When it comes to callus treatment, over-the-counter products and physician procedures are readily available

Do you like fashionable shoes? Do you tend to wear high heels? Then you probably have a callus or two. Calluses are protective layers of compacted, dead skin cells, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. Calluses usually develop on the balls of the feet. They are caused by repeated friction and pressure from skin rubbing against the foot's bony areas or against ill-fitting shoes. People who perform heavy manual labor may develop calluses on their hands.

The best way to prevent-and treat-calluses is to remove the cause of friction. To prevent a callus from forming on the foot, for example, wear good-fitting shoes. The American Podiatric Medical Association recommends wearing supportive shoes with a wide toe box and low heel. To prevent calluses on the hands, wear work gloves.
Nearly everyone develops a callus at some point in their lives and, in general, calluses are not dangerous. However, people with conditions that lead to poor circulation, such as diabetes, should have regular foot examinations by their doctor. For people with diabetes, callus formation can be followed by skin ulceration, which can be difficult to treat.

Self-help callus treatments

To treat a callus, use an over-the-counter cream, avoiding those creams that include acid preparations. Apply the cream daily. To soften calluses, soak your feet in warm water and towel dry, and then gently remove dead skin with a pumice stone. Calluses on hands can be treated the same way. Never try to remove a callus by cutting it with a sharp instrument, like scissors. People with diabetes should not try any callus treatment without first consulting with their physician.

Over-the-counter and physician callus treatments

Over-the-counter callus treatments include products designed to pad the callus and prevent further pressure. Your pharmacist or physician can recommend a good product. Your physician also can recommend orthotic devices designed to control foot movements within your shoes that lead to callus development. Your physician can surgically or chemically remove bothersome calluses as well. If you have questions about calluses and callus treatment, talk to your physician.

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