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Don’t Let Calluses Slow Your Summer Down!

With the summer here, people are out hiking, playing sports, hitting the beach, and having tons of fun. However, all these activities can cause some wear and tear on your feet. Many people will develop calluses this summer, and that’s no fun. Don’t worry though, we’ll go over everything you need to know about preventing and treating this condition.

WHAT IS A CALLUS?

A callus is a thickened skin. It results from friction or pressure and often can affect the feet. The heels, balls of the foot, and the big toe are all places that are common to form a callus. It can cause irritation and pain. It’s the bone beneath the skin that actually causes the problem as the skin becomes thicker. The nerves can become inflamed and fluid-filled sacs may form underneath the callused area.

WHAT ARE SOME HOME REMEDIES FOR A CALLUS?

First, make sure your shoes fit correctly. If footwear is too narrow or tight, this can cause an unnecessary amount of friction. One of the best things you can do is soak your feet. You can simply use warm soapy water and soak your feet for 30 minutes, 2 or 3 times a week. Even better would be to add three teaspoons of baking soda. This can help soften your skin. Epsom or bath salts are also great to exfoliate rough skin. Afterward, you can use a pumice stone or foot file to work on the callus, just don’t press too hard or it will make it worse.

HOW CAN A PODIATRIST HELP?

A podiatrist can offer several options to treat your callus, such as prescription orthotics.

Prescription orthotics are custom-fitted and molded footwear inserts that fit a patient’s specific foot structure for comfort and support. A podiatrist may prescribe cortisone injections which can provide rapid pain relief and reduce inflammation. Finally, for more severe cases, if the callus is from a bone deformity, surgery may be necessary to correct the bone and lessen the pressure.

Contact a specialist immediately if you find an issue or are experiencing any pain or discomfort. Dr. Ryan L. D’AmicoDr. Donal M. EricksonDr. Keith Sherman, and their staff will help diagnose and treat your foot or ankle. Call Syracuse Podiatry, located in East Syracuse, New York, for more tips and expert advice. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.

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