Foot calluses can be an unsightly and uncomfortable problem for many people. They occur when the skin on the feet becomes thick and hard as a result of repeated friction or pressure.

Calluses can make walking painful and can also lead to complications such as infections and ulcers. Fortunately, there are many ways to eliminate foot calluses and enjoy soft, smooth skin on your feet.

What are foot calluses?

Foot calluses are areas of thickened, hardened skin that develop on the feet in response to repeated pressure or friction. They usually appear on the soles of the feet or the heels.

Calluses are a natural response of the skin to protect itself from injury. However, if they become too thick or are in areas that are subjected to a lot of pressure, they can become painful and may even lead to complications such as infections.

Causes of foot calluses

There are several common causes of foot calluses:.

Wearing shoes that are too tight or too loose
Standing or walking for long periods of time
Going barefoot or wearing sandals or flip-flops
Playing certain sports that put a lot of pressure on the feet such as running or tennis
Being overweight or obese
Having a foot deformity such as a hammer toe or bunion

Symptoms of foot calluses

The main symptom of foot calluses is the thick, hard skin that develops on the feet. However, calluses can also cause other symptoms such as:.

Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
A raised bump on the skin
Cracks or fissures in the skin
A yellow or grayish tint to the skin

Preventing foot calluses

There are several things you can do to prevent foot calluses from developing in the first place:.

Wear properly fitting shoes that provide plenty of support
Choose shoes that have a wider toe box and plenty of cushioning
Avoid going barefoot or wearing sandals or flip-flops for extended periods
Use a pumice stone or foot file to smooth rough skin regularly
Keep your feet clean and dry

Treating foot calluses

If you already have foot calluses, there are several treatments that can help to eliminate them:.

Soak your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften the skin
Use a pumice stone or foot file to gently remove the thickened skin
Apply a moisturizing cream or lotion to the affected area to keep the skin soft and supple
Wear shoes that provide plenty of support and cushioning to prevent the calluses from returning
If the callus is very large or painful, see a podiatrist who can remove it using a scalpel

Conclusion

Foot calluses can be a painful and unsightly problem, but they are also a common one.

By taking steps to prevent them from developing and treating them when they do occur, you can enjoy soft, smooth skin on your feet and eliminate any discomfort or pain.