Calluses

If you’ve developed calluses (hardened skin) and you’d like them safely removed, turn to Gaston Mike Liu LLC in Commack, New York. Board-certified podiatrist Gaston Liu, DPM, can remove calluses on your feet to smooth your skin or eliminate discomfort. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.

What are calluses?

Calluses are thickened areas of the skin that can develop on your feet because of repeated friction or pressure. Calluses commonly appear on the bottom of the feet, especially on the heels, toes, or balls of the feet, where skin often thickens to protect itself from stress.

Calluses aren’t usually painful. They vary in shape and size and are similar to (but often larger, wider, and flatter than) corns. While not a cause for concern, Dr. Liu can remove uncomfortable, irritated, cracked, or unsightly calluses. 

What are the symptoms of calluses?

Symptoms of calluses include:

• Hardened, thickened skin
• Yellowish areas of skin
• Flaky, rough, or dry skin
• Cracked skin
• Mild tenderness when you apply pressure

Corns are similar, but often smaller and deeper. They may contain a hard center with swollen surrounding skin. 

What can cause calluses?

Common causes of calluses include:

• Flat feet
• High arches
• Repeated friction or pressure on your feet
• Poor-fitting shoes
• High-impact activities like sports or running
• Standing, running, or walking for long periods
• Physically demanding job
• Going barefoot
• Improper posture 
• Wearing shoes without socks
• Foot abnormalities
• Bunions
• Hammertoes 

Calluses are common among athletes. They’re not a cause for concern. Wearing comfortable shoes that fit well may reduce the risk of developing calluses. 

How are calluses diagnosed?

Dr. Liu can diagnose calluses by reviewing your symptoms, discussing your lifestyle, and examining your feet. He determines if hardened skin is a corn, callus, wart, or something else and offers treatment recommendations. 

How are calluses treated?

Your personalized treatment plan for calluses may include:

• Watchful waiting (no immediate treatment)
• Reducing pressure on the area
• Changing your shoes
• Routine skin care
• Custom orthotics (shoe inserts)
• Protective padding
• Addressing the underlying cause
• Callus removal

It’s helpful to keep your skin moisturized to reduce the risk of your callus cracking and becoming uncomfortable. 

See Dr. Liu if you have a callus that bleeds, cracks, is painful, continues to thicken, or if you have diabetes or circulation problems in addition to a callus. Follow up with him to ensure an effective outcome, or if you develop new foot or ankle concerns.

Schedule a callus evaluation at Gaston Mike Liu LLC by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.