DESCRIPTION

Calluses may be a symptom of some underlying problem which exists in the ball of the foot such as bone spurs or abnormal bony growth. The normal foot can carry our weight comfortably, without the formation of calluses and pain. When a callus occurs, it signifies a change may be occurring in our bony structure. We have five metatarsals (the long bones of our feet to which our toes connect), and they each carry a portion of our body weight as we walk. When one or more metatarsals carry more weight then they are supposed to, the skin under these bones becomes thick, hard, and painful. This increased loading may be due to an abnormal foot shape, over-pronation, or under-pronation. Callusing sometimes occurs as we age and lose the normal fatty tissue that protects the bony prominences of the foot.

TREATMENT

To provide relief from callus pain, the abnormal weight the callused area is carrying must be reduced and re-directed to the rest of the foot. The easiest way to accomplish this goal is with the use of Custom-Made Orthotics. Custom orthotics can both control any abnormal foot motion which is occurring and relieve weight bearing from the painful callus. If you do not have custom orthotics then at least attempt to use an “off the shelf” type of insole for added cushioning. It is often helpful to make a cut-out in the insole directly under the painful callus. Addition of a metatarsal pad placed just proximal to the callus is sometimes helpful. If the calluses are severe enough and very thick you may need to see a podiatrist to trim them down. Wear shoes with a low heel (about 3/4 to 1 inch high). Wear shoes with thick, well padded innersoles and outer soles, such as walking shoes. Even bedroom slippers should be well padded. Do not walk bare foot. Protect the bottoms of your feet with good shoes. Use a pumice stone to regularly file down painful calluses. Do not cut or trim them. If you are a diabetic or have poor circulation, check with your family doctor before treating your calluses. When a callus first develops, file it with an emery board, sandpaper or a pumice stone after bathing, and apply petroleum jelly, lanolin or other moisturizers to the skin. Do not cut or trim them. If you are a diabetic or have poor circulation, check with your family doctor before treating your calluses. If a thicker callus has formed, use a peeling and softening agent such as Ultramide 25 lotion. Don't let calluses get too big; they can crack and become infected. To reduce friction when you run, wear thicker socks, such as Thor-Los, which have extra padding in high-friction areas. Watch for blisters that may occur next to thick calluses and treat them appropriately.