Calluses are thickenings of the skin in areas where pressure is applied. This thickening is actually a protective measure the skin takes.
Calluses appear as hard, painful or painless localized thickenings of the skin on the hands or feet. Calluses can also be smaller, softer, and more painful between the toes; these are called soft calluses.
Calluses most commonly appear on the outer surface of the five toes (the smallest toe), the tops of the toes, the bony metatarsals on the soles of the feet, and the heel. Soft calluses most commonly appear between the four and five toes.
Causes of calluses:
• Wearing shoes that pinch your feet
• Orthopedic structural disorders in the feet and toes
• Bone spurs on the bones of the foot
• High heels and pointed shoes put pressure on the feet
Calluses can be extremely painful. They can interfere with daily life and work. Furthermore, in diabetics, those with circulatory problems, and the elderly, they can become infected and develop deep wounds. Therefore, caution is advised.
TREATMENT
The most important aspect of callus treatment is eliminating the cause: wearing appropriate and comfortable shoes is crucial; any orthopedic problems should be corrected; insoles and cushions, callus protection rings and covers, and toe pads can be helpful. In baths, the callus area should be filed with a callus file or pumice stone, and softening creams and oils should be used after bathing. Lotions and plasters containing salicylic acid and lactic acid can be used to remove calluses. For resistant or deep calluses that do not heal with routine methods, electrocauterization is used.
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