Calluses

Why do I get calluses on my feet?

• During any activity the feet are under stress and trauma, largely because of poorly designed and fitted shoes, and the inherent problem of a dynamic foot in a static shoe. The body’s response to the repetitive pressure and shear forces between certain areas of the dynamic foot and static shoe is to create calluses to protect the skin from the repetitive pressure and shear forces occurring.
   
• Anomalies of the feet create unusual pressure points that contribute to the formation of calluses (for example, hammertoes expose the skin on the top of the toes to pressure and friction that results in calluses, and bunions also expose the skin to pressure and rubbing in the protruding area).
   
• Risk of calluses increases with participation in vigorous activities, such as running, tennis, basketball, hiking and other activities.

• The Integrated Fitting Solution™ (consisting of Thorlos engineered padded socks, an insert or orthotic as necessary, and properly designed and fitted shoes or boots) is the only clinically proven method to date that provides proactive protection against calluses and corns:
  • The Thorlos engineered padded sock component of the Integrated Fitting Solution is the only clinically proven engineered sock that, when fitted properly using the ICS method, to date provides proactive protection against calluses and corns. The acrylic fibers provide moisture wicking properties that help maintain an optimal environment (warm and moist) for the skin of the feet (not too wet, but also not too dry). Thorlos also help prevent blisters, which often precede the formation of calluses.  Thorlos are made with  proprietary THORLON® acrylic yarn and yarn blends that are designed to cushion and protect the feet, and are the only sock product clinically proven to provide proactive protection against pressure and shear forces, and to provide pain reduction. Click here to visit the Institute for Preventive Foot Health web site and read more about the peer reviewed published medical research conducted with Thorlos engineered padded socks.
     
  • Inserts that provide cushioning and proper arch support help reduce stress on the feet to reduce the possibility of abnormal pressure points and overstress in areas where calluses may form. In serious cases of diabetic neuropathy where people are at high risk of ulceration, custom orthotics may be necessary to help prevent calluses and damage to the skin of the feet.
     
  • Properly designed and fitted shoes or boots will have few seams and raised areas that can cause pressure points or rub the skin and cause calluses to form.
     
  • As always, proper fitting of the three components, as a system, of the Integrated Fitting Solution helps assure minimal pressure, friction and shear on the feet.
     
• Check the feet at least a few times a week to see if any red or rough areas have formed. If there is indication of unusual or severe pressure points, consider getting fitted with a new Integrated Fitting Solution.
   
• Do not try to cut or remove a callus on your own. Gentle paring with a pumice stone or an emery board may help reduce the callus if it is enlarged.  PEOPLE WITH DIABETES, NEUROPATHY OR CIRCULATION ISSUES SHOULD NEVER TRY TO CUT, FILE OR DEBRIDE A CALLUS.  INSTEAD, THEY SHOULD SEE A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL SUCH AS A PODIATRIST, DERMATOLOGIST OR OTHER PHYSICIAN.

What are the dangers of calluses? 

• Corns and calluses typically are not a serious issue; however, they can precede ulceration in people with diabetic neuropathy or other forms of neuropathy and insensitivity in the feet.
   
• Calluses may also be the result of other more serious issues like foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or of improper weight bearing in walking or running gait. In such cases it is advisable to see a DPM or your physician.

Remember, ALWAYS consult your physician if you have soreness, pain, redness, swelling or other indications of problems in any area of your feet that persist for more than a few days, particularly if you have invested in a properly fitted Thorlos Integrated Fitting Solution.  If your feet do not feel better, Thorlos offers a money back guarantee on all engineered padded sock products (the guarantee does not cover shoes and inserts).

Read more about calluses and corns here:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001232.htm