When Should You Seek Treatment for Calluses?

Calluses can occur due to several factors, including tight shoes and socks, foot deformity, or a circulation problem. Although anyone can have calluses, the condition can worsen if you have diabetes. You should seek treatment for calluses Bakersfield if they are painful and inflamed.

While treatment principles for calluses are the same, people with diabetes require a highly individualized plan to address their needs.

Who is at risk of getting calluses?

You risk getting calluses if you wear ill-fitting shoes and stand for long periods. A callus is a thickened layer of skin that usually occurs on your hands or feet due to friction.

Treatment options

Your treatment plan will depend on your medical history and the severity of your symptoms. The following are treatment methods that your doctor might recommend.

Changing your footwear

Since tight shoes and socks can significantly cause calluses, your doctor will highly recommend that you wear well-fitting shoes that allow your feet and toes to move freely. If you wear pointed shoes, consider replacing them with rounded shoe wear to avoid squeezing the ball of your feet. Choosing low-heeled shoes over high heels is also a good idea.

Custom-made orthotics

Your doctor might suggest custom-made orthotics if you have foot structural problems like flat feet or high arches. They will help absorb pressure and stabilize your foot when you walk or stand. They are also beneficial if you stand long hours, especially at work. Your doctor will recommend custom-made orthotics over generic orthotics because generic ones might not provide your foot with the necessary support.

Trimming away excess skin

To remove the thick layer of calluses, you can use a nail file or pumice stone after softening the affected skin. While the strategy is simple, your doctor recommends extra caution to avoid damaging your tissues. However, doctors discourage trimming excess skin if you have diabetes to avoid hurting yourself and risking an infection.

Padding to protect your feet      

You can protect your feet, especially the ball of your foot, by adding extra padding to your shoes. Most footwear can have hard inner soles, which might inflame the ball of your foot. You can buy extra padding to support your foot to prevent pain and inflammation. You can combine shoe padding with wearing a well-fitting shoe to take the pressure off the balls of your feet.

Using callus removing medication

Although the medication comes with instructions, your doctor will guide you on how to use it. First, you will soak your feet in warm water for a few minutes to soften your calluses. Next, dry the treatment area and use a pumice stone or nail file to remove the thickened layer. Afterward, apply the medication and wash your hands when done.

Whether you have diabetes or not, if your calluses are inflamed, visit Diabetic Foot & Wound Center for treatment. The podiatry team at the center will provide innovative therapies to treat your condition and prevent a recurrence. Call or book your appointment at Diabetic Foot and Wound Center online today and alleviate your symptoms.