Hard Skin

(Callus)

INTRODUCTION

Callus occurs due to hyperkeratosis. Hyperkeratosis is the thickening of the skin due to pressure. Callus can occur over bony prominence, on the ball of the foot or on the heel. Callus often occur due to prolonged standing and may result in chronic pain.

 

APPERANCE

• Callus normally appear as yellow or dark brown discolored skin.

Above is a picture of a callus on the sole of the foot.

 

SYMPTOMS

• Pain on weight bearing, relieved by rest.
• A hard growth of skin, usually on the ball of the foot.
• Increase discomfort in thin soled shoes or high heeled shoes.

 

CAUSES

• Prolonged standing
• Obesity
• High heeled shoes
• Surgery to the lower extremities.
• Bunions
• Mal-aligment of the metatarsal bones (the bone structure of the sole of the foot)
• Flat Feet and high arched feet
• Abnormalities of gait (walking)

 

WHAT YOU CAN DO

• Apply a moisturizing cream twice daily.
• Use pumice stone to reduce the thickness of the hard skin.
• Avoid high heeled shoes or thin soled shoes
• Buy shoes with a good shock absorbing sole

Dr Foot Recommends

 

Silicone Metatarsal pad at £13, Free postage and packaging

WHAT NOT TO DO

• Never try to pare down the hard skin your self with a razor blade or a pair of scissors.

 

WHAT THE CHIROPODIST WILL DO

• Debride (pare down) the callus with a scalpel, this will not be painful for the patient.
• Apply pads to relieve pressure from the lesion.
• Recommend appropriate shoes
• Prescribe insoles to correct a gait abnormality (walking abnormality).

 

OTHER CONDITIONS WHICH RESEMBLE CALLUS

• Verrucae
• Tumor of the skin.

 

AS ALWAYS SEEK ADVICE FROM A STATE REGISTERED CHIROPODIST.

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