How to Treat a Callus

Foot Callus

You have a thickened, hard, rough, yellowish patch of skin on the bottom of your foot. This is a callus and can be treated with self-help measures. A callus is different from a corn. A corn is a small bump of thickened skin on the top of one of your toes.

Instructions

1. 

   The biggest difference between a corn and a callus is the location and size. Corns are small and round and are located on the top of the toe joints and between the toes. Calluses on the other hand, are larger and flatter and can be found on the bottom of your foot. They can also be found on any part of the body that is subjected to repeated pressure and friction. For example, calluses can be found on the balls of your feet, palms of your hands, and on your knees. Both corns and calluses are formed because your body is trying to protect itself from this pressure and friction. Corns and calluses are very common and rarely cause serious problems.

2. If your corn or callus is NOT causing you discomfort, no action is required. However, if it is bothering you, there are several measures you can take. These will be explained in the following steps....

3. Wear only comfortable footwear that fits you properly. Your feet tend to get larger in width as you get older so make sure you check your shoe size on a annual basis. This means having a professional measure your feet.

4. Soak the affected area in warm, soapy water everyday for at least 5 minutes. Then use a callus file and gently rub away the outer layer of thickening skin. You can also do this with a rough towel if you do not have a callus file.

5. Many foot specialists warn against the use of over the counter, acid based corn and callus removers, because they can cause infection. Please use caution if you decide to use one!

6. Ointments containing salicyclic acid should not be applied to the affected area.

7. Apply a doughnut-shaped piece of felt or moleskin to the corn or callus for relief.