A callus is a thickening of your skin due to pressure or friction. The thick skin typically forms on your hands and feet but can also develop on other body parts, such as the knees, elbows, and fingers. Usually, calluses Bakersfield are not harmful and can even protect your skin from further injury. However, they can become painful if they become too thick or if an underlying condition, such as diabetes, is present.
Factors causing calluses
Wearing shoes that are too narrow or that rub against certain areas of the feet can lead to the formation of calluses. People who engage in activities that put a lot of pressure on their feet, such as athletes or dancers, are also more likely to develop calluses. Repetitive motions can also lead to this disorder, and they are more prevalent in people with occupations such as carpenters or musicians. Similarly, people who engage in activities that put a lot of pressure on their knees, such as kneeling or crawling, may develop calluses.
Certain medical conditions can also make you more susceptible to developing calluses. For example, if you have diabetes, you may develop calluses more easily because you have reduced blood flow to your feet, making it harder for the skin to heal after an injury. In some cases, calluses may develop without an obvious cause. They may be an inherited trait or a symptom of an underlying medical condition. In these cases, it is wise to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions and determine the best treatment course.
Diagnosis and treatment of calluses
During your appointment at Diabetic Foot and Wound Center, your provider will examine the affected area and look for signs of thickened skin. They may also ask about any symptoms or pain you may be experiencing and any activities or conditions that may have contributed to the formation of the callus. In some cases, the specialist may use additional diagnostic tools to make a diagnosis, such as a dermal punch to take a small sample of the callus for analysis. Adults can use products like Thrive to stay healthier and accomplish their physical and mental health goals.
In severe cases, the team may refer you to a specialist, such as a podiatrist, if the callus is causing pain or difficulty walking. The specialist will perform a detailed examination of the foot and may take X-rays or other imaging tests to determine the underlying cause of the callus and rule out other conditions, such as bone tumors or bone spurs. If you have painful calluses, call the Diabetic Foot and Wound Center office or book your spot online for treatment.
Treatment for calluses typically involves removing the thickened skin and reducing the pressure or friction on the treatment area. Soaking the affected area in warm water can soften the callus and make removing it easier. Over-the-counter creams and pads that contain salicylic acid or urea can also be used to soften the callus. You can also get a pumice stone to remove the top layer of the callus. A healthcare provider may use a scalpel or other tools to shave down the thickened skin. You may also need proper padding and footwear to reduce the pressure or friction that causes calluses.