What are Calluses?

Calluses are areas of thick, dry and hard skin that form after dead skins cells accumulate on a specific area of the foot. They are usually found on the ball of the foot, over the heel and any area where the bone is close to the skin. When they occur on the toes they are called Corns. Calluses are the body’s defence mechanism against friction and pressure.

In more extreme cases, calluses develop a hardened core referred to as a nucleation. When this develops the callus can become particularly painful when pressure is applied.

Symptoms of Calluses:

If you inspect your feet and find areas of hardened skin – particularly around the ball of the foot, heel or toes then it is likely that you have calluses or corns. These areas will feel rough to touch and will be raised higher than the surrounding skin.

You may find that these areas are painful to touch, walk on or to pull socks or shoes over.

Although they are not a serious health problem, they can become increasing uncomfortable and painful.

Causes of Calluses:

The most common cause of calluses is ill-fitting footwear, high heels or socks with heavy seams that cause unnecessary friction when walking or standing. High-heeled shoes are the most common cause as they tend to pinch the forefront areas of the feet, and put a lot of pressure on the balls of the feet to carry the weight of the body – often for pro-longed periods of time.

Other factors that can lead to the development of calluses and corns are:

• Prolonged standing – this can case feet to swell and increase the pressure and friction felt from footwear
• Obesity – this puts an excessive amount of pressure on the feet to carry a heavier load than it is designed to
• Flat feet – unless you have footwear designed to support the feet in areas where needed, feet can take on pressure in uneven areas and cause friction.
• Arch problems – calluses can occur under the arch if proper support is not given to the area
• Bunions – the joint of the big toe often develops a callus as it protrudes, making it more prone to rubbing and friction.
• Age – as the body ages there is less fatty tissue in the skin which can lead to areas of the foot being more vulnerable to friction as they have less cushioning. 

Relief and Prevention of Calluses:

The best way to prevent or alleviate calluses is to invest in a pair of properly fitted footwear. Select footwear that has a wide toe box, allowing the feet to rest in their natural position. Also make sure that they have adequate shock absorption to lessen the impact pressure felt my venerable areas of the foot such as the ball and the heel.

Other treatments all work around relieving the pressure on the affected area:

• Removal of the hardened skin – this can be performed by your podiatrist
• Moisturise the affected area – re-hydrating creams can be applied to soften the hardened skin
• Corn plasters – these can be placed on the corn to pad the area and relieve pressure
• Limit the amount of time you wear high heels – or switch your footwear to a flat soled, supportive shoe when heels aren’t needed – i.e. on the walking to and from work.
• If your calluses are painful and persistent then you should consult your GP or podiatrist for more advice