Calluses are thickened areas of the skin. They develop most often on the balls and heels of the feet and on the hands.

Causes

Skin buildup is the result of excessive friction or pressure against the surface of the skin. As pressure mounts, dead skin cells accumulate, and the skin thickens. After a blister heals, calluses may form at the site -- perhaps the body's way of protecting the area against further injury.

Shoes that fit improperly are often the cause of calluses on the feet. Calluses on the hands also result from pressure or friction; even holding a pencil too tightly can result in callused fingers. Those who wear high heels are also prone to calluses because of the increased pressure the shoes exert on the balls of the feet.

Flat-footed people have a greater incidence of calluses. The small bones in the front of the foot are forced downward against the skin when the individual walks, resulting in calluses.

Symptoms

Calluses vary in size and shape depending on where they grow and how much skin is affected. Sometimes, calluses grow so thick that the skin becomes inflexible and cracks.

When pressure is relieved, calluses usually produce no pain. However, continued irritation, especially involving areas where the skin is split, can cause discomfort that interferes with physical activities.

Treatment

Immediate treatment involves removal of the pressure that caused the callus in the first place. Extremely persistent or painful calluses should be examined by a doctor. In rare instances, surgery may be necessary to alleviate intense pressure. In milder cases, calluses can often be eased by padding the exposed area to reduce further friction.

There are over-the-counter remedies that soften the callused tissue, making it easier to remove. Salicylic acid plasters, which are sold in medicated sheets, can be placed over the callus after bathing and secured with tape. (The pad should be removed just before the next bath so that the softened skin can be gently removed with a pumice stone.)

These home remedies should not be used by people who have diabetes, atherosclerosis, or other disorders affecting circulation. They should consult their doctor before attempting to remove calluses because of the high risk of infection.



This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.