Callousing/Hard Skin
Definition
The formation of callousing is caused by an accumulation of dead
skin cells that harden and thicken over an area of the foot. This
callous formation is the body's defense mechanism to protect the
foot against excessive pressure and friction. Callousing is normally
found on the ball-of-the-foot, the heel, and/or the inside of
the big toe. |
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Some callouses have a deep seated core known as
a nucleation. This particular type of callous can be especially painful
to pressure. This condition is often referred to as Intractable Plantar Keratosis.
Cause
Callousing develops because of excessive pressure at a specific area
of the foot. Some common causes of callous formation are high-heeled
dress shoes, shoes that are too small, obesity, abnormalities in the
gait cycle (walking motion), flat feet, high arched feet, bony prominences,
and the loss of the fat pad on the bottom of the foot.
Treatment and Prevention
Many people try to alleviate the pain caused by callouses by cutting
or trimming them with a razor blade or knife. This is not the way
to properly treat callouses. This is very dangerous and can worsen
the condition resulting in unnecessary injuries. Diabetics especially
should never try this type of treatment.
To relieve the excessive pressure that leads to
callous formation, weight should be redistributed equally with the
use of a foot orthotic. An effective foot orthotic transfers pressure away
from the "hot spots" or high pressured areas to allow the
callous to heal. The foot orthotic should be made with materials that absorb
shock and shear (friction) forces. Women should also steer away from
wearing high-heeled shoes.
As always, surgery should be the very last resort.
If the problem persists, give us a call at Ortho-Tech for further treatment options (416) 441-9122.
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