If you’re looking for methods to get rid of calluses on your heels, balls of your feet, or toes, you’re in the right place. Calluses are unsightly patches of rough skin that develop on your feet and can cause discomfort and possibly embarrassment. Thankfully, there are some at-home treatment options that you can try to eliminate these dry, uncomfortable patches. Our Springfield, VA, podiatrist explains more here.
What Causes Calluses?
Calluses are your body’s natural response to friction and pressure on your feet. The skin will thicken in the spots that frequently have pressure exerted on them and continue to thicken over time, leaving multiple layers of dead skin cells that form a callus. For example, if you wear high heels every day, pressure is exerted on the ball of your foot, and you may eventually develop a callus there. Calluses may be uncomfortable and even painful if it becomes large.
At-Home Treatments
Begin with soaking your feet every night in warm water and Epsom salt. This mixture feels good on your feet and will soften the skin, making it easier to slough off. Another method is a baking soda paste — make a paste out of water and baking soda, apply it to your feet, and put socks on. This will exfoliate your feet overnight.
After the callus is softened, you can use a callus remover or pumice stone and gently remove the layers of dead skin. You’ll be left with smooth, soft feet!
Other Treatment Options
If you aren’t able to resolve your calluses at home, please contact our podiatrist. It’s possible that they are simply too large or thick to handle on your own. This is especially important if you have diabetes — it’s easy to go too deep when using a callus remover or exfoliant and you can cause sores or ulcers this way. Come to our office for corn or callus removal if you have any doubts!
Contact Our Springfield, VA, Podiatrist Today To Find Out More!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other podiatry-related topics, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center by clicking here or by calling 301-232-3764.
