Calluses on your feet aren’t simply uncomfortable inconveniences – they could actually be a sign of a more serious issue. Without proper foot care, calluses can cause other problems. Thankfully, by knowing what they are, how to avoid them, and when to see a foot doctor, you can protect your health. 

A Primer on Calluses 

What Are They?

Also known as hyperkeratosis, calluses are thickenings of dead skin cells due to rubbing and irritation, typically from footwear. It’s a process the body stimulates as a way to protect itself from those pressures. However, over time and without proper foot care, they can lead to much more serious issues such as corns, decreased sensitivity, and reduced mobility.

What Causes Them? 

Excessive pressure on the foot typically comes from poorly fitting shoes. However, it’s not always the shoe’s fault. Deformities, bony prominences, and abnormal gaits are all common reasons that a shoe might rub against a portion of your foot, causing friction.

How Can They Be Avoided? 

The first and easiest way to avoid calluses is to make sure you’re wearing shoes that are supportive and fit properly. They must be neither too tight nor too loose, allowing enough room to wiggle your toes. Orthotics and shoe inserts can also be very helpful, as these allow for the redistribution of weight equally, allowing high-pressure areas to heal.

To avoid calluses caused by an abnormal gait, you may want to begin some exercises that practice proper biomechanics. These will help to stabilize and strengthen your feet, as well as provide proper leg movement. A foot doctor or physical therapist can offer guidance. 

What Treatments Are Available? 

If calluses become especially painful or uncomfortable, it may be time to visit a foot care specialist or podiatrist. These professionals can conduct a thorough analysis of the specific cause of your condition and develop a unique treatment plan. This may include some of the above-mentioned solutions, such as orthotics and proper gait exercise, as well as pain medications or even surgeries in more severe cases.

If your feet are causing you pain and discomfort, let the caring and professional staff of Westside Podiatry Group do what they do best. With over 50 years of experience, the doctors at their Rochester, NY, office will set you up with a personalized plan that meets your foot care needs. Give them a call today at (585) 225-2290, or visit their website for more information.