Calluses are hardened areas of skin that develop due to repeated friction, pressure, or irritation. Associate Professor Tuğba Falay Gür specializes in understanding the causes of calluses, providing effective treatment options, and developing preventive strategies to improve patients’ quality of life.
Causes
Several factors contribute to the development of calluses:
- Friction and Pressure: Wearing ill-fitting shoes, hard-soled footwear, or performing repetitive movements can lead to friction and pressure on the skin.
- Foot Structure: Individuals with flat feet or high arches are at a higher risk of developing calluses.
- Occupation: Professions that require prolonged standing or repetitive hand use often result in calluses.
- Exercise: Intense physical activities can cause friction on the skin, leading to calluses.
- Age: As skin loses elasticity with age, the risk of developing calluses increases.
- Skin Type: People with dry and rough skin are more prone to callus formation.
Symptoms
Calluses typically present with the following symptoms:
- Thickened Skin: Hardened and thickened areas of skin, often on the soles, heels, or toes.
- Red or Black Spots: Redness around the calluses or black dots at the center of the callus.
- Pain: Discomfort or pain when walking or applying pressure on the affected area.
- Flaking: Peeling or flaking skin around the callused area.
- Crusty Surface: Rough and crusty patches of skin.
Treatment Options
There are several methods to treat calluses:
- Callus Files: Using callus files or pumice stones to soften hardened skin and reduce thickening.
- Moisturizing Creams: Regular application of moisturizers to hydrate the skin.
- Protective Pads and Insoles: Using protective pads or special insoles inside shoes to reduce friction and pressure.
- Orthotic Devices: Custom orthotics or shoe inserts to redistribute pressure points.
- Surgical Removal: Severe cases may require surgical removal of the callus.
- Professional Treatment: Treatments by dermatologists or podiatrists for effective management of calluses.
Prevention and Care
The following measures can help prevent calluses:
- Proper Footwear: Choose comfortable, well-fitting shoes with suitable soles.
- Moisturization: Regularly moisturize feet to keep the skin soft.
- Protective Devices: Use shoe cushions or insoles to minimize friction and pressure.
- Walking and Exercise Techniques: Adopting proper walking and exercise techniques to reduce skin friction.
- Regular Foot Care: Clean and care for feet regularly, trim sharp edges, and maintain skin health.
- Protective Gloves: Use gloves to protect hands in jobs requiring manual labor.
Skin Care and Lifestyle
Effective management of calluses involves proper skin care and a healthy lifestyle:
- Gentle Cleansers: Use gentle cleansers instead of harsh soaps to avoid skin irritation.
- Moisturization: Regularly hydrate the skin to maintain its barrier and prevent calluses.
- Balanced Nutrition: A diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants supports skin health.
- Regular Exercise: Consistent physical activity improves circulation and supports foot health.
- Routine Foot Care: Regularly check and care for feet to prevent calluses.
- Reduce Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: These substances negatively impact overall health and weaken skin resilience.
Appointments and Contact
For more information about calluses and expert advice, contact us using the provided details. Benefit from Associate Professor Tuğba Falay Gür’s expertise to eliminate bothersome calluses and maintain foot health.
