Calluses on the feet are hard, thick areas of skin that usually appear on the tops of the toes or between them.
These injuries usually cause primarily cosmetic discomfort. However, they can also cause pain , especially when pressure is applied to them with shoes.
The cause of their appearance is usually the same. However, there are different types of calluses on the feet.
Although it’s not always necessary to remove them, it’s important to assess why calluses appear on your feet and thus prevent the appearance of new injuries.
Causes of calluses on the feet
Calluses on the feet appear as a response from the body to protect itself from excessive friction and/or pressure in certain areas.
As a result, the body reacts with excessive growth of the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin) and hyperkeratosis occurs . This is the appearance of hard, thick areas (commonly known as “dead skin”).
The most common cause of calluses on toes is pressure and rubbing from shoes. Specifically, shoes that are too narrow and squeeze the toes.
However, there are other factors that contribute to the appearance of this thickened skin on the feet. These include dry skin , the way you walk , and any foot deformities .
Types of calluses on the feet
There are different types of calluses on the feet, the most common being hard calluses.
- Hard calluses
Hard calluses usually appear on the fifth toe (commonly called the ‘ little toe ‘). However, they can also occur on the second and third toes.
- Soft calluses
This type of injury is called interdigital heloma because it occurs between the toes, specifically between the fourth and fifth toes.
These soft calluses are not only distinguished from hard calluses by their location, but also by their appearance.
This type of callus on the feet is round and has a reddened center. It also has a rubbery, milky consistency due to wet feet or excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).
These calluses are popularly called ‘ corn’s eye ‘.
- Vascular and neurovascular calluses
Vascular calluses are very similar to hard calluses. However, they contain blood vessels within them. Neurovascular calluses also contain nerve tissue.
This makes calluses painful and prone to bleeding.
- Plantar calluses
This type of callus on the feet doesn’t appear on the toes, but rather on the soles of the feet. Specifically, at the base of the toes and the heels.
These calluses on the sole have a round, yellowish appearance, and it is important not to confuse them with warts or other lesions.
Corns or calluses?
Corns and calluses on the feet are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same.
Corns are smaller and deeper lesions than calluses. Furthermore, while corns are more common on the toes, calluses usually appear on the soles of the feet.
Calluses on the feet usually appear due to the pressure or friction that shoes exert on the toes or soles.
How to remove calluses from your feet
Foot calluses shouldn’t be removed when they aren’t painful. If you remove the hardened skin, the body will protect itself by creating new calluses, which can worsen the problem.
Therefore, you should not try to remove them with home remedies such as sandpaper, files, or razor blades. You should also not cut calluses with scissors.
If they are bothersome or cause aesthetic discomfort, you should see a podiatrist to assess the best treatment.
For most people, eliminating risk factors and practicing proper foot care is sufficient.
1) Wear comfortable shoes
It’s essential to wear appropriate footwear adapted to the activity you’re performing. This is not only to prevent calluses, but also other injuries such as blisters.
Shoes should have a wide last so that the foot is not squeezed inside.
2) Alternate footwear
It is advisable to change your footwear, as many people wear the same shoes every day for long periods.
This will prevent continuous friction in certain areas of the foot.
3) Wear socks
Socks act as a protective barrier between your skin and your shoe, protecting your feet from chafing and the development of calluses.
However, if socks are the wrong size or worn incorrectly, they can form wrinkles and creases. This can also lead to the formation of calluses on the feet.
4) Use a pumice stone
Pumice stone is a very effective product for removing hard skin areas from your feet.
To use it, it is recommended to soak your feet in warm water for about 15 minutes, keeping the pumice stone submerged.
After this time, and before drying your feet, it is advisable to apply soap to the pumice stone and gently rub the calluses and areas of thick skin.
5) Moisturize the skin of your feet
Dry feet are a risk factor for the formation of calluses on the toes and soles of the feet. Therefore, it’s important to always moisturize them after showering or bathing.
A good foot moisturizer must provide essential lipids that help restore the epidermal barrier.
6) Apply a cream for calluses on your feet
Regular use of a callus cream helps to gradually eliminate them and prevents their appearance.
These products often include ingredients such as urea and glycolic acid, as they are very effective in softening hardened areas and renewing the skin.
It’s important to emphasize that foot pain should always be evaluated by a podiatrist. Therefore, if you have a painful callus, you should always see this specialist so they can make a correct diagnosis and, if necessary, remove it.
At the same time, a biomechanical study of the foot may be indicated to determine the points of greatest pressure when walking and create personalized insoles.
You should also visit a podiatrist if, in addition to calluses, you have other conditions such as bunions or hammer toes.
Foot care in diabetes is extremely important, so always consult your doctor if you experience any injuries.
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