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Foot Calluses: Prevention and Treatment Tips

Whether you’re an avid runner, a dedicated dancer, or someone always on the move, chances are you’ve encountered pesky patches of thickened skin on your feet. Foot calluses, while often considered a minor inconvenience, can stem from and influence our daily routines, footwear choices, and overall foot health.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the various causes behind these bothersome patches of thickened skin, explore proactive strategies to keep them at bay and equip you with effective treatments to ensure your feet stay pampered and callus-free. So, take a step forward on the path to happy, healthy feet!

First, we’ll explore preventative measures and treatment methods for those trying to curb the skin condition.

Foot calluses prevention

Foot Calluses

Wear proper footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Avoid high heels and shoes that squeeze or rub against your feet excessively.

Cushioning insoles: Consider using cushioned insoles or gel pads inside your shoes to reduce pressure on specific areas of the feet.

Moisturize regularly: Keep your feet moisturized to prevent dry skin, which can lead to callus formation. Apply a good quality foot cream or lotion daily, especially after bathing.

Girl smears cream dry feet covered with cracks
Girl smears moisturizing cream dry feet covered with cracks

Choose socks wisely: Opt for moisture-wicking socks that help keep your feet dry. Change socks regularly, especially if your feet tend to sweat a lot.

Avoid going barefoot: Protect your feet from excessive friction by wearing shoes or slippers, especially when walking on rough surfaces.

Regular foot exfoliation: Gently exfoliate your feet with a pumice stone or foot scrub to remove dead skin and prevent calluses from building up.

Annual foot assessment: Why not prevent foot calluses as part of an annual foot assessment? A skilled chiropodist conducts a foot assessment and checks for foot pain and skin conditions. They can also recommend footwear, diagnose conditions, and provide general hygiene tips.

Foot calluses treatment

Medical pedicure: A medical pedicure includes foot callus treatment. A medical pedicure is therapeutic (without nail polish) performed by a qualified foot specialist. Rather than an aesthetic service, consider a medical pedicure service a comprehensive full-service maintenance package.

Callus debridement during medical pedicure

Soak your feet: Soaking your feet in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes can help soften calluses, making them easier to remove.

Use a pumice stone: Supplement a foot soak with a pumice stone or foot file to rub the callused areas. Take a stone or file and rub it in a circular motion gently. Just be cautious not to remove too much skin at once. Ask a foot specialist to treat the callus for you when in doubt.

Moisturize: After exfoliating, moisturize the foot cream or lotion to keep the skin soft and prevent further callus formation.

Protect with bandages: If the callus is causing discomfort or pain, you can protect it with non-medicated felt pads or moleskin.

Avoid cutting calluses: Never attempt to cut off calluses with scissors or blades, as this can lead to infection and other complications.

Salicylic acid products: Over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid can help soften and remove calluses.

Orthotic devices: Consider using orthotics or shoe inserts to redistribute pressure and alleviate callus formation.

Regular footwear inspection: Check your shoes for signs of wear and replace them when necessary. Worn-out shoes can contribute to calluses.

Foot Calluses

Consultation: Consult a foot specialist if the calluses are severe, painful, or not responding to home treatments. They can safely remove the callus and provide further advice on managing foot health.

Treat foot calluses at Feet First Clinic

Remember, foot calluses are your body’s way of protecting itself, but if they become painful or bothersome, it’s essential to address them to avoid further complications. For more information, or to book an appointment with us, call us at (416) 769-3338 or book an appointment online via our form below.

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Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)

If you’ve been to the clinic before, chances are you had the pleasure of meeting Carolina! Carolina’s daily goal is going above and beyond to make sure patients are always completely satisfied. Having worked in the podiatry industry for 22 years, Carolina brings a wealth of knowledge pertaining to client service, insurance policies, and procedures. She steers the ship to make sure everything runs smoothly on the daily. Carolina is known for spicing up every outfit with her signature costume jewellery.