A callus is a thick layer of the skin usually formed on the toes when the skin layer is subjected to repeated pressure. Corns and calluses can be prevented by keeping the toes in good condition and by wearing proper well fitting shoes.
Normally callus does not require any treatment since most of them are harmless. In case you are diabetic, then having a callus may increase the complication and hence you need to take treatment.
Callus Symptoms
A callus is characterized by the thickened skin or roughening of the outer layer of the skin. It may look as a tiny raised bump or lesion. Sometimes it may cause discomfort and mild pain when applied pressure. Callus is seen generally on the soles of the feet under the heels and sometimes on your palms or fingers. When compared with corns, callus is large in size and corns can cause pain.
Callus Causes
The major reason for getting calluses in your toes or fingers is wearing ill fitting shoes. When the outer skin layer is subjected to repeated pressure it gets thick and develops into a callus. You should not wear shoes that are very tight since they compress the heel area every time you walk.
Similarly wearing loose fitting shoes can cause the skin layer to rub with the shoe very often giving rise to inflammation. Some people whose job demands working with hand tools throughout the day like carpenter and gardener can get calluses on their palms and fingers since the area of the skin is under constant pressure. It is better to wear protective gloves on the hands when your job warrants such work.
Diagnoses
Your doctor can easily detect callus on physical examination of the skin. If required, he may do an X-ray on the affected part for detecting any physical anomaly.
Callus Treatment
- It is enough if you remove the pressure causing agent from the skin for removing callus. Wearing proper fitting shoes will eventually remove callus from your toes or heels. You can also use protective pads on the feet for resolving it. In case of pain, you can take anti-inflammatory medications available over the counter.
- Your doctor would gradually trim the callus using a scalpel gently for reducing the discomfort or pain. He would apply salicylic acid on the affected area for removing the dead skin tissue. To avoid any infection, you can take antibiotic medicines or ointment.
- In case if the foot’s shape has been badly damaged due to callus, then surgery is done for correcting the bone alignment. Alternatively shoe inserts can also be used to prevent callus from recurring.
Pictures of Callus :
Images, Pics, Pictures, and Photos of Callus
Callus Home Remedies
People who are diabetic should not try any of this home treatment. It is better for them to consult doctor to avoid any complications. Soaking the feet in lukewarm water for 10-20 minutes daily will provide good flexibility of the skin and reduce the thickening gradually.
You can use padding on the affected feet for reducing inflammation. In case you are using salicylic acid, take care since it can irritate your skin. Try using pumice stone on the affected area to remove dead cells of the skin. Always wear shoes of right size that are comfortable for you.