Calluses Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Calluses, also known as the health term callus, is a condition characterized by the presence of a thick and hard layer on the skin. This can occur as a skin protection mechanism due to friction or pressure.
Generally, calluses are found on the feet, hands, toes, or fingers. In some cases, reducing the source of friction or pressure at that location can make calluses less.
Symptom
Some of the signs that occur in calluses are:
- Rough and thick surface on the skin
- Hard lumps that surface higher on the skin
- Pain under the skin
- Dry or peeling skin
Calluses are rarely painful. Commonly found on the lower surface of the feet, especially around the heels, on the palms of the hands, or on the knees. The size and shape of calluses also vary greatly.
Reason
Calluses are caused due to pressure and friction due to repetitive actions. Some things that can cause pressure and friction include:
- Using shoes that do not fit. Tight shoes and high heels can put pressure on certain parts of your feet. Conversely, if the shoes are too loose, it is easy for the feet to slip and the surface of the feet is more prone to rubbing against the shoes.
- Not wearing socks. Using shoes without socks can cause more friction between the soles of the feet and the shoes.
- Playing certain musical instruments. Calluses on the hands can be caused by repetitive pressure due to using certain musical instruments, using instruments that require hands, or even writing that presses too hard and too often for a long time.
- Conditions of deformity or anatomical abnormalities in the bones of the foot can also increase the tendency to experience pressure, then become calluses.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of calluses can be determined through a medical interview and physical examination. A physical examination is carried out to rule out other possibilities that cause skin thickening or lumps, such as cysts or warts.
If there are anatomical abnormalities in the feet that are suspected of causing calluses, the doctor may recommend an X-ray examination to confirm these abnormalities.
Treatment
One way to deal with calluses is to avoid the repetitive movements that cause these conditions. This can be overcome by wearing shoes that are the right size, using pads for the feet or patches to protect the feet. Also clean your feet and hands thoroughly, every time you finish doing a type of work.
If calluses persist even though you have taken preventive measures, try these steps:
- Perform the technique of thinning a thick layer of skin. It’s usually safer to have it done by an experienced foot health therapist, medical pedicure specialist, or doctor.
- Drug therapy to remove calluses. Medication for calluses can be prescribed by a doctor. Usually in the form of a topical ointment or lotion that needs to be rubbed firmly on the part that is experiencing calluses.
Prevention
To prevent calluses from occurring, you can make several efforts, such as keeping your hands and feet clean and choosing the right footwear. Also, do the following:
- Dry your feet thoroughly after rinsing them with water and apply a foot moisturizer.
- Use a pumice stone or foot cleanser regularly to thin out thick skin periodically.
- Use footwear with the appropriate size. If possible, limit the use of high-heeled shoes as they increase the pressure on the front of the foot.
- Change socks regularly if your feet sweat a lot.