Do you regularly get special callus treatments from the nail salon? Do you purchase foot masks from the store? Most people do because they don’t like the appearance of calluses, but today we’re going to discuss whether or not it’s beneficial to remove them from your feet.
What are Calluses?
To put it simply, calluses are hardened thick layers of the skin that develop when your skin tries to protect itself from pressure or and friction. They often develop on the bottom of the feet and on hands where we tend to grip and hold things. Calluses should be painless, unlike corns, and should not require removal unless they are causing other issues.
Do You Need Calluses?
Calluses are actually normal and have some benefits. For starters, they are the body’s natural response to help prevent injuries on the bottom of your feet. They are essentially built-in shoes on your feet! However, people with certain health conditions like diabetes should not let their calluses go untreated. People with nerve damage or poor blood circulation should also have their calluses treated and always refrain from going barefoot.
What Causes Calluses?
Here are a few reasons why you might get calluses:
Bunions
Hammertoe
Foot deformities
Not protecting your feet and hands
You can prevent calluses by wearing proper shoes and seeing a Podiatrist for any existing foot conditions. Overall, calluses are not bad for your feet and don’t require any special treatment unless they start to become painful. People with diabetes or poor circulation should keep an eye on any changes in their feet.
If you are concerned about your calluses and wish to have them checked out, we urge you to book an appointment.