Are you someone who has recently noticed that their toes face a lot of friction in their shoes? Have you seen a bump forming as a result? While this can certainly be a jarring experience, the likely reason for this is that a callus is formed. At Great Neck Family Foot Care, we can confirm this diagnosis and offer treatment methods if your calluses limit your quality of life.
Calluses
Common Symptoms
Calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that form after a specific area has been exposed to copious amounts of friction. The feet and toes are two of the most common areas where they can develop. Finding a hardened area of skin can be a stressful experience, which is why we want to point out the most common symptoms of calluses to help put your mind at ease:
- Skin that is thick and rough.
- A hardened raised bump.
- Tenderness or pain under the skin.
- Flaky, dry, or wavy skin.
Prevention Methods
In most cases, calluses won’t interfere in one’s everyday life. However, it’s not uncommon for people to want to avoid them. If you fall into this category, we have a few prevention methods we’re happy to share. The easiest way to prevent the development of calluses include the below:
- Wear shoes that fit correctly and have a complete toe box.
- Consider wearing a protective covering over areas where you suspect a blister is likely to form.
- Remember to wear socks with shoes.
Treatment Options
As previously stated, calluses are rarely an issue that needs medical treatment. However, there are some cases where this needs to take place. If your calluses are diminishing your quality of life, we’ll be there to help. Some of the most effective methods for treating this condition include:
- Trimming away excess skin from the calluses.
- Apply callus removing medication.
- Wearing protective shoe inserts.
- Surgery to remove the growth of hardened skin.
