What is callus?
Calluses are changes in the stratum corneum, most often appearing in the plantar area of the feet, on the toes, and on the inside of the hand. Calluses arise as a result of prolonged friction and pressure, e.g. by elements of poorly fitted shoes or irritation by joints and bones of adjacent fingers.
The callus is a hard yellowish structure, somewhat excessive in relation to the surrounding tissues, insensitive to touch and with "fuzzy" edges. The extent and depth of these hard, compact changes depend on the surface of the irritating stimulus - from very small, several millimeters to those occupying a large part of the sole of the foot.
Calluses are sometimes confused with imprints, which are characterized by the presence of a hard, clearly delimited core. It happens that corns form within the callus.
The most common location of calluses within the feet is the base of the big toe, forefoot and heel. Skin swellings also appear on the dorsal surface of the fingers (at the level of the interphalangeal joints) and on the side of the last toe. Calluses are a very common cause of foot pain, or at least discomfort when walking. A visit to a podiatrist can help you relieve suffering and improve your well-being. A specialist uses sterile tools to remove calluses. The treatment covers only the area of the altered epidermis, so it is completely painless and bloodless. In order to reduce the re-formation of calluses, customers are recommended to systematically use skin care creams that soften and slow down the keratinization of the epidermis of the feet. In addition, it is proposed to wear appropriate insoles or orthoses conducive to the correct positioning of the foot, as well as change the footwear to comfortable, non-compressive shoes.
treatment
People suffering from hard calluses on the feet often try to remove the problem on their own by using highly softening products available in pharmacies and drugstores. Unfortunately, both the changed and healthy skin are often macerated (softened), which is then uncontrolled torn or torn off. Such mycoses can increase the pain, usually lead to cuts, and thus additionally increase the risk of bacterial, viral or fungal infections. Regular visits to the podiatrist (every 2-4 weeks), choosing the right footwear and systematic home care give a real chance to get rid of the problem of painful calluses or at least significantly reduce the discomfort and improve the appearance of the feet.
Removal of calluses at the podiatrist
usually takes place during first treatment. However, with its help it is not possible to eliminate further hyperkeratosis. Therefore, in order to remove calluses permanently, it is necessary to understand and cure the causes of their formation. One of the methods of removing calluses in a podiatry office is the use of a CO2 surgical laser. In the case of calluses, proper foot care is also important. The best solution is to report to a podiatry.