What Are Calluses?

Calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that develop in response to repeated pressure or friction. They most commonly form on the feet, especially the heels, soles, and areas of high contact such as the ball of the foot. While calluses are generally not harmful, they can become painful, lead to complications, and affect your mobility if left untreated.

What Causes Calluses?

Calluses form as a protective response by the body to repeated pressure or friction. Common causes include:

• Ill-Fitting Footwear – Tight or loose shoes can cause excess friction, leading to callus formation.
• High-Impact Activities – Runners, dancers, and athletes who place repeated pressure on their feet are prone to calluses.
• Walking Barefoot – Regularly walking barefoot or in shoes without adequate cushioning can cause calluses to develop.
• Certain Foot Structures – People with flat feet, high arches, or bunions may develop calluses due to uneven weight distribution.
• Medical Conditions – Conditions such as diabetes or poor circulation can increase the risk of thickened skin and foot-related complications.

Symptoms of Calluses

Calluses are easy to identify by their appearance. They typically present as:

• Thick, rough skin
• A hardened, raised bump
• A yellowish or grayish color
• Decreased skin sensitivity in the affected area
• Pain or tenderness when walking or standing (in severe cases)

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

While calluses are generally not a serious issue, you should seek professional care at Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists if:

• Your calluses cause pain or discomfort when walking.
• You have diabetes or circulatory issues, increasing the risk of infection.
• The callus becomes inflamed, swollen, or infected.
• Home treatments, such as pumice stones or moisturizers, are not effective.

Treatment Options for Calluses

At Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC, we offer personalized treatment options, including:

• Professional Callus Removal – Using a sterile instrument, our podiatrist can carefully remove thickened skin.
• Custom Orthotics – Prescription shoe inserts can help reduce pressure and prevent callus formation.
• Padding and Footwear Recommendations – We recommend well-fitted, cushioned shoes to prevent excess friction.
• Medicated Creams – Prescription-strength moisturizers containing urea or salicylic acid can help soften calluses.
• Diabetic Foot Care – For patients with diabetes, we provide specialized foot care to prevent complications.

Preventing Calluses

Preventing calluses involves reducing friction and pressure on the feet. Here are some expert-recommended tips:

• Wear properly fitted shoes that provide support and cushioning.
• Use gel inserts or custom orthotics to evenly distribute pressure.
• Keep feet moisturized to prevent excessive dryness and thickening of the skin.
• Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
• Exfoliate regularly with a pumice stone to prevent calluses from becoming too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Calluses

1. Are calluses the same as corns?
No, while both calluses and corns are caused by friction, corns are smaller, more painful, and typically have a hard center. Corns usually develop on non-weight-bearing parts of the foot, like the tops of toes.

2. Can I remove a callus at home?
Mild calluses can be softened with warm soaks, exfoliated with a pumice stone, and treated with moisturizer. However, never cut or shave a callus at home, as this can lead to infection or injury. If a callus becomes painful, professional treatment is recommended.

3. What happens if I ignore a callus?
While many calluses are harmless, neglecting them can lead to pain, cracking, infections, and even ulcers, especially for individuals with diabetes or circulation issues.

4. How long does it take for a callus to go away?
With proper treatment and footwear changes, a callus can soften and reduce in size within a few weeks. However, if the underlying cause (friction or pressure) is not addressed, calluses will likely return.

5. Can calluses be a sign of an underlying foot problem?
Yes, persistent or severe calluses may indicate structural foot issues, such as flat feet, high arches, or gait abnormalities. A podiatrist can assess your foot health and recommend corrective treatments, such as orthotics.

6. Do diabetics need special care for calluses?
Absolutely. Diabetic patients are at a higher risk of developing foot ulcers and infections due to poor circulation and nerve damage. If you have diabetes, schedule regular foot exams at Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC to prevent complications.

Expert Foot Care in Fort Worth, TX
If you're dealing with painful or recurring calluses, let the experts at Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC provide the best care for your feet. Our team offers comprehensive foot and ankle treatments to keep you comfortable and active.

Visit us at: 800 8th Ave. Suite #336, Fort Worth, TX 76104
Call us today at: (817) 887-9884

Your foot health is our priority — schedule an appointment today!

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