| Method | Description | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Softening baths | Warm water with baking soda or sea salt | Supplementary method |
| Pumice and file | Delicate removal of hardened skin | For superficial calluses |
| Keratolytic ointments | Preparations with salicylic acid or urea | High |
| Callus plasters | Medicinal plasters with acid | Medium |
| Orthopedic insoles | Redistribute the load on the foot | Prevention and treatment |
| Instrumental treatment | Removal by a podiatrist | High |
| Surgical treatment | Removal of core corn | For complex cases |
It is not allowed to cut calluses with a knife or blade. This can lead to infection. It is not recommended to use aggressive chemical agents without consulting a doctor. Do not ignore pain and continue to wear uncomfortable shoes.
People with diabetes mellitus should not engage in self-treatment. Any injury to the foot can lead to serious complications.
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Correct shoes | Comfortable, properly sized, with a soft sole |
| Orthopedic insoles | Support of the arch of the foot |
| Care for the skin | Regular moisturizing with cream |
| Foot hygiene | Washing, drying, removing hardened skin |
| Weight control | Reducing the load on the feet |
| Breaks during standing work | Change of position, warming up |
| Socks made of natural materials | Cotton, bamboo, wool |
You should see a doctor if a callus is painful, bleeding, cracking, or does not heal after home treatment. It is also important to seek medical attention if you have diabetes, impaired blood circulation, or signs of infection.
The doctor may refer to a dermatologist, orthopedist, or podiatrist. The specialist will determine the cause and prescribe the correct treatment.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I remove a callus at home | Only superficial, carefully, after softening |
| Does pumice help | Yes, but only for the upper layer of skin |
| Do I need to see a doctor | Yes, if the pain does not go away or there is diabetes |
| Can I wear open shoes | Yes, if they do not rub |
| Do calluses come back | Yes, without eliminating the cause |
Calluses are a common problem that requires attention. The main thing is to eliminate the cause: change shoes, use insoles, take care of the skin. When pain and complications occur, you need to see a specialist.
Prevention is easier than treatment. Correct shoes, hygiene, and control of the load on the feet help prevent the appearance of calluses.
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